I am fortunate enough to have László Adóba’s first two books in this series Building Dioramas Stone Objects and Accessories in my collection; both of which are equally helpful and inspirational in working with making key details for any diorama. Now I am thrilled to have the opportunity to have László’s latest book in the series titled simply Building Dioramas 3.

This latest book is a photographic step by step guide to constructing miniature landscapes for dioramas and vignettes. Using his unique style of common product usage and application, László walk the reader through all the steps to create ultra-realistic finishes for any diorama. There are four chapters contained within this 104 page book.

By László Adóba
Published by Costa Bt.
ISBN 978-963-12-3221-9
Pages – 104
© László Adóba
MSRP - $26.00 US / 23.55 € / 7350 HUF

Contents

• Forward
• Chapter I – In The Forest
• Chapter II – Abandoned Ruin
• Chapter III – Attacked By Wolves
• Chapter IV – Lonely Rider

László Adóba uses four separate builds of dioramas to cover a wide range of natural scene depictions within this book. The First Chapter, In the Forest covers the intricate detailing of a thick forest scene. Each of the aspects that would typically be seen in the forest or thick woods is painstakingly shown step by step throughout this chapter. From laying the rocky ad stick laden riverbed to the thickly covered ground effects of the forest floor. László systematically covers all of the materials and techniques used to tie all of the natural elements together and conveying this message to the reader through detailed text and full color photographs showing the application.

This tutorial continues as László brings us out of the forest and into the past with the second chapter, Abandoned Ruin. In this chapter, the author incorporates many of the techniques shown to us in the first book of the series, Stone Objects. Through the use of commonly gathered materials, László is able to show the reader how to make complex stone and wood structures and seamlessly bring the natural realism of ground covering and foliage to life around the object. Again we are shown every step of the process and learn some new tricks for making natural damage and decay that occurs after long periods of neglect of manmade structures.

In Chapter III, Attacked By Wolves, we are shown the intricate detailing of a wintery snow scene and more complex water usage. László walks us through construction of a stone arch bridge traversing a moving stream. He covers the stone creation of both the bridge and bed to the stream and brings the elements of snow and ice into the scene. He shows us a simple, yet effect way to obtain not only the movement of the water but the convincing static nature of the ice created around the water. Through simple construction process and again common materials, László shares amazing insight on creating a realistic winter diorama.

Lastly, but certainly not the least, László elevates us above the thick dense covering of the forest to much rockier terrain in the fourth chapter, Lonely Rider. Here the author creates larger stone-like pieces while still incorporating water into the theme. We see how to construct a deep river gorge with a fast moving semi-translucent river passing through it. After the rocky surfaces are in place, László shows us more step by steps applications to obtaining the realistic water effects he is known for. Also, we learn the amazing art of tree constructing trees with several large pines that towner over this diorama.

Conclusion

The quick and easy way to put this is, László Adóba’s Building Dioramas 3 is a MUST HAVE….period! László is an excellent teacher of the art of Dioramas. He is able to explain what materials he uses and how they can be applied into a scene. Alone, the photographic display of each chapter is enough to show us the way to take out diorama construction to the next level. There are a few minor grammatical errors here and there within the book…but to be honest, The photos do most of the work here and none of the message from the Author/Artist is lost…I probably have more mistakes within this review!

László Adóba prides himself in being able to create many of the features of his dioramas through the use of common, everyday products found around us. From expanded and extruded polystyrene to clear acetate leftover from products we buy…to even cardboard and paper, he finds a use for all of it in his work. If you are seriously wanting to bring up the level of your diorama construction or simply learn about how to make amazing displays, Building Dioramas 3 is certainly a huge step forward in getting there. László Adóba has created another winner this book! High Recommended!