Barcelona is a beautiful city and famed for its buildings. Barcelona Sketchbook: Homage to Catalan Architecture allows the reader to view these façades in something of a different light and one that is awash with pastel hues and subtle shadows.
Graham Byfield, the artist for this book, ambles with his keen eye through the Ramblas, he documents the achievements of Antoni Gaudí, he takes in the sights of cafés and squares – and all have their own personality. Graham has an accessible style which readily conveys both ambiance and charm.
Barcelona is a magnet for tourists from Europe and beyond. They want to experience first-hand the rich cultural heritage of one of the world’s most visited cities. There are UNESCO sites aplenty, but also lesser known spots and quieter corners to explore. Graham Byfield finds them all and immortalises them in pencil and watercolour.
Wonderful souvenir of the city
Along with the artwork are notes handwritten by the artist, as well as an introduction to Barcelona and its various areas by heritage expert Marcus Binney. This colourful panorama presents a wonderful souvenir of the city. I think Barcelona Sketchbook: Homage to Catalan Architecture is very much for those who have already spent time there. They are best placed to truly appreciate not only the skill of the artist but also the impressions of the places they would have undoubtedly visited.
Barcelona Sketchbook: Homage to Catalan Architecture is a gift-quality volume which will be welcomed by travellers and budding artists alike.
Barcelona Sketchbook: Homage to Catalan Architecture
Author: Marcus Binney, Illustrator: Graham Byfield
Publisher: Laurence King Publishing
Price: £22.00
ISBN-13: 978-1786272195