Impressionism and realism are two popular styles of oil painting. Impressionism emphasises capturing the essence or mood of a scene rather than creating an exact representation. Realism, on the other hand, aims to create a painting that accurately represents the subject. Both styles offer a unique perspective and allow artists to create beautiful and expressive works of art.
Methods to delve into painting
The oil painting has been a staple in the art world for centuries, and yet it continues to captivate contemporary artists and art enthusiasts alike. From its origins in the Renaissance era to the modern techniques of today, oil painting has undergone a continuous evolution that has produced a rich and varied array of styles. In this article, we will take a journey through the history of oil painting, exploring its evolution and the techniques that have emerged along the way. We will also delve into the intricacies of contemporary oil painting styles, examining the works of some of the most notable artists of our time and the essential tools and techniques they use to create their stunning masterpieces.
The allure of contemporary oil painting lies in its ability to capture the essence of the human experience through a range of styles and techniques. Whether it’s the expressive brushstrokes of abstract expressionism or the precision and detail of photorealism, contemporary oil painting offers an unparalleled level of depth and complexity. Through our exploration of the fascinating world of popular contemporary oil painting styles, we will delve into the different ways in which artists use color, texture, and composition to convey their unique perspectives on the world. From the bold and vibrant to the subtle and subdued, contemporary oil painting continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with this timeless medium.
What Makes Contemporary Oil Painting So Captivating?
What makes contemporary oil painting so captivating is its versatility and ability to evoke emotions and convey meaning through its intricate textures and vivid colors. Unlike other forms of painting, oil painting allows for an incredible amount of detail and depth, resulting in richness and complexity that can truly captivate the viewer. Whether it’s the expressive and bold brushstrokes of Willem de Kooning’s abstract expressionism or the intricate and lifelike portraits of Jenny Saville, contemporary oil painting offers an unparalleled level of nuance and depth that can leave a lasting impression on the viewer.
Furthermore, the fact that oil paintings are often created over some time, with layers of paint added gradually, gives them a sense of history and narrative that further enhances their appeal. It’s no wonder that contemporary oil painting continues to be a beloved and influential art form, captivating viewers and inspiring artists around the world.
A Journey through the Evolution of Oil Painting
The oil painting has a rich history that spans centuries, with each era marked by its own unique styles and techniques. In the 15th century, Flemish painters like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling revolutionized oil painting by developing new methods for layering and blending colors, resulting in works with greater depth and realism. This technique was exemplified in the Ghent Altarpiece, created by van Eyck, which used glazes to create a stunning sense of luminosity.
In the Baroque era of the 17th century, artists like Caravaggio and Rembrandt used chiaroscuro to create dramatic contrasts between light and dark, resulting in works with an intense emotional impact. Rembrandt’s famous self-portraits are a prime example of this technique, as the artist used the contrast between light and shadow to create a sense of depth and texture.
In the 19th century, Impressionists, such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, sought to capture the fleeting effects of light and color in their works. This was exemplified in Monet’s Water Lilies series, which depicted the play of light on the water’s surface with a stunning array of colors and brushstrokes.
Post-Impressionists, such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne, experimented with bold and expressive brushstrokes and vivid colors, paving the way for Expressionism and Fauvism in the early 20th century. Later, Abstract Expressionists such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko used unconventional techniques, such as dripping and pouring paint, to create works that were bold, emotional, and highly abstract.
Through these distinct eras, we can see how oil painting has evolved and adapted to the changing artistic landscape, while still retaining its fundamental beauty and appeal. From the realism of the Flemish masters to the abstraction of the 20th century, oil painting continues to captivate and inspire artists and art lovers alike.
Exploring the Fascinating World of Popular Contemporary Oil Painting Styles
Exploring the fascinating world of popular contemporary oil painting styles is an adventure in itself. From the realism of figurative paintings to the expressive strokes of abstract expressionism, contemporary oil painting styles offer a diverse range of techniques and aesthetics that capture the imagination of both artists and art enthusiasts alike.
One popular style is photorealism, which involves creating highly realistic images that resemble photographs. This style is exemplified in the works of Chuck Close and Richard Estes. Another popular style is Pop Art, which incorporates images from popular culture and advertising. The works of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein are prime examples of this style. Impressionism, which captures the fleeting effects of light and color, is another popular style that emerged in the late 19th century. The works of Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir have celebrated examples of impressionist paintings. Whether you’re an artist or an art lover, exploring contemporary oil painting styles is a captivating journey into the ever-evolving world of art.
