Introduction to oil painting

What is the course about?

Each week we will explore a different aspect of oil painting technique and image-making, through a range of exercises and studies. Methods, techniques, and artists will be matched to each theme. In the final week students will make a personal oil painting inspired by research from the preceding weeks.

What will we cover?

The course begins with an introduction to studio layout, and ways to safely manage materials, including solvent, within a studio setting. You will learn how to lay out a palette and prime a simple painting surface. 

Exercises from artists’ work and observational studies will cover:
• Light and Shade – understanding tonal contrast and painting transitions.
• Colour vibrancy and subtlety through mixing and blending.
• Techniques such as scumbling, drybrush, wet-in-wet, and glazing.
• Complete an oil painting in stages, using a lean-to-rich painting process.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Use good studio practice in relation to oil painting materials.
• Organise a palette in terms of colour and tone.
• Produce a range of small studies using paint with sensitivity to light and colour.
• Employ a range of essential oil painting techniques appropriately.
• Complete an oil painting following a stage-by-stage process.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is for beginners, or painters wanting to understand the essentials of oil painting. Students may have done a short introductory a painting course or equivalent.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, for hand-outs and for health and safety information. You will also be invited to take part in group discussion.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

• Tutor demonstrations
• Paint handling exercises
• One to one guidance
• Group discussion
• Presentations of artists.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring two clean glass jars with lids and kitchen towel. Basic oil painting materials and media will be provided, including paper to prime.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You will be able to progress on to a variety of painting courses, such as Painting 1 or Painting 2, depending on your level, Ways into landscape painting, Oil painting projects, Oil painting: focus on light and shade.