Fundamentals of Realist Painting

A 5-day workshop of essential oil painting skills | 40 Hours

This workshop welcomes absolute beginners and intermediate-level artists seeking a solid foundation in painting. In a small, focused learning environment, participants discover a comprehensive, step-by-step approach, along with valuable tools and concepts to create realistic oil paintings from start to finish.

Each day begins with a lively theoretical session that clarifies essential principles, followed by immersive hands-on practice. Students embark on a structured painting journey using carefully chosen references that balance challenge and achievement within the workshop timeframe.

In this workshop you will learn:

• Drawing for painting – Develop proven comparison strategies for accuracy and a practical approach to constructing even the most complex drawings

• Light and form theory – Understand how light interacts with the physical world to identify, predict, and effectively portray these interactions on a two-dimensional surface

• Mastering Tonal values – Understand professional techniques for grouping and arranging values to create convincing three-dimensional form with strong visual impact

• Practical colour theory – Ensure successful colour mixing and modelling to elevate paintings to new levels of realism

• Materials and techniques – Gain a thorough understanding of traditional and modern methods, including direct and indirect approaches, surfaces, pigments, binders, additives, application techniques, and key considerations for artworks that stand the test of time

Each workshop day will commence with a theoretical lesson aimed at introducing essential concepts and techniques. This will be complemented by hands-on work on a multi-day project, allowing participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge. Our activities will be based on carefully curated photo references, tailored to align with the time constraints and objectives of each lesson.

Each day opens with a vivid exploration of key concepts, brought to life through dynamic visual presentations. Rather than simply demonstrating techniques, the instructors share the rationale behind each method, empowering students to make informed creative decisions. A progressive painting project anchors the workshop, allowing participants to put new insights into practice immediately. The instructors’ distinctive mentoring style encourages students to find solutions through thoughtful questioning, nurturing independence and deep understanding.

Upcoming Dates & Locations

Mon 11/08/2025 - Fri 15/08/2025
In Collaboration with Zeichenfabrik
Vienna, Austria

Previous

27/09/2024 - 29/09/2024
Larnaka, Cyprus

23/03/2024 - 25/03/2024
Athens, Greece