Artists use sketchbooks for a myriad of purposes - to capture a moment, to develop an idea, to record a scene. Keeping Sketchbooks advises on how to enjoy keeping a sketchbook and how to make the most of their use. With practical examples throughout, it is a beautiful and valuable guide that will inspire you to pick up a pencil or brush, mark the page and start your own visual diary.

Looks at all types of sketchbooks - their size, theme and purpose. Gives ideas for drawing and painting in a sketchbook inside, outside or while travelling. Includes advice on professional sketchbooks and scrapbooks. Profiles a range of artists who provide inspiration and examples.

Author: Martin Ursell has illustrated many books for children, including the award-winning Song of Pentecost by W J Corbett. He is a senior lecturer in illustration at Middlesex University and has previously written Illustrating Children's Books for The Crowood Press.

Selling Points:

• A beautiful and valuable guide on how to enjoy keeping a sketchbook and how to make the most of their use.
• Will appeal to artists, illustrators, designers and everyone involved in visual arts.
• All types of sketchbooks are covered, and ideas are given for drawing and painting in a sketchbook whether inside, outside or whilst travelling.
• Beautifully illustrated with 243 colour photographs.
• Martin Ursell is a senior lecturer in illustration at Middlesex University and has illustrated many books for children.

Reviews: 'A practical and engaging book... that should appeal to all those involved in the visual arts.' - John Vernon Lord