Painting Portraits and Figures in Watercolor

Painting Portraits and Figures in Watercolor by Mary Whyte is a detailed instructional guide for artists who want to paint people with watercolor. This digital edition offers the complete 341-page book in PDF format for instant download after purchase.

Drawing on Whyte’s experience as a painter and teacher, the book presents a practical path from materials and basic techniques to finished portraits and figure compositions. Readers can move through the chapters at their own pace, with clear explanations and visual references.

Book Overview

In Painting Portraits and Figures in Watercolor, Mary Whyte covers the full range of watercolor portraiture and figure painting. The book begins with the reasons to paint people and how to get started, then moves through brushes, paints, paper, palettes, easels, and studio setup.

The following chapters address technique, drawing, proportion, likeness, hands, composition, values, edges, color, light, backgrounds, and the professional life of an artist. Published in 2011 by Watson-Guptill Publications, an imprint of the Crown Publishing Group, this book is intended for artists seeking practical instruction in painting the human subject.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• Clear guidance on materials and tools, including brushes, paints, paper, palettes, and easels.
• Core watercolor techniques such as washes, glazes, textures, gouache, and combining mediums.
• Lessons on drawing, proportion, getting a likeness, hands, and composition.
• Approaches to values, edges, color mixing, color harmony, and light.
• Advice on planning backgrounds and painting people within them.
• Practical chapters on expression, commissions, working with models, children, framing, and life as a professional artist.

Why Painting Portraits and Figures Matters

This book gathers the technical and professional knowledge needed for watercolor portrait and figure painting into a single well-organized volume. It is useful for students, practicing artists, and anyone moving from general watercolor into figurative work.

Mary Whyte’s instructional approach connects core painting principles with the realities of working from models and completing portrait commissions. The book’s structure makes it easy to return to specific topics as skills develop.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This is a digital download, so there is no physical shipping. Access is available immediately after purchase through your account.

The PDF can be viewed on desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices using compatible reading apps and Kindle apps that support PDF files.

FAQ

Is this a digital download?
Yes. After purchase, you will receive instant access to the PDF file.

Will I receive a physical book?
No. This listing is for a digital edition only; no physical copy is shipped.

What formats and devices are supported?
The title is provided as a PDF and works with many reading apps and devices that support PDF, including tablets, smartphones, and computers.

Add this practical watercolor guide to your collection and begin studying portraits and figures with a trusted teacher and artist.