Otherworlds by Tom Kidd

When looking at landscape books this one without a doubt stands out from the rest, be warned though as the medium of choice is oil paints unless you have a grounding in this then you may find the examples a little intimidating. However with that in mind the author has done an excellent job of going through the theories and examples in such a way that is easily followed. The layout of the book is gorgeous and the flashes of Tolkien Tengwar dotted around are a nice little touch.

I would urge the reader to take heed of what is being said in the pages of this tome (and tome it is with almost 200 pages) as the artist gives fantastic advice from how to hold your pencil to sketching multiple examples of the scene you want to paint. Tweaking it here and there with each pass.

The examples that the author encourages you to try out, sketch, and paint are unique as he doesn't necessarily want you to copy him. Instead it is a general work through for the artist to take advice from and learn a good practice to take forward with their ideas. A lists of materials used in each example is also provided which is good so you know what you need to have at hand.

The author goes through what to look for in reference, when using digital colouring, goes through colour theory, creating moods, and composition. There is also sections on creating fantastical animals and plant life, to the point where the author actively encourages you to get out there and paint nature.

Tom Kidd's imagination is fanastic and his skills with oils are breathtaking, this book is all the inspiration you should need to go out and try this lovely medium. Having used oils in the past I can honestly say they are one of the easiest paints to use, very forgiving and great for building layer of detail and textures.

You can find this book at Amazon