[.ca] Encyclopedia Airbrush Techniques (ISBN 0855329866)

An excellent sampler, but no substitute for experience.:
The first half of Michael E. Leek's Encyclopedia of Airbrush Techniques is devoted to technique and real-world examples of how techniques are used. The second half illustrates themes of professional work, and how they exemplify various techniques and design concepts. To a total beginner, this book is filled with detailed steps and explanations, but does not qualify as a first how-to book. The examples and pictures describe brush technique well enough, but do little to enlighten how and where the masking is applied and removed. The photos range from simple to enticing, and are a good basis for practice ideas and experimenting with the airbrush. To an intermediate airbrush artist, the techniques are a good example of method, and may help round out a repertoire of skills. Vivid selections of advanced professional airbrush work cry out for a more advanced book of technique combinations.