Book excerpt: Develop your drawing skills and rediscover the world around you with this innovative and beautifully illustrated book. In Sketch Book for the Artist, acclaimed artist and teacher Sarah Simblet teaches you how to draw by combining practical lessons with examples of both her own work and some of the world's greatest drawings. She introduces all the key drawing materials, then shows you how to master the basic elements of drawing in a series of step-by-step drawing classes, covering topics ranging from simple mark-making to establishing form, creating tone, and conveying perspective. You will learn how to explore a wide variety of subjects, from still life, plants, and animals to portraits, the human body, landscapes, and buildings, all of which are introduced with outstanding drawings by famous artists. The bestselling author of Anatomy for the Artist and Botany for the Artist, Sarah demonstrates how she works - from quick pencil sketches to pen and ink studies - with expertise and plenty of encouraging tips, and complements them with plentiful examples from her own drawing books. Sketch Book for the Artist is for anyone who wants to draw, whether you are a complete beginner or would like to refresh your existing skills. Whatever your ability, it will inspire you to reach for a pencil and paper and start drawing.