This is a practical reference book introducing basic materials and processes for a range of traditional, non-traditional, widely used and lesser-known media. It explores the process of drawing and painting and includes the techniques of encaustic, egg tempera, fresco, oil, watercolour and acrylic. The aim of the book is to show that artistic processes are not, in themselves, difficult. Each technique is given its own chapter and students are encouraged to work through the technique from scratch, encountering the work through preparation of the wood panel or canvas, the mixing of pigments and the application of the paint.

Illustrated throughout with historical and contemporary examples of works and with photographs of studio practice, each chapter is accompanied by exercises that encourage the student to explore the creative possibilities of each method.