Essential Techniques and Tools of Contemporary Oil Painting
Oil painting is a traditional art form that has been around for centuries and has continued to evolve with contemporary techniques and tools. Today, artists have a wide range of materials at their disposal to create stunning oil paintings that captivate and inspire. Here are the essential techniques and tools of contemporary oil painting:
Priming is the process of applying a primer to the canvas to prepare it for painting. The primer helps to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to and prevents the oil in the paint from seeping into the canvas.
Underpainting is a base layer of paint that establishes the overall color and tone of the painting. This layer is typically applied in a thin, transparent wash, and is used as a guide for subsequent layers of paint.
Layering involves building up layers of paint to create depth and texture in the painting. This technique is achieved by applying subsequent layers of paint over previous layers that have already dried.
Blending involves mixing colors on the canvas to create subtle transitions and gradients. This is typically done with a brush or using a palette knife to mix the colors on the canvas.
Glazing involves applying thin, translucent layers of paint over dry layers to create a luminous effect. This technique is often used to create a sense of depth and atmosphere in a painting.
Alla prima is a painting technique where the painting is completed in one sitting. This technique is often used in plein-air painting, where the artist works quickly to capture the fleeting effects of light and color.
Wet-on-wet is a technique where paint is applied to the wet paint to create a smooth, blended effect. This technique is often used to create soft edges and transitions between colors.
Drybrush is a technique where a dry brush is used to create texture and detail on the canvas. This technique is achieved by using a brush that has very little paint on it, which creates a broken, textured effect.
Palette knives are used to mix paint and create thick, impasto textures. This technique is achieved by applying paint in thick, chunky layers, which creates a three-dimensional effect on the canvas.
A variety of brushes are used in contemporary oil painting to apply paint to the canvas and create different effects. Flat brushes are used for broad strokes, while round brushes are used for detail work.
Solvents are used to thin or clean oil paint, such as turpentine or mineral spirits. These solvents can also be used to create a range of effects in the painting, such as creating a smooth, blended effect.
Mediums are added to the paint to alter its consistency or drying time, such as linseed oil or liquid. These mediums can also be used to create a range of effects, such as increasing the transparency of the paint or creating a glossy finish.
These techniques and tools are essential for contemporary oil painters to achieve the desired effects and create stunning works of art. From the foundational techniques of priming and underpainting to the more advanced techniques of glazing and dry brushing, each tool and technique has its unique role to play in the creation of a masterpiece.
Notable Contemporary Oil Painters and Their Inspiring Work
The world of contemporary oil painting is filled with countless talented artists who continue to push the boundaries of the medium. Some notable contemporary oil painters and their inspiring work include:
A German painter is known for his abstract and photorealistic paintings. His 1986 painting, “Abstraktes Bild,” sold for a record-breaking $44.52 million in 2015.
A British painter is known for her large-scale figurative paintings. Her work explores themes of beauty, gender, and the body. Her painting, “Propped,” sold for $12.4 million in 2018.
A British painter is known for her vibrant, abstract paintings that often reference art history. Her painting, “Untitled (Blood Thicker Than Water),” sold for $5.5 million in 2018.
A Scottish painter known for his dreamlike, atmospheric landscapes. His painting, “The Architect’s Home in the Ravine,” sold for $20 million in 2019.
An American painter is known for her portraits that challenge traditional notions of identity and beauty. She gained national attention for her portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama, which was unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery in 2018.
These artists, and many others like them, continue to inspire and captivate audiences with their skillful and innovative use of the medium. Through their work, they push the boundaries of what is possible with oil painting and create powerful, thought-provoking pieces that continue to resonate with viewers long after they leave the gallery.
Our Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, contemporary oil painting is a fascinating and captivating art form that continues to inspire and challenge artists and viewers alike. From its humble beginnings in ancient times to its evolution through the Renaissance and beyond, oil painting has proven to be a versatile and adaptable medium that has continued to evolve and flourish in the modern era. Its ability to capture the richness and depth of color, texture, and emotion has made it a favorite medium of artists throughout the ages.
