From Heart to Canvas Ed Sandoval's art is all about expression, mood and history. See how he captures all that and more in his paintings of northern New Mexico. By Steve Smith

Painting by Design No matter how much you put into your paintings—bits of storytelling, interesting subject matter and blends of philosophies—it all comes together with a good composition. By Milind Mulick

Finding Freedom
There's very little creativity in fear. Move toward artistic liberation by learning to let go of that fear and giving yourself permission to grow.
By Carla O'Connor

In Full Bloom
Add life to your floral paintings with these three fresh perspectives on the art of flower arranging—from setting the scene to setting the mood.
By Jennifer Ball

Special Section: Your Best Yet
Looking to create more provocative colored pencil paintings? Or for more creative ideas in general? Take a peek inside the processes of four artists to help you take your work to the next level.
By Steve Smith

Creative Communities
Take a virtual tour of six North American art towns. The open-mindedness, scenery and support for the arts of these communities just may inspire your next trip.
Staff Report

Columns

Color Corner
Find out why colors disappear, and how you can keep using extinct and obsolete pigments as long as possible.
By Butch Krieger

Brushing Up
Revisit the ancient medium of egg tempera and see what its luminous qualities can do for your art.
By Douglas Wiltraut

Art Clinic
Create more exciting landscapes by working outdoors, specifying your light source and using a little artistic license.
By Joyce Pike

Drawing Board
Add more interest to your landscapes by making stone walls and fence posts part of your art.
By Stanley Maltzman

Business
Learn about the art event sweeping the nation that could help you sell more paintings.
By By Annie Pais and Stewart J. Thomas

Master Class
Gain a better understanding of the world around you by taking a closer look as Albrecht Dürer did.
By Greg Albert

Departments

• Dialogue
• Competition Spotlight: 2004 Art Competition finalist Mark Boyle.
• The Artist's Life: Results of a study on the value of art; "reality" TV meets fine art; how to be your own creativity coach; and more.
• Technical Q&A
• Art News
• Materials Handbook: Altering books with acrylics and acrylic mediums; a new paint storage box; new shades of colored pencil; and more.