Book Review: 200 Projects to Strengthen Your Art Skills

I've had this book on my shelf for a few years now, and like clockwork I turn to it every several months or so. It was originally recommended to me by my favorite teacher of all time, my art education professor. 

The book is divided into sections, all equally inspiring. The first module focuses on mark making, the second on color and tone, the third on texture and pattern and the forth on form and space. The last few pages focus on working with specific media. Although there are a few segments which visually demonstrate specific techniques, the large majority of the book provides inspiring images and project ideas rather than step-by-step examples  Being a creative type myself, this is my preference. Typically I'd rather experiment to bring about skills and techniques than be told how to create a piece of art.

I'd recommend this book to teachers and students alike. With a little imagination, many of the ideas can easily be turned into rather creative assignments for a wide range of art levels. A student equipped with a sketchbook could benefit from the examples and ideas in this book. Although it seems to be geared toward high school students, I believe it would be a successful resource for middle school and well as the upper primary grades (with some adaptations). 

I highly recommend at the very least that you request it from your library. However, at $15 on Amazon, it is well worth the investment.

Purchase from amazon: 200-Projects-Strengthen-Your-Skills