Oil Painting Level 2 Short Course

About this course

The course explores oil painting through both representational and abstract approaches, using demonstrations and lectures to examine processes and working methods. Participants develop paintings through self-directed projects, with critical advice provided during the course. Topics include colour harmony, contrast, saturation, values and effective colour mixing, alongside limited palettes, oil glazing and grisaille underpainting. The course also examines composition, reduced paint application and direct painting without preparatory drawing or lines, with an emphasis on achieving fresh, energetic results.

What you'll learn

• Apply colour harmony, contrast, saturation and values to create mood and atmosphere.
• Mix colours effectively and work with a limited palette.
• Use oil glazing and grisaille underpainting techniques.
• Address compositional challenges and reduced paint application.
• Develop direct paintings without drawing or preparatory lines.

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for intermediate to advanced painters who already have knowledge of working in oils. The advanced level suggests a focus on extending established techniques, with participants developing self-directed projects alongside demonstrations, lectures and critical advice.

• Existing knowledge of working in oils is expected.
• The course combines self-directed project work with demonstrations and lectures.