Painting technique books?

[bizzylizzy]

I hope this is in the right section. If not I apologise everyone.
My husband is a designer and illustrator and is talking about painting again. Obviously he's more experienced than a hobbyist but hasn't painted for a few years. I was wondering if anyone knew of a decent book I could give him for Christmas about technique, brushes, new paints that are now available etc. It would need to be fairly technical as he is already experienced in this field. I'm just desperately clutching at straws for Christmas pressys here!! Thanks everyone and a Happy Christmas to you all.

[rampart]

Here you go!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0376013885/002-9557343-7172819?v=glance&n=283155

Now, what do I get my wife? She has everything.

[bizzylizzy]

Oh sorry Rampart, I think I must have given everyone the wrong end of the stick. I'm talking about 'proper' painting, like portraiture etc. not home decorating. Silly me for not making myself clear.

Hope you find a lovely gift for your wife ... you'd better :-)

[rampart]

Oh... Yes, I am a bit off the mark here! Well, what if you stopped at a local art museum and toured the gift shop and perhaps asked a docent. That might give a promising lead!

[ursula62]

Depends what type of painting he wants to do... there are some excellent books around - e.g. "The Encyclopaedia of Acrylic Techniques" or "The Encyclopaedia of Watercolour Techniques". As well has having detailed explanation of the techniques they also have examples of artists' work and show you how various parts of the painting were done. I wouldn't be without my copies! They are still in print - squareish paperbacks, about 9 or 10 inches in size. I think both are by Hazel Harrison.