Carlson’s Guide to Landscape Painting – by John F. Carlson – independent book review – non-fiction

Overall, CARLSON’S GUIDE TO LANDSCAPE PAINTING is an extremely useful guide for the budding artist. In fact one art teacher, whom I respect above all others, labels this THE BIBLE for landscape artists. If only I had read this book at the beginning of my painting hobby. I could have spared myself a lot of frustration by taking author (and prominent artist) John F. Carlson‘s (1875-1947) advice (from the very first chapter) and NOT started with watercolor paints. It turns out they are much more difficult to control than any other medium. I awarded the book four stars on Goodreads.

On the plus side, Carlson explains some basic but key concepts, with wonderful supporting diagrams. Concepts like the importance of intentional design and composition, the influence of light on a scene, understanding perspective, and using to advantage the emotional component inherent in each color. He also provides useful and concrete tips on painting some of the more common landscape elements, like trees and clouds. Some information leans a bit heavily toward the scientific, which made it harder for me to digest. But there was so much information I found to be truly valuable.

Now, here comes the big BUT. Originally copyrighted in 1929, CARLSON’S GUIDE TO LANDSCAPE PAINTING certainly does NOT hold up well in its references to artists or use of pronouns. So, understand going in that, throughout the book, ALL artists are male, whether referred to individually or generically. It’s been a long time since I read a book that felt this dated in style and I actually found it detracted from my enjoyment of the book.

Also, there are places where his writing seemed unclear. And I found his chapter on light mostly indecipherable.

I would also have to say the writing is on the stilted and dry side, probably also a reflection of writing norms at the time of its creation. Bottom line: useful information, a bit of a slog to read.

More about the artist, John F. Carlson.

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