View Full Version : Book Review: Leffel / Cateura, Oil Painting Secrets

soap
03-26-2008, 12:57 AM
Some people here asked me what I thought of Cateura's book which I purchased recently. Here are my thoughts and a short overview of what the book is about. I tried to
write what I would have wanted to know before buying it. I hope it can help some of you decide of buying it or not.
I am a relative newbie to oil painting but have been painting portraits in pastel for years (although never had the luxury of doing it fulltime it remained a hobby or part time
occupation).
Here we go:
Title:
Oil Painting Secrests from a Master
Prominent artist/teacher David A. Leffel shares his secrets for making professional-quality paintings
Author:
Linda Cateura
Published:
Watson-Guptill Publications, New York, 1995.
144 pages with colour reproductions.
This book is a collection of wise phrases and general advice collected by Cateura while she was studying with Leffel. The book is ordered into different subjects which will take
you deeper into the painting process. It is filled with black&white and full colour reproductions of Leffels work. Some reproductions are particularly fuzzy and out of focus (!),
but many are beautiful and useful in the book. I have been reading the 1995 paperback edition.
Part One is about the main concepts needed before you start painting. They are general and almost abstract notions of seeing like an artist (Its not how to paint what you
see, but how to see what you paint. p. 16) and the notion of a Concept. This latter idea is the backbone of every painting, so it seems, and every painting should start with
the artist thinking about what he is going to paint. Every great painting can be defined as a picture with one essential visual idea. It is what the entire painting is about (p.
18). Once you know this, the concept will solve all problems of light, space, value, edges etc. The most important thing is to think about it (p. 20).
Cateura then goes on with some examples (of Leffels work of course) of different concepts in paintings (color, light, edges) and how they were made to work.
In part two Cateura writes about the painting process and delves into the more practical matters of palette choice, canvas, brushstroke techniques, chiaroscuro (light and
dark) and goes on with some examples of how to paint, massing, and planes. Most of this is formed into one-liners and short advisory notes. Think in terms of planes,
mass, dimension, rather than line and shading. The only way to start is by creating a mass. (p. 46)
Part three is titled Basic Advice and covers the subjects of light and shadow, values, edges, color, and then goes on to give some general advice on how to paint still lives,
portraits and backgrounds. Again, most of these chapters are made up out of one-liners which are easy to read and easy to remember. Some points are more obvious than
others (depending on the readers level of advancement perhaps). Examples: The centre of interest is always in the light (p. 60). Do the shadow and let it go. Dont try to
do any modeling in the shadow. Describing form is not a function of shadow (p. 66). Light is the melody. It moves, it rises and falls in intensity (p. 66). Decide on your
values for the finished painting early. Color is easy, value is difficult (p. 68). Warm colors advance and cool colors recede. The human eye expresses a natural preference for
yellow, red, orange; it sees gray, blue, green only peripherally (p. 74).
In part four of the book are some general observations on painting and attitudes that can hold you back as an artist. Again the short, listed advisory notes vary from stating
the obvious to really practical advice and on to more deeper comments on the meaning of art.
The last lines of the book are wise though a little long-winded: Talent is the willingness to figure it out. Its not a mystical or metaphysical thing. Its the ability to relinquish
all your assumptions and conceits in order to learn (p. 139). In other words, talent is the willingness to learn and have an open mind. At the same time howver, you have to
understand, learning to paint requires active participation (p. 130) and acquiring information is not learning. When a student has an insight it rarely, if ever, has to do with
acquiring more technique. It has to do with seeing clearly (p. 128). In other words: you simply have to paint an awful lot in order to learn and develop your talent.
The book is still widely available in the shops and is very affordable. As a fairly experienced painter, but a relatively newbie to oils, I found it wonderful to read. It sometimes
states the obvious, but that only helps to confirm what you already (think you) know. Other things are great to see put into words, sometimes you might have used the
technique for ages without realising it. It helps to learn to see what youre doing. The book helps to break down the different parts of a painting and identifying them can help
making a picture work (better). It certainly helped me make choices in my paintings when it comes to edges, color etc. But it is important not take everything as sacred truth
as it seems that Cateura/Leffel are sometimes stating ideas that not necessarily represent the only way of painting good pictures. Throughout the book there is a noticeable
absence of drawing. Of course this book is about painting and not drawing but many artists will see drawing as a backbone of good painting.
