Foreword - M. I. Byrne

In the year following his retirement, Doug Blanks embarked upon an unexpected journey into the world of art during a holiday in France when he purchased five tubes of oil paint. This spontaneous decision unveiled an innate ability for oil painting, a skill that had taken 66 years to show itself, and one he seemed to realise almost overnight.

Drawn to the work and techniques of the old masters, Blanks soon understood and overcame the challenges they presented. This realisation spurred a broader exploration of art, leading him to ponder the age-old question: "What is art"?

After years of contemplation and study, Blanks distilled his personal insights into a compelling book that offers a fresh perspective on the art world - 'The Facts of Art'.

His analysis cuts through the dense fog of artistic debate that has accumulated over the years, providing clarity and simplicity to what has become an overwhelmingly complex issue for art students and enthusiasts alike.

But Blanks' book is more than just a philosophical thesis on art, it's also a practical guide designed to empower individuals.

In the tutorial it shares an array of tips, tricks, and methodologies that promise to supercharge the reader's inherent artistic capabilities.

Whether you're a novice artist or a seasoned practitioner, Blanks' revelations promise to enrich your understanding and practice of art, making this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to embark upon an artistic journey of discovery.

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