The nude has inspired artists for centuries and continues to inspire us today. Alongside a historical study of the nude in painting, this book introduces oil paint and gives advice on techniques when using this challenging and rewarding medium. Capturing the beauty of form and the delicate colours of the figure, it celebrates the powerful images that examine human relationships, personality and psychology. Topics covered include: . A review of the importance and contribution of the nude in painting . Instruction on materials, the colour palette and stretching your own canvas . Advice on the practicalities of working with a model in the studio . Colour-mixing exercises to explore colour relationships and temperature . Step-by-step examples that demonstrate the progression of a painting AUTHOR: Adele Wagstaff is a practising artist who divides her time between the studio and teaching painting courses. When painting she is concerned with the portrayal of the tranquil and contemplative qualities of still life arrangements, a process which veers on the meditative. Her work is held in collections across the UK and is exhibited regularly. SELLING POINTS: . A beautiful and essential guide to painting the nude in oils . Aimed at oil painters including beginners, more experienced, untutored groups, individual artists and art historians . Gives a review of the importance and contribution of the nude in painting . Instruction and advice is given on colour-mixing exercises, materials, the colour palette and the practicalities of working with a model in the studio . Adele Wagstaff is a practising artist who divides her time between the studio and teaching painting courses