The path to discovering and developing the artist within
During her fifty years as an artist and teacher, Mary Whyte has discovered that tapping our personal well of creativity and passion is the most important lesson—much more so than how to paint an eye, clouds, or steam. In An Artist's Life, Whyte guides art makers and art lovers past stifling obstacles and self-doubts to see the world with fresh eyes and create their most original and expressive work. A touchstone for developing the habits we need to live our most creative, inspired, and meaningful life, this is a transformative lifelong art lesson that artists of all kinds, as well as non-artists seeking a more creative and fulfilling life, will return to again and again. The book includes seventy of Whyte's acclaimed portraits and new, never-before-seen works.
Mary Whyte is an internationally recognized watercolor artist and author of numerous books, including We the People: Portraits of Veterans in America. She has been awarded the Portrait Society of America's Gold Medal and the National Daughters of the American Revolution Medal of Honor. She lives near Charleston, South Carolina.
"Mary Whyte guides us in how to open our eyes and hearts to inspiration and creativity—no matter what the art form. Whyte's work is genius with the power to transform."—Mary Alice Monroe, New York Times bestselling author
"An Artist's Life is a lovely memoir, as poetic as it is painterly, disguised as a how-to book . . . how to live the fierce, brave life of an artist."—Martha Teichner, author and longtime correspondent for CBS Sunday Morning
"In her new book, Mary Whyte concentrates on the most important thing she believes a teacher can do—open a door. An Artist's Life is an enjoyable read for collectors while challenging artists to up their creative game and 'BRING IT!'"—Seth Hopkins, executive director, Booth Western Art Museum"—Seth Hopkins, executive director, Booth Western Art Museum
"Mary Whyte invites readers into her own journey of discovery, sharing the experiences that shaped her singular artistic voice."—Kelly Kane, author, editor-in chief of PleinAir Magazine and American Watercolor Weekly
"A beautiful journey through Mary Whyte's growth and development as an artist. Through her concise descriptions and exceptional examples of her work, Whyte's story, inspiration, talent, and unique voice will leave you wanting more."—Michael Shane Neal, artist
"A guidebook for how to heighten expression, nurture creativity, face criticism, commit to the work, and go boldly into the world . . . An Artist's Life is illuminating, wise, and wonderful. If I'd allowed myself to use a highlighter pen, these pages would be a sea of yellow ink."—Anne Hevener, editor-in-chief, Artists Magazine
