Oil painting (
Shop Oil Paint) has been a widespread painting medium since the Dutch developed it in the fourteenth century. Although oil painting appears complicated, once you know the process its not as daunting as it may seem. Simply put, one needs only the paints, a solvent or medium, something to paint on. and an assortment of brushes.
The Paints
Oil paints are made from pigments (the same ones found in watercolours, acrylics, artist pastels, oil sticks, etc.) ground with a binder (usually linseed oil, safflower oil, or walnut oil), and (again, like all artist colours) are categorized into "artist" or "student" quality. Artist quality oils contain more pigment while student quality oils contain less pigment, and are therefore less expensive. Also, a greater variety of colours is available in artist-quality oils, than in the student grade oil paints. As with all artist colours, keep in mind that even though a colour in two different brands may have the same
name, it might not be exactly the same colour, out of the tube. It is always a good idea to test different brands until you find your favorites. Higher quality oil paints are worth their initial investment because a little amount of paint goes a long way.
Techniques
Artists have used numerous techniques to paint in oils over the centuries. From complex, multi-layered studio paintings, to quick, expressive
alla prima (all at once) paintings painted
en plein aire (outdoors) artists have used oil paints to express any subject, in almost any style, that can be expressed.
A good way to find which technique suits you, is to find out what techniques were used to make your favourite oil paintings!
Watercolors
Watercolors made their mark in art history, dating back to cave art. They are also the most convenient and approachable painting application for the beginning artist. Watercolor paints are easy to apply – just add water and a bit of creativity. The only other items you need are brushes and paper.
The pigments used in creating watercolors are similar to those used in oils or acrylics, they can also be used in watercolor pans in a dry form. Some are natural and some synthetic. These pigments are ground and mixed with a natural sap binder called gum Arabic. The most sophisticated watercolors also contain glycerin as a moisturizer. Watercolor paints are sold in grades created for both the student and professional. Student paints offer an economical way to experiment with the media while professional paints are more expensive because they contain a higher concentration of better quality pigments. Watercolor paints can be bought in pans which offer the most convenience and tubes that are especially useful when mixing large amounts of paint. Watercolors are also available in concentrated liquid form in bottles with an eye dropper. These are useful for large washes but, because they are essentially dyes, they lack the subtle qualities available with pans or tubes.
