The American Landscape
The 19th-century Hudson River School painters were gifted at capturing the scope and grandeur of the American wilderness on canvas. Here's how they did it.
By John Elliot

Her Best Painting Yet
Jacqueline Gnott's precise watercolor glazing and intricate detail work result in "domestic" still lifes that are anything but commonplace.
By Jenny Reising

Costume Drama
Using theatrical lighting and elaborate costuming, Gabriela Gonzalez Dellosso never allows her techniques to overshadow the moood in her portraits.
By Lisa Wurster

Ocean Odyssey
A keen understanding of the physics of the sea is the key to painting seductive maritime scenes.
By Kim Weiland

Landscape of the Interior
Enthusiastic abstractionist Brian Rutenberg attempts to possess and internalize the bright and expansive landscapes he paints.
By Katherine Mesch

Special Section: The State of Watercolor
Misperceptions in the art world are keeping the prices of watercolor art down. Learn what you can do to help shake things up.
By Steve Smith

Columns

Brushing Up
Learn how to arrange a large collection of objects with a careful composition to make an arresting still life.
By Michael Chelich with Sheila Hollihan-Elliot

The Drawing Board
Discover easy texture tricks you can use so your portraits never suffer a bad hair day.
By Helen South

Art Clinis
Use engaging shapes and shadows for strategic value contrasts to unify and improve your art.
By Martha Newfield

Business
Make a living by doing what you love—without sacrificing your artistic integrity. Check out these 12 tips.
By Andrew Denman

Master Class
Mary Vaux Walcott's eye-catching botanicals are proof of her scientific accuracy and her artistic sensitivity.
By Jean Pederson

Departments

• Dialogue
• The Artist's Life: An unlikely portrait subject, a new look at Grant Wood and his work, art therapy for Alzheimer's, and more.
• Competition Spotlight
• 2005 Art Competition Finalist Marie Shell.
• Ask the Experts: Can watercolor paper "go bad?" Are some acrylic basecoat colors better than others? Find out.
• 2006 Art Competition
• Art News
• Materials Handbook: A new acrylic paint, plus how to reshape your pastels.