I first read this a year ago, nearly same week. A delightful, easy to read book, self described as a practical book on watercolor. I think this year I approached it as “comfort food” and will probably revisit it in the future.

Miller has a chain of art supply stores in the US SE (I stop in at the one in Asheville NC when I pass through once or twice a year) but he doesn’t push his business in this book. He does mention it though and gives thanks folks who supported him in his early years.

The book is full of tidbits of wisdom with the main point being “if you want to paint with watercolor, then paint”.

Simple formula.

Most of the art displayed throughout the book is his own and he invites you to steal it (make use of it).

He tells vignettes of his art adventures around the country with many set in one of my favorites areas, western NC.

This would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s book shelf. Or a nice coffee table book.
I never met him, but would have loved to. He passed away September 2023.

Here is a wonderful article on that news: Remembering Joe “Cheap Joe” Miller