The Guild Handbook of Scientific Illustration Hardcover - 2003

From the jacket flap

The skills of the scientific illustrator must extend far beyond the ability to create an attractive drawing. In addition to mastering the standard repertoire of artist's techniques and digital drawing tools, successful scientific illustrators must understand and be proficient in a host of techniques and methods unique to their field. Sponsored by the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators and written by top illustrators, scientists, and industry experts, The Guild Handbook of Scientific Illustration, Second Edition is an indispensable reference guide for novice and professional illustrators and scientists.

This Second Edition offers broad coverage, ranging from a basic discussion of the roles and responsibilities of the scientist (or client) and the illustrator to the most current technological advances in the field. It includes new chapters on basic computer graphics, murals, model building, illustrating molecules, astronomy, 3D modeling, and earth sciences. The hundreds of tools and materials that the illustrator uses are examined here, with specific recommendations for surfaces, media, drawing tools, propping materials, measuring devices, and more. Real-world guidance, best practices, and helpful tips support the text, as well as information on innovative applications unique to scientific illustration.

All aspects of illustrating scientific subjects are covered, from depicting specimens to preserving finished illustrations. Care and handling of often-rare specimens and understanding the anatomy of taxonomic groups are addressed in the section on subject matter. This section treats the illustration of physical sciences, plants, animals, and fossils, including wildlife, anthropological and archaeological artifacts, and medical subjects. Each chapter lists the materials needed to illustrate the specimens and explains any conventions to follow when depicting a subject.

Beyond basic skills, the section on rendering techniques explores new materials and innovative methods, as well as traditional standbys and their applicability to scientific illustration. Each chapter in this section includes a comprehensive list of various drawing surfaces and other implements. Step-by-step instructions for a variety of illustrative techniques and related tools are explored in detail, such as drawing with ink, pencils, carbon dust, watercolor and wash, gouache, acrylics, airbrush, and digital media.

Scientific illustration is more than just rendering specimens, however. This practical volume provides information on using microscopes; creating charts, diagrams, and maps; reproducing artwork, both as slides or prints and for publication; and creating the best archival conditions. Important material and advice is provided on copyright and contractual concerns, as well as establishing a freelance business.

With more than 620 outstanding examples of scientific illustration in black-and-white and color, this veritable encyclopedia of scientific illustration also serves as a source of inspiration, regardless of your area of interest. Scientific illustrators refer to it as their "bible." This gorgeous, comprehensive handbook belongs on the shelf of anyone who produces, assigns, or simply appreciates scientific illustration.