ARTS 241
Introduction to Oil Painting Spring 2025 (also offered Fall 2024)
Division I

This course is an exploration of the basic techniques of oil painting. We will push paint in color and form to wildly varying ends, each student being encouraged to develop a personal relationship to the materials. We begin with color theory: students will learn to identify, feel, and modulate value, chroma, and temperature. They will build their capacities to see and translate from observation, navigating the relationship between painting and drawing along the way. We will cover the basics of stretching canvas, priming surfaces, and using mediums, so that students can carry their painting practices forward after the semester ends. Group critiques and discussions will help us hone our skills of looking and talking about work; presentations and readings will offer insights into the theory and global history of painting. Students should expect to dedicate upwards of 10 hrs/wk to their work outside of class.