In an article in The Artists Magazine (June 2006) Leffel does rate drawing as important and admits he doesnt practice it enough. It is a shame that he thought it necessary to
critizice fellow artist David Hockney in this interview, saying he cant draw, and he cant paint either (p. 39). I can imagine that if students follow the ideas in the book too
closely well have a lot of Leffel-followers with a Leffel painting style. The book must work best if you pick and choose from it what works for you and ignore what doesnt.
Leffel dislikes painting from photographs (and he agrees with many artists here) and states in The Artists Magazine that you lose touch with all reality (p. 39). Considering
many, many contemporary artists use photographs, computers and such for their art it seems a tiny touch judgmental to state such things but I will put it down to him being
part of the old school and I find him an excellent messenger and instructor for its technique and philosophy.
A book worth buying: definitely for oil painters. Perhaps for others too. Certainly considering the affordable price.
I hope this review was useful to some of you.
Soap
(PS. I was first introduced to Leffel's work by an interview in International Artist Magazine some years ago. I'll see if I can find the article and perhaps there is something
worthwile in there that can be added to this review/thread)
billmahler
03-26-2008, 10:05 AM
Soap
Wonderful review!
I have this book in a handy place and pick it up and browse it now and then.
I'm still struggling with idea of a "concept" tho. Saying "the light moves from left to right" doesn't seem to be enough for me as a conceptual approach to a painting.
I think I'm missing something obvious.. it certainly wouldn't be the first time I did that.
IanRobertMcKown
03-26-2008, 11:03 AM
I have this book as well, and found it to be a great read, especially when you might be a little stuck on a particular piece. As for the review, I found it to be helpful, but when
you added this at the end:
In an article in The Artists Magazine (June 2006) Leffel does rate drawing as important and admits he doesnt practice it enough. It is a shame that he thought it necessary to
critizice fellow artist David Hockney in this interview, saying he cant draw, and he cant paint either (p. 39). I can imagine that if students follow the ideas in the book too
closely well have a lot of Leffel-followers with a Leffel painting style. The book must work best if you pick and choose from it what works for you and ignore what doesnt.
Leffel dislikes painting from photographs (and he agrees with many artists here) and states in The Artists Magazine that you lose touch with all reality (p. 39). Considering
many, many contemporary artists use photographs, computers and such for their art it seems a tiny touch judgmental to state such things but I will put it down to him being
part of the old school and I find him an excellent messenger and instructor for its technique and philosophy.

I couldn't help but feel this had nothing to do with his book, and was a little more of an "axe to grind" personal statement. You're quoting material not found in his book, and
therefore maybe a "rants forum" would have been a better place to vent your feelings rather than in a "review" of one singular piece of work.

soap
03-26-2008, 11:29 AM
Billmahler - thanks! Yes, the idea of a 'concept' is a bit abstract but I do think (and what do I know) it is really not as 'grand' as it appears. Why not try and paint a picture
'about light' or 'about color' - even if there's more going on. Recognizing that you want to paint beautiful light, for example, will help in solving problems and keeping your
focus. I think the word 'concept' suggests much grander ideas than what Leffel is really saying.
Well, that's what I thought when reading the book though....I might have gotten it all wrong.
IanRobertMcknown, Whoa ! Never meant to come across as angry as you make me sound! And I do not think I did. No personal axes, I don't know Leffel so have nothing
against him! I just thought it helpful to get to know Leffel a bit more and complete the picture about this man and his ideas. Hence I was also thinking of digging up the
International Artist article. In a book review one can write something about the author and his ideas, right? No? I was quoting material that is indeed not in this book, but I
was quoting Leffel. If this review (no quotes) was not for you - fine. We can debate Leffel's ideas anytime of course.
IanRobertMcKown
03-26-2008, 11:33 AM
I just found that last bit to be a little disparaging.
soap
03-26-2008, 11:36 AM
Maybe I should have left it out. Just wanted to make a more complete picture about Leffel.
:o
:)
IanRobertMcKown
03-26-2008, 11:44 AM
I would say, that reviewing a book not actually written by Leffel (they are a collection of notes taken by Cateura), and including a small snippet of an interview with Leffel,
would in no way give anyone a "complete picture" of him. I really don't want to get into much of a debate about this. I would suggest not only getting An Artist Teaches, but
also some of his videos, and then you might yourself have a clearer understanding or him, if not the "complete" picture.
I'll bow out of this thread, ad I don't want to debate this overly much.
