Member Reviews

Drawing Basics and Beyond: Transform Observation into Imagination by Sorie Kim is a beautifully illustrated lesson in how to start drawing. It includes all of the things I learned in art classes years ago and it was a great refresher for me, but would be a great start for someone who has never drawn before and wants to start. An excellent primer! Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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Thank you, NetGalley for an advanced ARC of this book

I have always loved art since I was a child, when I was younger I wanted to be an artist, but was persuaded by my mother to persue a different career choice, but now I have decided that I am egar to learn and become better at drawing again so I habe been looking into books etc to get things started.

This was a really good book to give u a look into but also help you to start into drawing basics but at the same time not giving too much where u feel overwhelmed, so if you are interested in art but don't like when u are given too much info where u feel overwhelmed then this is a good book to start with and to start slowly into learning.

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I possibly misunderstood the description of this drawing book. I expected more of a guide with step by step practices to improve your own drawing.
Instead, this book seems to be more of an inspiration with beautiful illustrations of different sketching methods.
The artists drawings are undeniably gorgeous, however I was personally a little disappointed.

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I am someone that likes to introduce and encourage the people around me to art. I give my family members books to help develop a creative and well-rounded person. As a child, I was given a sketch book, which helped me express my emotions. I wish I had a copy of this book when I was younger. I will be buying copies for the family for Xmas. The book goes through “Why Sketching is important?”. It also shows you how to develop an image from start to finish. It goes into how you draw an object in motion and make it more lifelike. I don’t have any complaints about this book. I feel like it is a must have for New Artist.

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Thanks to the publisher, Sorie Kim, and Netgalley for this eARC.

In her captivating book, Drawing Basics and Beyond, artist and esteemed instructor Sorie Kim invites us on an inspiring journey from observation to imagination. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this sketchbook master class offers valuable insights and practical techniques.

Sorie Kim demystifies drawing by emphasizing direct observation. She encourages us to see the world around us with fresh eyes, transforming everyday scenes into artistic inspiration.

Kim breaks down the essential components of sketching, guiding readers through line, shape, form, value, texture, space, composition, and perspective. Her clear explanations empower artists to build a solid foundation.

Drawing from life is at the heart of this book. Kim shares her passion for capturing the nuances of reality, whether it’s a bustling cityscape, a serene landscape, or a simple still life.

As we learn to observe, we also learn to imagine. Kim encourages experimentation, playfulness, and the freedom to infuse our sketches with personal expression.

Throughout the book, you’ll find engaging exercises that reinforce concepts. From quick gesture sketches to detailed studies, these hands-on activities enhance your skills.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by a blank page or struggled to translate what you see onto paper, Drawing Basics and Beyond provides a supportive roadmap.

Kim’s warm tone and relatable anecdotes make this more than just an instructional manual—it’s an artistic companion.

Whether you’re sketching in a cozy corner café or capturing the grandeur of a mountain range, this book celebrates the joy of creation.

In summary, Drawing Basics and Beyond is an enriching resource that bridges the gap between observation and imagination. It’s about discovering the magic within the ordinary.

I am purchasing a hard copy for future reference.

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I am not an 'artsy' person, but I love to doodle and sketch occasionally. I always welcome any help I can get with inspiration, tips and tricks and this book provides just that. I love the examples and easy-to-follow instructions! I am looking forward to picking it up when it gets published.

Thank you for the opportunity to review it beforehand.

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"Drawing Basics and Beyond" by Sorie Kim is an excellent resource for beginners or if you need to review the basics. It's a structured and comprehensive guide to sketching. The book covers foundational techniques, from basic forms to advanced concepts like perspective and rendering, with clear, step-by-step exercises. Kim’s approachable style encourages experimentation and personal growth. Whether you're looking to improve your technical skills or explore your creativity, this book provides the tools and inspiration needed to transform observation into imaginative artwork. Highly recommended for anyone starting their sketching journey.

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What a fantastic resource for anyone who’d like to gain a new skill or develop an existing one. Perfect for the budding artist.

This is an in depth exploration of sketching. It includes all the different aspects of sketching as well as it breaks down what tools you may need to achieve the sketches.

Definitely a great gift idea.

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I thought this was a great overview of drawing and illustrating basics. I really enjoyed the author's style and the visual examples of her sketchbook throughout the pages. I was hoping it would cover a bit more about how to go beyond drawing from reference into drawing from imagination, as that's why I originally requested the book, but that was only really covered in the last 25% or so. That said, I think this is a great book for beginners and those trying to push their creative style!

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This a great sketching guide! I really liked the coverage of basic sketching skills and practice as well as the discussion of the best materials to use. I enjoyed the art style a lot and am excited to get my sketchbook out tomorrow. The author had some great designs, and I really appreciate their style!

Thanks to NetGalley, Sorie Kim, and Quarto Publishing for the chance to read and review!

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Great book reviewing the basics of drawing from beginners to intermediate. Shows pictures to help guide you through your learning. Easy read.

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I am not a professional or trained artist in drawing or painting, but I am learning a lot from books - yet, they need to be good, accessible, engaging and different like this one.
The cover is quite nice, however the style inside the book is much better in my opinion.
I have read a few drawing books and this one stands out with its ‘beyond’ - the imagination, the curious example of pictures/drawings, and Sorie Kim’s unique style.
Absolutely amazing. Will add it to my ‘favourite drawing books ever’ list.

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I have always loved art, but haven't made time for it in recent years as a mother to three young children. One of my goals for this year is to fill up an entire sketchbook. "Drawing Basics and Beyond" is the perfect book to give me new inspiration, guidance and techniques as I work to complete my goal. I really enjoy books like this for inspiration and "Drawing Basics and Beyond" was one of my favorites that I have read this year. I love how she explained her tools and the different types of sketchbooks that she uses. I also enjoyed how much variety the book offered- from different techniques to tons of different subject matter ideas, this book covers it all! And the examples from her own sketchbook were very inspiring to see! Overall, I highly recommend this book; I think that both new and experienced artists are sure to feel inspired after reading it!

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