The Best Art of 2008
30 award-winning works

Liven Up Your Landscapes
Try a red underpainting.

2009 Workshop Guide
350+ choices for the new year

25th Annual Art Competition
Thirty artists tell the fascinating stories behind the paintings that won top awards in a field of more than 11,000 candidates.

Still Life/Floral
By Candice Russell

Animal/Wildlife
By Tamara Moan

Experimental/Abstract
By Lisa Wurster

Landscape/Intrior
By Deborah Secor

Portrait/Figure
By Paula Theotocatos

Columns and Departments

December 2008 Online
Don't miss our Web extras—what the 2008 judges looked for, how to draw the folds in drapery, and other exclusive online features!

Letters
The story behind our cover, Pontormo's artistry, plus readers' comments on a continuing controversy.

The Artist's Life
Dean Mitchell returns to his old neighborhood; a virtual universe becomes actual, and more.
By Maureen Bloomfield

Exhibitions
Wonderful shows to see in December.
Edited by Holly Davis

Drawing Board
Rendering distinct textures in charcoal is easy with these guidelines.
By Anthony Waichulis

Brushing Up
Add zip to your landscapes with a complementary underpainting.
By Michael Chesley Johnson

2009 Art Competition
All about next year's contest!

Workshop Guide
Looking for the perfect workshop? Check out our 350+ listings.

Speaking of Art
Behind the scenes at the jurying process: An editor tells all.
By Grace Dobush