Drew Brophy is an artist from California, who is best known for his artwork on surfboards, as well as his pieces revolving around the surf scene. Being from nowhere near water, I first became exposed to Drew’s art on Sector 9 skateboards. Drew has a unique style, and that’s what attracted me to his work, that and his willingness to mix media. I have seen Drew through his internet videos mix everything from water-based pens, to airbrush, to spray bombs, to get the result he desires. To me that speaks volumes, as an artist I believe that there should be no limit on what techniques you use to reach your goal, it is ultimately the end result that matters.
Drew’s latest offering to the world is the book ‘How to Draw with Drew Brophy’. Published by Walter Foster, this 48 page book goes through how to create various different scenes and characters a’ la Brophy. Like any art book we get a little background, about Drew, and of the materials you need to get working. Then Drew jumps right into his method of colouring and never looks back.
Naturally the book covers how to draw one of Drew’s trademark waves, but also covers a variety of surf characters from grumpy fish, to tikis, and even a couple of skulls for good measure. The final section covers how to paint your gear, and goes over the technique of using water-based pens to create your own custom surf and skateboard.
The book is a great size (9″x12″), with lots of easy to follow step by step illustrations with tips along the way. While the book is targeted for teenagers and kid, it makes a great read for adults as well, whether they are fans of Drew of artists themselves.
If there is one criticism that I do have is that the book does not cover surface prep or protecting your work in the custom gear section. Now I can understand that nobody (myself included) wants their 7 year old spraying a can of urethane clear coat around, but it would have been nice to see it as something to ask your parents to help you with, and gives a parent the opportunity (and the knowledge) to be part of their kids cool project and support their youthful art.
Bottom line that this a great book from Drew and is well worth the $10.95 ($8.95 US) cover price, as it contains some great drawing projects and advice. For the price of the book I know that all the little guys in my life will be getting copies. This colourful offering is worth giving up a couple cups of drive-thru coffee, to add some thing very cool and fun to your kids life…and maybe secretly yours as well…
