The Artist Within

by Lauren Walker

I decided to ask my friend Hildy Smith about her experience working with oil paint. My thanks for her help with this month’s article!

Brands of Paint

“I use the artists professional brands, rather than student grade. While more expensive, they are worth the investment because they provide better quality results,” explained Hildy. Brands such as Wìnsor and Newton can range in price from $25-$50, per tube.

“Student grade paints are preferred for priming canvas or blocking in large areas. If you’re just starting to experiment with oil painting, the less expensive brands are a logical investment,” she added. Winsor and Newton Winton Oil Color range in price from $8.99-$25. As you progress and improve, you can spend more on quality paint.

The Pros and Cons

The benefits of using oils is in the blending and drying time which makes the paint very malleable to work with, and the paint pigment retains its vibrancy upon drying. Hildy also reminded, “The challenge of using oils is the same reason as their benefits, the drying time!” The downside is, it can be frustrating to wait for oils to dry before you can progress in certain areas of your painting. Oils can’t be used with water, so you need to use a medium such as turpentine or linseed oil to thin them. Turpentine, for use in thinning and cleaning oils, has improved so much! It is now odourless which is ideal when working indoors.

What’s her advice?

“Paint what appeals to you but just keep painting! It’s a life time learning experience.”

Join an art club, take a class, have fun and paint as much as you can. After awhile, you will find you develop your own style and interest.

See Hildy’s work on Facebook: Hildy H. Smith – Artist

Happy Painting!

The Artist Within

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