The first definitive handbook to the treasures that can be found all over the city. Full-color illustrations of nearly two hundred Chicago murals and accompanying entries that describe their history, who commissioned them and why, how artists collaborated with architects, the subjects of the murals and their context.

“Comprehensive and substantial . . . This practical text is accessible to artists of all skill levels.” —Booklist The hands-on, user-friendly painting and drawing guidance that made The Artist’s Manual and The New Artist’s Manual beloved classics now returns in a refreshed design and compact new package. With the same breadth of content as the originals, this updated version is packed with easy to follow instructions, including comprehensive information about all varieties of materials and tools, along with hundreds of critical techniques for mastering composition, color, line, tone, and more. Copiously illustrated with 1,300 color photos and examples from working artists, this new edition is the definitive guide for artists of every skill level looking to begin, develop, and perfect their skills. The Complete Artist’s Manual is today’s essential studio companion.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1881.

Covering WPA murals to more current artwork, this handbook features full-color illustrations of nearly 200 Chicago murals with accompanying entries that describe their history. 204 color plates. 35 halftones.