ILLUS-2032

INTRODUCTION TO OIL PAINTING

Faculty: Jason Brockert

Course Level: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, 5th Year, Graduate

3 CREDITS

Oil painting is one of the richest, most powerfully expressive artistic mediums in existence. It allows for a vast diversity of approaches and provides the most flexibility of all the painting materials. To take advantage of that potential, certain technical knowledge is essential. This class provides thorough introduction to the novice oil painter with initial classes focused on understanding materials through a variety of life study exercises. Subsequent investigation of color and composition will promote effectively orchestrated compositions. Our ultimate goal will be to make powerful images that marry the variety of painterly possibilities of oil with our own personal vision. The class will balance the technical mastery of our materials with the clarity of effective visual communication.

We will communicate ideas of light and space as a means to explore effective design and color. A major focus will be how to interpret the complexity of our world into luminous and vibrant color and especially the exploration of “warm” versus “cool” color relationships. Visual presentations and visits to the RISD Museum will open our eyes to masters of oil paint both old and new, and they will help serve as our guides. No painting experience is required.