Alla Prima II - Expanded Edition: Everything I Know about Painting--And More

Alla Prima II: Expanded Edition Everything I Know About Paintingand More is a comprehensive guide to oil painting written by renowned artist Richard Schmid. First published in 2009 as an expansion of his earlier 1998 work, this book represents a lifetime of artistic wisdom distilled into one volume. The title "Alla Prima" refers to the wet-on-wet painting technique completed in one session, but the book covers far more than just this approach. Schmid's work has earned legendary status in the art community, with many experienced painters claiming that rereading the book reveals new insights as their skills develop. The expanded edition includes additional content, refinements, and improved illustrations that further enhance its value as a painting resource.

Overview of the Book's Structure

The book is organized into logical sections that guide artists from fundamental concepts to advanced techniques. It begins with discussions on preparation, including selecting materials and setting up a functional workspace. The middle sections dive into core painting concepts such as color mixing, values, and seeing edges correctly. Later chapters explore more complex techniques specific to various subjects like portraits, still life, and landscapes. What makes Alla Prima II particularly valuable is how Schmid doesn't just explain what to do but why it works, often using clear examples and demonstrations. The book also includes thoughtfully designed diagrams and plentiful reproductions of Schmid's own paintings to illustrate key concepts.

Key Painting Techniques Covered

A comprehensive range of painting techniques is explored throughout the book's pages. Schmid devotes significant attention to color theory and practical color mixing, helping artists understand how to create harmonious color relationships and avoid muddy mixtures. His explanation of valuethe lightness or darkness of coloris particularly illuminating, showing how accurate value relationships create convincing form and depth. Edge control receives extensive coverage, with Schmid demonstrating how varying edges from hard to soft can guide the viewer's eye and create the illusion of reality. Brushwork techniques are thoroughly detailed.

The book delves extensively into the importance of observation and training one's eye to see accurately, rather than painting what one thinks one sees. Schmid's approach teaches artists to break down what they see into simple shapes and relationships, building complexity through a systematic process. Composition principles are woven throughout the text, with practical advice on arranging elements to create compelling visual statements. The technique of squinting to simplify values is thoroughly explained as a tool for seeing relationships more clearly.

The Author's Philosophy and Approach

Beyond technical instruction, Alla Prima II offers insight into Richard Schmid's artistic philosophy. He advocates for an honest approach to paintingcapturing what one observes without stylistic filters or unnecessary embellishment. Schmid emphasizes the importance of developing one's personal vision while respecting the fundamental laws of nature that govern visual perception. His approach balances technical mastery with expression, encouraging artists to use strong technique in service of their creative intentions rather than as an end in itself.

The author stresses continuous learning and observation throughout an artist's career, presenting himself not as a guru with all answers but as a fellow traveler sharing what he has discovered. Schmid's writing reveals his deep respect for both the natural world and the artistic process, encouraging artists to develop their relationship with their subjects and with the act of painting itself.

Special Features of the Expanded Edition

The expanded edition of Alla Prima II builds upon its predecessor with additional chapters discussing painting specific subjects such as flowers, drapery, and landscape elements. The color sections have been enhanced with better reproductions of Schmid's work, and the diagrams have been refined for clarity. The book also includes a new chapter on painting portraits, covering this challenging subject with the same thorough analysis applied throughout the text.

Reception and Impact in the Art Community

Since its publication, Alla Prima II has achieved near-cult status among representational painters. Art schools and ateliers worldwide have adopted it as a core text, and countless professional artists attribute significant breakthroughs in their work to its teachings. Online forums and artist communities frequently reference Schmid's concepts, with many artists noting that the book's insights continue to reveal themselves even after multiple readings. The book's impact extends beyond techniqueit has influenced a generation of artists to approach painting with greater observation, honesty, and respect for the craft.

Who Would Benefit from Reading Alla Prima II

While aimed principally at oil painters, Alla Prima II offers knowledge transferable to other painting mediums. Intermediate to advanced painters will find it most immediately useful, though dedicated beginners can grow with the text over time. Artists interested in representational work, particularly those working from direct observation, will find especially relevant guidance. However, even illustrators and abstract artists can benefit from Schmid's deep understanding of color, value, and visual perception. The book serves as both a practical handbook and a philosophical treatise on art.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Alla Prima II represents one of the most comprehensive and insightful books on painting available today. Schmid's ability to explain complex concepts with clarity and practicality makes the book both accessible and deeply informative. Its combination of technical guidance and philosophical reflection sets it apart from more utilitarian instruction books. For artists seeking to deepen their understanding of painting principles and refine their practice, Alla Prima II offers a roadmap that can inform years of artistic development. While not a quick-fix solution or step-by-step tutorial, it provides the foundational knowledge from which authentic technique can grow. For these reasons, Alla Prima II deserves a place on any serious painter's bookshelf and regular revisiting throughout an artist's journey.