Expedition Sketchbook: Inspiration and Skills for Your Artistic Journey

Laura Brouwers, AKA @Cyarine is an artist I wasn't aware of, as my own work is based in traditional media and studio practice but I'm always open and alert (well half-alert) to developments in digital graphics as I've had students who have learned to draw with tablets come to my classes to seek instruction with watercolour or other materials.This beautifully presented little hardback book is a nice inspirational guide offering examples and advice for aspiring digital artists; the work has a vaguely Manga-inspired style to it and although it is based on a digital approach, most of her guidance is just as relevant to anyone working with a pencil and some paints.I have a teenage niece who is very competent (and comfortable) working with digital and this is just the kind of stuff she'd be interested in; Cyarin `s work is figurative and she does lots of character portraits with a slight stylisation – though I was impressed by the examples of her straight portraits.The “Look inside” option and the sample photos above give a very good idea of the books content.A very recommendable little volume for anyone interested in graphics and wishing to explore the possibilities of digital work.

She's there, her art is gaining ground and she is at the beginning of her journey! She wants you to get through that door as well. To get there, she had to tackle style and finding her artistic voice. This can be difficult as I well know. Some artists can switch between styles, and that can be a problem for illustrators. It was refreshing to read the advice from this young woman. She doesn't pretend expertise, and freely admits she has much more to learn. Just how she has come this far. As an older artist, the book is valuable as it cuts through the detritus of years, and takes you back to a simpler and more accessible information that tends to get buried.

Firstly the quality. This is made to last. Good solid cover and high quality pages.Cyarine (laura Brouwers) is not as much teaching us how to draw as inspiring us to develop our own style through some of her own inspiration and drawings.

Love this book so many tips and insight on the artist path!

Got this book for Christmas and I’m 3/4th through it already!It’s a lovely read and the layout is refreshing. I’m intimidated by large walls of text and find it difficult to focus, however I’ve had 0 trouble - straightforward, but pin points essential details and highlights ideas/prompts for future reference.As for the art? Absolutely beautiful. I adore it so much and more helpful to me as my own art is a similar style.Even if you don’t enjoy her artstyle, there is plenty material to develop yours. As she says; it is not a how-to-draw book. It’s to help you push the boat out and explore.A lovely gift for new artists and for experienced artists.

Really enjoyed this book! Laura's art is amazing. It's really nice to read about her journey and her struggles, as well as seeing the process she uses for her art. Definitely recommend this book!

Your browser does not support HTML5 video.  The book is very good quality. Paper, cover, everything, but the content is amazing, tips and lessons that all illustration artist needs to learn. If you wanna improve your work, this is a good purchase that you can do.

This book is not a how to draw in the authors style, more of a guide on getting into drawing and what you can achieve, and it's very good. It's nice and small, printed very well and the advice and tips serve well. Does help that the art is lovely too. It's not for every one, so try and have a look at it first, read reviews.