Book excerpt: The ability to draw the human form accurately and competently is a primary goal for many aspiring artists, despite the current trend in the art establishment away from figurative subjects. The book is intended for anyone who wants to discover every aspect of what for centuries was regarded as the real test of an artist's mettle. Renowned teacher and artist Barrington Barber begins his exploration with anatomy, an understanding which is vital if the artist is to handle form and translate what he sees into a believable representation of life. He goes on to look at the whole figure: clothed, drawn from life, in action and in detail. Supported by sections on composition, styles and a step-by-step guide to a final composition, he has once again achieved a brilliantly inspirational art book. Comprehensive, easy to follow and packed with over 300 of Barrington Barber's illustrations, The Fundamentals of Figure Drawing is a must for artists of all abilities.