Painting into the Light: How to work atmospheric magic with your oil paints

"Painting into the Light" by Jenny Aitken is a captivating guide that delves into the nuances of painting light with oil paints. Aimed at intermediate artists, this book offers a wealth of knowledge on capturing the essence of light in various settings, both indoors and outdoors. Aitken, renowned for her ability to depict light on water, provides detailed instructions on simplifying images, controlling tones, and creating atmospheric depth. The book is not just a technical manual; it’s an invitation to explore the magic of light and its transformative power in art. The layout is designed to impart as much of Aitken's expertise as possible, making it a valuable resource for artists looking to enhance their skills.

I almost didn’t purchase this book, because I’m strictly a watercolorist, but it’s now one of my favorite art books. The information is extensive and applies to all forms of art. I love this book! Thank you, Jenny!

I love this book. The author is an incredible painter and gives great pointers on how to paint looking into light. Her paintings are atmospheric and create such a phenomenon. She is truly a master of light

I was inspired to buy the book having seen Jenny‘s art on Instagram, I was so pleased to see all of the information, ideas and practical ways to create our own art, using her color, palette and techniques. As I said in the title, this is one of my favorite art books, and it allowed me to create this painting of our local marina.

I have lost count of all the art books that I have purchased over the years. This is one of the very best! Each page is filled with Jenny’s gorgeous art and her careful explanations of her color palette, brushes and her very special treatment of light and shadow. Jenny has a wonderful way of sharing her extensive knowledge and special techniques to bring light and life to your art. I wish she would consider recording a companion audio version so I could listen to her easy to understand and helpful lessons and advice on repeat! I believe that I am seeing improvement in my own work already! I have just ordered two more copies to give to friends.

Well written, just enough info to really get dug in

Many great ideas for capturing light. Love this book and find it inspiring.

Great book on understanding how to paint & see the light in a scene & translate to a painting.

Clear instructions, along with the step-by-step photos. Highly recommend it 👍

This is a truely inspirational book with great instructions .

画家の綺麗に整理されたアトリエから 自作した金属のパレットボックス アトリエで描く為の、イーゼルの すぐ上に取り付けられたライト 実際の現場での風景とキャンバスに 描かれた作品の比較、色相環と チタニウムホワイトにペインズ・ グレーをミックスした７段階の 白からグレーのスケールと 実際の現場の持つトーンを 比較する作業、構図、色彩 コントラスト、波の繰り返す リズム、波の構造、海のパース 光と顔､森の風景、水彩画での 描写、静物画の光源とモティーフの セッティングと、構図と制作の プロセス、最後は、港の風景、空 雲の作品と成っている。視点の 移動が上手く構成されて、絵として 重要な構成要素が掲載されている。 勉強に成る本と思う。

I am a big fan of Jenny's work, I own several of her paintings, so I just couldn't wait to get my sticky little hands on this book. My expectations were high and I am here to tell you that I have not been disappointed! :-) One of the nicest features of this book - apart form its beauty - is its clarity. Jenny's warmth comes through as she explains her approach and how to break ideas down, step by step. The book covers a wide range of topics, from understanding different painting mediums to mastering light, composition, colour and contrast, simplification and an introduction to en plein air painting, which can feel very scary. She also shows how creative atmosphere and brush language can create the dramatic impact that's necessary in order to draw the viewer in. Jenny’s explanations are accompanied by stunning visual examples and practical exercises that encourage us to put theory into practice. What sets ‘Painting into the Light’ apart is Jenny’s warmth and straightforward approach. Rather than prescribing rigid rules, Jenny encourages readers to explore their own style and find joy in the process of painting. The book's encouraging tone and supportive guidance feels like having a trusted super talented friend by your side. Whether you're a beginner trying to grasp the basics of colour mixing or an experienced painter seeking to refine your brushwork, ‘’Painting into the Light’ generously breaks down Jenny’s magic and makes it accessible to all. Jenny is truly the queen of light - do yourself a favour and treat yourself to this beautiful book.

This book has good insights and explained about tools to use for plien air painting. Must recommended.