If it?s Toogood to be true ? then it?s watercolour artist James we?re talking about. The accomplished painter, author and lecturer, who has been visiting Bermuda for over 30 years (?I first came when I was three?) is back once again on local shores, this time for a book signing on Friday, August 5 when his newest publication will be officially launched.

Entitled ?Incredible Light & Texture in Watercolour?, it features one of Mr. Toogood?s watercolours on the cover, as well as many other Bermuda scenes on the inside.

An acknowledged expert in his field, Mr. Toogood?s book provides fascinating insight into the watercolour genre. As befits an award-winning artist who is also a widely travelled lecturer on the subject, it defines specialist techniques in such a way that student artists will benefit immeasurably, and casual readers with a curiosity about art will also be fascinated.

?The book was done for a number of reasons,? the author explains. ?I wrote it to pique the interest of artists and non-artists alike, so it is in part a picture book. For people who ask, ?How does he do that?? it goes into general explanations in a way that is clear enough for non-artists to understand. For people who are interested in a greater degree of detail, I have actually done a couple of pages featuring special demonstrations which show a painting in its completed form, and then show in four or five steps how the painting was done.? Not surprisingly perhaps, the book, in which all illustrations and paintings are in full colour, is also used by Mr. Toogood as a textbook in his classes.

Judging by the positive feedback the author has thus far received, ?Incredible Light & Texture in Watercolour? is shaping up to be a great success.

?A lot of people with a general interest in art, and who are curious about art, are interested in the book,? he says. ?The publishers (North Light Books of Cincinnati, Ohio) are extremely pleased with it, and I have just learned that it is a bestseller for them.?

Indeed, it seems as if there is nothing but good news coming Mr. Toogood?s way these days.

He has also made the front cover of Watercolour Magic magazine?s August edition with his stunning colour scene of Harrington Sound ? this in addition to his article on the inside entitled ?The Simple Truth?, which includes several Bermuda scenes, also in colour.

Then there is the honour of being invited to be a juror for the American Watercolour Society?s 2006 exhibition and competition.

?It is arguably the most prestigious in the world, and certainly the biggest, which attracts people from all over the world,? Mr. Toogood says.

Meanwhile, Friday?s book signing for ?Incredible Light & Texture in Watercolours?, (retailing at $29) will take place at the Bermuda Bookstore between 5.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. All are welcome. The book is also available at Washington Mall Magazines.