“Gurney has gathered teaching methods and painting practices culled from his own experience and the history of art, in particular the late nineteenth century, and placed the golden knowledge of centuries at the artist’s fingertips.”

—Dennis Nolan, Professor of Illustration, Hartford Art School

“Jim’s book, at once encyclopedic and anecdotal, belongs beside the taboret of every narrative painter. It is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to authoritative painting and visionary storytelling as well as a lively visual testament to a committed artist’s life lived fully and passionately. I heartily recommend it to all my students.”

—Charles S. Pyle, Director, Illustration, Academy of Art University, San Francisco