Introduction to oil painting

About this course

The course introduces studio layout, safe handling of oil painting materials, palette organisation and preparation of a simple painting surface. Across themed exercises and observational studies, learners investigate tonal contrast, colour mixing and blending, and techniques including scumbling, drybrush, wet-in-wet and glazing. They will develop paintings progressively using a lean-to-rich process, culminating in a personal oil painting informed by earlier research. Teaching combines tutor demonstrations, paint-handling exercises, individual guidance, group discussion and presentations on artists’ work.

What you'll learn

• Apply good studio practice when handling oil painting materials.
• Organise a palette by colour and tone.
• Produce small studies that respond sensitively to light and colour.
• Use scumbling, drybrush, wet-in-wet and glazing techniques.
• Develop an oil painting through a staged lean-to-rich process.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and for painters seeking an introduction to the essentials of oil painting. Learners may have completed a short introductory painting course, but the source does not specify this as a requirement. Participation includes following demonstrations and written or verbal instructions, as well as taking part in group discussion.

• Learners should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions.
• The course includes group discussion alongside practical exercises and demonstrations.

Before you go

• Basic oil painting media and equipment, including paper for priming, are provided.