Fine Arts: Solvent-Free Oil Painting

Discover the joy of oil painting with a solvent-free, eco-conscious approach. This six-week class explores the essentials of alla prima painting—working directly and expressively with color, light, and form. You’ll learn to mix colors from a limited palette and create paintings from your own sketches, photos, or still life setups.

Supportive critiques and personalized feedback will help you grow your skills and confidence while developing a mindful, sustainable painting practice. This class welcomes artists of all levels, from beginners to experienced painters looking to refresh their skills or explore a solvent-free approach.

MATERIALS:

If you already have some oil paints, please bring them to class and we will work with your selection. Supplies can be purchased at Rochester Art Supply, Michaels, or online. If you don’t have supplies, here is what you need to get started:

PAINTS:

- Napthol Red (or equivalent)

- Ultramarine Blue

- Hansa Yellow Light (or equivalent)

- Titanium White

SURFACES:

Canvas panel or gessoed panels in a variety of sizes, preferably 11 x 14, or 8 x 10 and smaller (Dollar Tree has very inexpensive canvas panels, great for experimentation)

- Palette (I like a metal cookie sheet from Dollar Tree!)

- Brushes: a least one of each, not too small! (4-6) Filbert #6, Flat #6, Round #4

- Gamblin Solvent-free Gel or Liquid or other solvent-free medium

ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES TO PUT IN YOUR KIT:

- Pencils/Eraser

- Charcoal

- Sketch paper

- Palette knives/scrapers/painting knives

- Paint removing tools (Wipe-out tool)

- Rags/Paper towels

- Baby wipes (alcohol wipes do not work)

- Latex gloves (optional)

- Apron

- Vegetable oil and small covered container

- Photo references or journal