Happy painting
soap
03-26-2008, 12:16 PM
To make the picture a little bit more complete (but by no means complete) and to add to the understanding:
An interview with Leffel appeared in International Artist Magazine April/May 2004. It was my first introduction to Leffel and I was blown away by the beauty of the images and
the words started me thinking:
"The real mystery of a painting is in understanding the relationships, such as the contrast of empty space and filled space as well as light and shadow"
and: "Once you understand what you want to put on the canvas, technique naturally follows", "To develop artistically, you must first learn the whys of painting, not technique"
(p. 36-37 Int Art Mag).
Here is the cover of the book:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/15421-cateurabook.jpg
A sample page:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/15421-cateurabookpage.jpg
And two images of Leffel's paintings, taken from the International Artist Magazine article:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/15421-leffel_image1.jpg
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/15421-leffel_image2.jpg
Please add your ideas on Leffel!
royc8
03-26-2008, 03:37 PM
Soap thanks for taking time to do this review, I don't see anything wrong with the last paragraph, it is your opinion just as the review is. Please don't feel you have to defend
it. Let em rant :)
I does seem an interesting book, I'll maybe get it in the future. It's nice to get an insight into what it's like, so thanks again.
Roy ; )
lonestar
03-26-2008, 03:51 PM
soap, thanks for taking the time to make this post.
dawn
billmahler
03-27-2008, 10:16 AM
Why not try and paint a picture 'about light' or 'about color'
Yes, that's what I got from it too, but I'm reminded of the Peggy Lee song from the 60's - "Is that all there is?"
Sometimes, I guess, there's less to things than meets the eye and the trick is to find out what that less is.
tweetie
03-27-2008, 11:45 AM
Calling Mr. Leffel old school for pushing drawing from life seems a bit harsh. This is still the way artists are taught today. Taking a few quotes from an interview cannot give
even a partial picture of this great master and seems to paint him in a negative light (pun intended :cat: ). Are there "new school" masters that push drawing from photos?
:lol:
soap
03-27-2008, 12:24 PM
Boy, I am nearly regretting writing that as we end up discussing my words instead of Leffel's/Cateura's.
But no, there are no 'new school' masters that push drawing from photos but there is a 'new school' (if that's what you want to call it) that accepts, appreciates and develops
working from digital images etc. That doesn't mean 'they' do not appreciate working from life for its value.
Hi Bill....yes, I know what you mean. Does art need to be about more than these simple (well....not that simple perhaps to execute LOL) concepts and about more
philosophical things? I think thats personal....for me personally a painting about light or colour is plenty to get my teeth (brush) into....maybe I am a bit shallow....LOL...;)
soap
03-27-2008, 01:17 PM
I don't think calling someone 'old school' is disrespectful. I do not 'name call'.
I think my review shows clearly that I thought it is a great book and I have huge admiration for Leffel's work. Read it. I never intended (and that was clear too) to give a
totally complete picture of the man. Read.
Whenever you read a review you might not always agree with the author. That's the nature of reviews. I am glad I am not your 'sista'.
billmahler
03-27-2008, 02:59 PM
I also felt that your review lacked respect.
There was no lack of respect.
If you think you can write a better, more respectful, review than do it. I'll look forward to seeing it.
SOAP made an excellent contribution to the forum by summarizing the book clearly and succinctly.
She clearly marked her opinions about Leffel as her opinions. It's a good reviewer's responsibility to reveal any preconceptions or biases about the topic, and she did it
thoroughly and honestly.
I admire Leffel a great deal and I didn't find anything she said to be disrespectful.
On the contraryThere are lots of conflicting opinions on what we should be painting and how we should be painting it.
Being an eloquent and leading spokesman for what he thinks, he naturally invites contrary views.

Singling him out as a leading proponent is respectful of his accomplishments.

And, sigh, sooner or later.. we all become "old school!"
I suppose Rembrandt would be considered "old school" since he never saw electric light.
If I could paint like Leffel, you could call me "old school" all day long.
Thanks again SOAP, respectfully.
soap
03-28-2008, 04:47 AM
:) Thank you Bill!
Eduardo Flores
03-28-2008, 07:19 AM
I would like to thank so much "soap" for both indication and comments with regard to this book: many of us will gain in their vision of their artistic concepts; many thanks to
"billmahler" too, for his thoughtful interventions.
A post had to be deleted, because not in harmony with the spirit of friendliness that must direct our Forum.
About the thread itself, my opinion is that what had to be said has already been said; in any case, it is still open, for the moment, considering any possible, future posts.
But please: keep in mind that respect towards any of our members is as important as artistic ideas.
Eduardo
busterdog
03-28-2008, 12:17 PM
I have found Leffel's book to be quite useful over the years .... looking at it every now and then reminds me to "loosen up."
