The Simple Art of Chinese Brush Painting (hardcover, 128 pages) by Qu Lei Lei. Paint beautiful works of art using the special brush-and-ink techniques cultivated for centuries by Chinese artists-techniques that allowed them to represent the structure and spirit of any subject. Every image provides inspiration, background information enlightens you on how the style developed, and practical guidance helps beginners select brushes, paper, ink, and other supplies. Master the skills of both the Literati (freehand) and Meticulous (more formal) styles, and see how to create each of the classic and meaningful Four Gentlemen -the blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum-as well as a range of elegant birds. More than 15 exquisite projects include a flower-and-bird parchment fan, bamboo greeting cards, lantern with a nightingale in peach blossom, and decorative kite with gold-fish design. Even if you don't paint the illustrations and reading about the technique still makes this a very enjoyable book.