by Allison Malafronte

In the Studios of Paris: William Bouguereau and His American Students, by James F. Peck (Philbrook Museum of Art Publications, Tulsa, Oklahoma)

The light, the master, and the student were the principal elements of artist studios in 19th-century Paris, and it was this book’s description of that setting that inspired Linda Dulaney in choosing BACAA’s studio space. Discussing the relationship between master artist Bouguereau and his American students, this book shows how the Parisian ateliers of the late 19th century influenced American art.

The Artist’s Complete Guide to Figure Drawing: A Contemporary Perspective on the Classical Tradition, by Anthony Ryder (Watson-Guptill Publications, New York, New York)

This book, the foundation of BACAA’s curriculum, provides explicit descriptions and accompanying renderings of how to draw the human figure in a classical contemporary fashion. The book is intended to be an in-depth guide for both draftsmen and painters who desire to accurately draw the figure while gaining a better understanding of the human form.

For more information, visit Ryder’s website at www.tonyryder.com.

Classical Drawing Atelier: A Contemporary Guide to Traditional Studio Practice, by Juliette Aristides (Watson-Guptill Publications, New York, New York)

The historical practices of classical ateliers are the focus of this book, as is how this tradition is being incorporated into contemporary drawing practices. The book features work from Old Masters to today’s finest artists, including that of Michelangelo, Rubens, Prud’hon, Jacob Collins, Graydon Parrish, and Anthony Ryder.

Aristides’ new book, Classical Painting Atelier, will be published in 2008. For more information, visit her website at www.aristidesarts.com.

Read the entire feature article on the Bay Area Classical Artist Atelier.

To read more articles like this, check out the fall 2007 issue of Drawing today!