Oil Painting Fundamentals

“Oil Painting Fundamentals” is a four-week course designed to give you a solid, practical introduction to working with oil paints. Whether you’re completely new to oils or looking to build confidence, this course will guide you through the essential materials, techniques, and processes in a relaxed and supportive studio environment.

Meeting on Thursday afternoons (1:00–3:30pm), each session combines demonstration, guided exercises, and time to develop your own studies. By the end of the course, you’ll have a deeper understanding of how oil paint behaves and how to approach your own work with greater confidence and control.

What You’ll Learn

• How to set up your workspace safely and effectively
• Understanding brushes, surfaces, and essential materials
• How to mix colour and create a balanced palette
• Controlling paint consistency using mediums and additives
• The principles of “fat over lean” and paint layering

Techniques We’ll Explore

• Underpainting – building a strong foundation for your work
• Alla prima – direct, wet-into-wet painting
• Layering & glazing – developing depth and richness over time
• Brushwork & mark-making – creating texture and expression
• Palette knife techniques – introducing variety and boldness

What You’ll Create

• A series of small oil studies exploring different techniques
• Colour and tonal exercises to build confidence
• At least one more developed piece bringing your learning together

Who It’s For

• Beginners with no prior experience in oils
• Artists transitioning from acrylic or watercolour
• Anyone looking to loosen up and explore a more painterly approach

Course Details

• Duration: 4 weeks
• Day: Thursdays
• Time: 1:00pm – 3:30pm
• Format: Demonstration, guided practice, and individual support