Process Recess Volume 2: Portfolio Spiral-bound – September 18, 2007

The book consists of a collection of very high quality reproductions of James Jean's illustrations, and they are certainly beautiful works. The images are printed on thick stock, and the book is large enough that pages could be mounted in a picture frame comfortably (indeed, the book appears to have been designed with this in mind). A few larger works are printed on fold out pages which might not be so suitable for framing, but are a joy to look at nonetheless. The works are masterpieces of subtly (or not so subtly) disturbing imagery and texture.On the back of each illustration is a collection of one to three elements related to the process. Sometimes there are initial sketches, or even alternative sketches that weren't used. Sometimes there are initial roughs, uncolored pencil drawings and selected Photoshop layers. As an amateur artist, I find these initial sketches are almost more interesting than the finished works. My only complaint is that sometimes the choices of what to include are eclectic, and certain elements almost seem like teasing, for example a "shade and fill layer" offered up with no more explanation of how this related to the process of creating the finished picture.If the book was going to show this much of the process, I would have liked a little bit more text, perhaps, or more images showing how the pictures were put together. As it is, while the initial sketches are interesting in their own right, I almost wish some of them could have been traded for a few more completed artworks. The book almost seems too short.Although I appreciate the large format for the art, it also makes the book difficult to shelve, and I end up treating the book very carefully because of the spiral binding, which seems prone to damage to me.These negatives aside, it is still an incredibly beautiful book, well worth the (very inexpensive) price.

This is a great book because it really shows the artists process/technique, from rough pencil scketch to final pencil, to ink, to base color to final tonal illustration. The artwork is beautiful. This is definately a book that should be a part of every artists collection.

This Art Book does live up to all of the 5 Star's it gets. It is 15" wide, unfolding to 30" for large format perfectly printed reproductions of James Jean's Art. There are many examples showing the first hand-done sketch up to the final fully rendered Art. One gets to see the process and each image is documented in detail: Size, media and even the exact paper stock. I love working on RIVES BFK and many of the original drawings that James Jean did are on that very paper! This book was published when James Jean was doing much hand drawn Art with some Photo Shop rendering for the finals, many of which are for clients. What a successful artist to bridge the commercial with the personal visionary! I have to 3rd in this series and because of this book's excellence, I just ordered the first one, as it is getting rare, as is this one, so I will have the full set of three. It is a treasure of Art Books!

Because you're so brilliant. This book is full of some of the most gorgeous art you'll see out there.

This book is absolutely beautiful. When I received it I was happy and once I opened the book, I couldn't have been more excited that I was lucky enough to get the book. I highly recommend this book for any admirer of James Jean.

I feel so lucky to have been able to get my hands on Process Recess 2. This spiral bound edition has a very sturdy feel and is printed in vibrant colors on very thick cardstock-like paper. Jean also has a key at the beginning of the book which labels the different types of materials he used in creating his final images...I especially liked this as an artist; it was nice to see his sketches and his transitions before looking at the final pieces.This is perhaps one of the best art books I have ever had the honor of owning and I plan on treasuring it for years to come.If you've ever seen James Jeans work online or his covers they just can't compete with the images reproduced in this book.

JJ is one of the most famous contemporary illustrator in the field of art now. his works are strange with a very unique approach and taste. his master draftmanship and superb painting skill simply made him the very best at the very top amongst many illustrators. This book consist of his illustration jobs, from editorial and commercial work. they r printed beautifully with vibrant colors that enchance his art to an all new lvl.This is his second book of his collection his first book Process Recess is most definitely most compelling and intensive work showing his ability as the master draftman he is. JJ IS THE BEST AND AN EXCEPTIONAL ILLUSTRATOR WHOSE WORK IS UNIQUE WITH HIS TASTE YOU CANNOT FIND IN ANY OTHER ILLUSTRATOR's WORK!!!

This is a must buy for any inspiring artist! I've been interested in JJ's art since I've seen him doing "Fables" covers. This book doesn't dissappoint. All the art is printed on high quality paper so you can frame it. There are several pieces that show a peek into his strong sense of imagination. The "Sex-Ed" and "Succubus" linger in your mind long after you have looked at them. Great book! Support great artists!

It was a gift and it was perfect!