Through exploring the fascinating world of popular contemporary oil painting styles, we can gain a deeper appreciation for how artists continue to innovate and push the boundaries of the medium. From the bold and expressive strokes of Abstract Expressionism to the intricate and hyper-realistic techniques of Hyperrealism, contemporary oil painting offers an endless array of possibilities for artists and viewers alike. By understanding the essential techniques and tools of contemporary oil painting and exploring the works of notable contemporary oil painters, we can gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the medium.
Discovering the intricacies of contemporary oil painting styles is an exciting journey that offers a wealth of opportunities for artistic exploration and discovery. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of art, there has never been a better time to explore the magic and wonder of contemporary oil painting and all the incredible possibilities it has to offer. So, grab your brushes and paints, and let your creativity take flight as you explore this fascinating and captivating world of art.
Classical Painting Techniques
In this course, we will delve into a variety of classical painting methods, such as oil painting, egg tempera, tempera grassa, limited palette, glazing techniques, working with mediums, and preparing canvases and panels using Gesso di Bologna.
Additionally, we will learn how to create colours using powdered pigments. During the first part of the course, our focus will be on the art of replicating a masterpiece by an old master using traditional materials.
In the second part, we will have the opportunity to paint a live model and put into practice the techniques and materials we have learned throughout the course.
Join us on this artistic journey as we explore the captivating world of classical painting techniques and discover how to apply them in both traditional and contemporary contexts.
Thursdays
11 January – 21 March 2023 / 6.30pm – 9.00pm
11 weeks / No half term break
Tutor: Gianluca Rotelli
Course #: TH08
Materials List
Suggested Materials List
Brushes
• Brushes N4 to N12 Cornelissen Series 44 Hog Bristle Filbert
• Wooden palette approx 25 x 35cm
• Painting knife size 1 to 3 (for mixing colours on the palette)
• Dipper – double dipper ideally
Odourless thinners (turpentine and white spirit not permitted in school)
Sansodor is most commonly is fine.
Miscellaneous
• Jam jar (for cleaning of brushes)
• A roll of paper kitchen towel or similar (for cleaning brushes as you paint)
Painting Medium – optional and we can discuss the merits of using painting mediums later on. Fundamental basis medium is ” Linseed oil”.
• Linseed oil
• Walnut oil
• Poppy oil
• Mastic varnish
• Damar varnish
• Larch Venice Turpentine
• Roberson Siccative
Oil Paints
Needed on first day
• White lead, Cremnitz White (Michael Harding)
• Titanium White
• Yellow Ochre
• Cadmium Red light
• Cobalt blue deep
• Burnt Umber
• Ivory black (All preferably artist’s quality – Old Holland, Michael Harding)
Drawing Materials
• Artist Sketchbook (A4)
• Drawing pencils “3H to 2B”
• Conte pencil and / or sticks (white, black)
• Putty Rubber
• Masking Tape
Advanced Oil Painting Techniques
Oil painting has been a beloved art form for centuries, with artists developing a wide array of techniques that incorporate various colours, pigments, and textures. In this article, we will explore some of the advanced techniques that professional oil painters use today to create their masterpieces.
Abstract Painting Techniques
Abstract painting is a popular style that is often characterised by bold colours, dynamic shapes, and unusual brushwork. Advanced abstract painters rely on a variety of techniques, including pouring, dripping, and splattering paint, to create texture and depth. They also use unconventional tools, like stencils or credit cards, to apply paint to the canvas in new and interesting ways.
Portrait and Figure Painting Tips
Creating realistic and lifelike portraits and figures requires both technical skills and careful observation. Advanced artists employ a range of techniques, including understanding facial structure and layering paint to create depth and volume. They also pay close attention to light and shadow to give the subjects a three-dimensional appearance. In essence, portrait and figure painting require a mastery of both technical skills and an artistic eye.
Landscape Painting Techniques
Landscape painting can be a challenging genre for artists due to the intricate and complex nature of natural environments. Advanced landscape painters utilise various techniques like glazing and impasto to create a sense of texture and depth. Moreover, they also take into consideration factors like colour temperature, atmospheric perspective, and shadow hues to create a vivid and immersive experience for the viewer. In essence, landscape painting requires advanced technical skills and creativity to accurately capture the essence and grandeur of natural scenery.
Using Metallic and Iridescent Pigments for Enhancing Paintings
Advanced painters often experiment with new and unusual pigments, such as metallic or iridescent paints, to create stunning visual effects within their art pieces.
