This month our Publishers’ Letter is dedicated to our longstanding writers and their departments and features. This includes our celebrity artist Harley Brown, who has been writing for us since issue #1. That’s right—27 years ago! Time flies when you’re having fun. Harley is a witty, wildly talented master painter, and just an all-around great person. If you read one column in this issue, read his. Insider tip from the publishers: Harley also has a very fun story as a guest on episode 21 of our podcast The American Art Collective. You can find our episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon, or just scan this QR code and listen now. Harley is a rockstar in the world of art and has been part of the team for almost three decades.

Next up is Australian watercolorist, John Lovett, who graces our cover this month. John is a master painter who highlights tips and tricks from composition and color, all the way to how to take care of your watercolor brushes. You will find his watercolor workshop in every issue for the past 21 years, back to when he first joined us with issue 38, August/September 2004. His medieval facades, texturing and sense of romanticism is what brings his demonstrations to life each month. This is John’s first cover work, just in time for his 21st anniversary with the magazine. Congratulations John! In speaking with editor Alyssa Tidwell, she had the following to say: “One of John’s greatest assets is how approachable he makes art. No matter what stage you’re in on your art journey, he meets artists where they’re at with open arms. He’s also just excellent with composition, inking/line drawing and color harmony.” Powerful. You can read his workshop article starting on page 114. 

To round it out, I would like to spotlight Station Points with James Gurney. James is another 20-plus year veteran of the magazine, and Station Points is a highly popular column month after month. James’ original fame came from his incredible paintings, drawings and sculptures of dinosaurs. (His USPS stamp series The World of Dinosaurs is a collectible.) Station Points will always bring you insightful ideas and new ways of thinking about art. James was also a guest on The American Art Collective. You can hear his story on episode #305. It’s a truly engaging listen, and a great peek into the life of another master painter. We love our artist writers. Enjoy this issue!

Sincerely,
Wendie Martin & Adolfo Castillo
Publishers