Poetic Woods

Renowned watercolorist Ann Blockley brings untamed woodlands and forest wilderness to life with her acclaimed style and innovative techniques.

Best-selling artist and author Ann Blockley is renowned for her striking and intriguing paintings of natural landscapes. In this beautiful guide she explores woodlands—from tangled groves and ancient trees to fiery leaves and springtime orchards—in a variety of interpretations, and in glorious seasonal color.

Packed with stunning examples of her colorful, expressive work, Blockley explains not only her own unique creative process and deeply personal approach but also those of fellow artists from the Arborealist group, the Royal Institute, and the Pastel Society, encouraging you to experiment to develop a personal style of your own along the way.

Drawing inspiration from poetry, birdsong, and folklore and incorporating words, text, and photo transfer, the book draws you further into the forest with practical advice on working outside, experimenting with mixing colors (especially greens), playing with water effects, using salt and granulation, mark-making and spattering with found objects such as leaves and twigs, creating texture with gesso and collage, and working with oak gall ink and charcoal.

With simple instructions and easy-to-follow demonstrations throughout, the book includes a case study of Blockley’s own woodland garden—six acres of wild nature reserve with woodland and hedgerows. Pushing the boundaries of watercolor and other mixed media, this delightful wander through the woods is the ideal companion for both beginners and the more experienced landscape painter who wishes to take their painting to the next level.