I also highly recommend Richard Schmid's book ( and his videos ) for anyone who is looking for help from a really great artist. :clap:
soap
03-28-2008, 01:25 PM
Thank you very much Eduardo!:)
Thanks for commenting Busterdog!
I would love to have Schmid's book but $50 plus $28 for postage to the UK is a bit much for me....
If anyone can review it (with lots of excerpts so I have something instead of nothing.....hee hee....:D) ..?
romans611
03-28-2008, 02:54 PM
I have the book and have found it very useful. It goes beyond the typical this is paint this is a brush this is a canvas . zzzzz. The book had many helpful
suggestions and I have referred to it many times however, the information could be better organized.
Your review is helpful and informative. If some have problems with it so be it. It is after all your opinion.
Thanks for the review and your efforts.
Bob
Naturegyrll
03-28-2008, 04:24 PM
What is this? A book review, or a reviewer review?
I found the review helpful. I have been eyeing this book for some time now. Thanks for the cover picture!
royc8
03-28-2008, 04:38 PM
Soap I have Schmid's book, I you want I can post it to you as long as you post it back when you have read it.
Roy
billmahler
03-28-2008, 04:54 PM
I can post it to you as long as you post it back when you have read it.
I'd love to get in line for it. The $ scared me.
Dana Design
03-29-2008, 09:44 AM
Schmid's book is definitely worth the money. Have it and love it.
Also have Cateura's book and one of the things I found was that Cateura is basically a writer and not a painter so that some of those comments written are very ambiguous
and odd. There are a few comments that make absolutely no sense...can't find them now but only a few while the remainder of the book is excellent and to the point.
I agree with roman in that it could be better organized but guess what? It's bedside reading for me. I pick it up frequently to remind myself about values, warms and cools
and edges in particular. It's a wonderful book!
KingCrimson
03-29-2008, 10:50 AM
Very good review!
I've had this book for years,one of the first art books I bought,and I've always thought there were some great nuggets to ponder in there.
The most important one for me,or the one that stuck with me most was the importance of having a "concept"at the outset.
Admittedly,as has been said,"concept"can seem pretty abstract,but if you read this book I think you can get the gist.
I actually copied one of the still lifes(apples)and it came out pretty good.My "concept" was to copy a Leffel still life.:lol: Gave me incentive to keep going though.
I would recommend this book also.
grampy bone
03-29-2008, 10:48 PM
Soap,
I read your review and found it very insightful. I'll definately check this book out. Theres nothing wrong with putting your own opinion at the end either.
I'd highly recommend Schmid's "Alla Prima: Everything I know about Painting". Its one of the best books I've read on oil painting. I don't have the patience to write a long
review, but I believe there are other threads on this site that discuss the book. He's a living master IMO, spend the money, you won't regret it!
soap
03-30-2008, 02:14 PM
romans611, thanks! We can always discuss.....:)
Naturegyrll, LOL!! Thanks and you're welcome.
royc8, wow. Thanks that's very, very kind of you. We'd need to check how much it would cost to post a book from the UK to Ireland but I fear I have to take a raincheck as
we're hoping to move house within a month and I would hate the book getting lost/damaged by the movers....Thanks again.
Dana - thanks. If she's a writer she would have organised it better....LOL....seems like she's an artist - disorganised and all. I must admit I did not notice it being
disorganised. It just states the obvious sometimes. But its indeed a wonderful book!
KingCrimson, Thanks! Yeah....'concept'....almost as difficult an idea as 'art'....I think Cateura/Leffel shouldn't have used such a scary word....makes us all think we need to
come up with something immensely philosophical....
grampy bone, Thanks. ooooh.....tempted to order that book....hmm....how long till Christmas? :D
hblenkle
03-31-2008, 10:37 AM
Another book that shows the same style of painting is "Problem Solving For Oil Painters" by Gregg Kreutz. When learning to paint in that style Leffel's and Kreutz's books were
excellent guides. Indeed painting copies of their works really helps to learn the lessons in the books. Like copying the Old Masters.
hblenkle
Novenus
11-13-2008, 01:13 AM
I second hblenkle's comment: I prefer Gregg Kreutz's book over the Cateura, as it is better organized and to the point. As the Cateura book is a collection of notes, by its
nature is more scattered.
I do have Leffel's An Artist Teaches but overall do not find it very worth my while except for the wonderful repros of his work. Maybe it's just me...?

I may have to pick up the Schmid's book now. Thanks for the recommendation.
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