Abstracts 50 Inspirational Projects by Rolina van Vliet, softback published by Search Press. ISBN 978-1-84448-715-8, price 12.99 available from www.searchpress.com

You cannot help but like Rolina’s style and artistic creativity. The way she encourages and inspires us all to see what abstract art is and to achieve it ourselves is admirable to say the least. If you do not have any of her other books, this is essential and is still of much use even if, like me, you have the collection. This book covers some of the ground in her other books, but it approaches painting from the angle of what and how shall I paint. Rolina takes varied ‘themes’ and turns them into paintings. There are guide lines to start you off in the right direction and images of the finished painting that will inspire you. I love the ’skies’ study that is also shown on the front cover. This is not a step by step how to paint book but instead a book that will help you to think like a painter, to use your imagination and truly create unique art. Recommended.

How To Paint Abstracts by Dani Humberstone, softback published by Search Press. ISBN 978-1-84448-290-0, price 8.99 from www.searchpress.com

If you want to know how to paint using acrylics – this is the book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed Dani’s style. After an introduction of materials, she launches into the basics of making a good painting including composition, texture and colour. Dani says she wants to help free your creativity and help you find your voice as an abstract painter – I think she does that admirably in this book through four step-by-step demonstrations. These are thorough and easy to follow and use various multi-media techniques. Learn how to paint vibrant, personal abstract paintings. Highly recommended.