The art of ballpoint - Matt Rota

The Art of Ballpointoffers a historical perspective of the pen as an art medium and how it has evolved and grown in popularity. The book features several leading contemporary ballpoint artists who are creating complex and provocative masterpieces. They discuss their methods, the messages in their work, and their personal connections to the pen.

These fascinating pieces range from psychologically charged portraits to mutant animals to spectacular wall-sized abstractions. The chapters cover classical drawings, modern abstractions, graphic illustration, contemporary realism, and sketchbook styles.

Interspersed throughout the book, ballpoint techniques are demonstrated through stepped-out exercises that explore line drawing and crosshatching, shading and tone, photo-realism, drawing texture and pattern, working in layers, mixing other media with ballpoint, and more. Glide through this inspiring book and enjoy the intricate and impressive works created from an everyday tool.