It is difficult to conceive of a more exhaustive book for this medium. In an attractive and abundantly illustrated format, MacKenzie lays out everything he knows and has discovered about the medium. Part 1 elaborates on the tools of the trade, their characteristics, how to choose them and care for them: the colors themselves (extremely enlightening as to which pigments to use for what), brushes paper, palettes (and how to make one), palette knives, sponges and masking materials. Part 2 discusses painting techniques using diverse tools, the laws of paint/water interaction, washes and glazes, masking... Part 3, which alone takes up half the book, focuses on composition with great tips, a few walkthroughs and how to save a piece (if possible at all) when we messed up! This is only a brief overview of the contents. The book is just crammed with substantial info and tips.

By the time I bought this book, I had been using watercolors for a few years but without any formal education, which was limiting. The book helped fill the gaps and inspire new ways of working. The intermediate price is in my opinion a bargain considering you won't need another book on the subject, just personal practice. I believe beginners will greatly benefit from it, and seasoned watercolorists may also find it a valuable reference to keep at hand.

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