In conclusion, oil painting is a versatile and rewarding art form that offers a wealth of advanced techniques for artists to explore. By experimenting with new and unusual colours, pigments, and textures, you can develop your style as an advanced oil painter and create stunning pieces of art that amaze and inspire.
Professional Level Oil Painting Techniques
Oil painting is an art form that has been admired by many throughout history. As artists develop their oil painting skills, they can experiment with different surfaces, create a strong composition, and display their artwork in galleries with proper marketing. In this article, we will explore professional level oil painting techniques.
Experimenting with Different Surfaces
Professional-level artists often experiment with different surfaces that can be used for oil painting. By choosing a surface that complements the painting, artists can create unique and stunning pieces of art. A few examples of surfaces that can be used include:
Mastering Composition, Perspective, and Proportional Techniques
A successful oil painting requires a strong composition, which can be achieved using various techniques employed by professional artists. The rule of thirds, focal points, and the golden ratio are popular techniques used by artists to create well-balanced compositions. Additionally, perspective techniques like one-point and two-point perspective can be used to create a sense of depth and space within the painting. Proportional techniques such as the comparative method also play an important role in ensuring accurate proportions for the subject. Employing these techniques can help create a visually stunning and harmonious painting.
Tips for Successful Gallery Presentation and Marketing
Artists should consider several factors when presenting their artwork in galleries. In the gallery, the artist should emphasise the impact of their artwork, providing viewers with basic information and promotional material. A few essential tips for successful gallery presentation and marketing include:
Conclusion
Oil painting is a versatile art form that offers a wide range of techniques for artists of all levels to create stunning works of art. Beginners may start with basic techniques like canvas priming and colour mixing, while experienced artists may explore advanced techniques such as abstract painting and using metallic pigments. In the world of oil painting, there is always something new to learn, and continued learning and experimentation can help artists grow their skills and create even more impressive works of art. Don’t hesitate to try out new techniques, take classes, and push the boundaries of your creativity with oil painting!
Q: What are the basic oil painting techniques for beginners?
A: Basic oil painting techniques for beginners include priming a canvas, colour mixing, understanding brushstrokes, and learning how to paint using different layers.
Q: How can I control colour mixing in oil painting?
A: To control colour mixing in oil painting, it is essential to understand the colour wheel and the relationships between different colours. Using a limited palette, regularly cleaning your brushes, and mixing small amounts of paint at a time can all help control colour mixing.
Q: What are the differences between impressionism and realism styles in oil painting?
A: Impressionism focuses on capturing the feeling or impression of a scene, while realism aims to create a painting that is an accurate representation of the subject.
Q: How can I create texture in oil painting?
A: There are several ways to create texture in oil painting, including using impasto medium, applying paint with a palette knife or other textured tool, and using scumbling and glazing techniques.
Q: What are the underpainting techniques used in oil painting?
A: Underpainting techniques include using a monochromatic or limited colour painting, creating a layer of colour that will show through when additional layers are added, and using a complementary colour as an underpainting.
Q: What are the advanced oil painting techniques for portraits and figures?
A: Advanced oil painting techniques for portraits and figures include understanding the structure of the human face, building up layers of colour to create depth and volume, and paying close attention to light and shadow to create a sense of dimensionality.
Q: What are the best ways to use metallic and iridescent pigments in oil painting?
A: Metallic and iridescent pigments can be mixed with oil paint to create a variety of shimmering colours and textures. These pigments are often used to create highlights or to add interest and depth to the painting.
Q: How can I experiment with different surfaces in oil painting?
A: To experiment with different surfaces in oil painting, try using canvas, panels, or Belgian linen. Each surface provides an entirely different look, and experimenting with different surfaces will help you find what works best for your style and technique.
Q: What are the benefits of mastering composition, perspective, and proportional techniques in oil painting?
A: Mastering composition, perspective, and proportional techniques in oil painting will help you create a strong and balanced painting. These techniques also allow you to create depth and dimensionality within your canvas.
Q: What are some tips for successful gallery presentation and marketing in oil painting?
A: Some tips for successful gallery presentation and marketing in oil painting include having a clear vision and concept behind your artwork, presenting your latest pieces to your audience, getting your artwork professionally photographed, and c reating a personal brand that appeals to your target audience.
Additional Readings
