Oil Painting Materials I Use

Oil Painting Materials I Use

People often ask about the oil painting materials I use. For example, what paints do I choose, and why do I hand-stretch my canvas? Each choice plays a part in the paintings I create.

I have been painting in oils for over 50 years. At first, I painted realistic landscapes. Over time, however, I wanted more freedom to explore color, line and space. As a result, my work gradually became abstract.

Why I Use Professional Oil Paint

The quality of my materials matters to me. Therefore, I choose professional-grade artists’ oil paints from several manufacturers. Each offers different colors and qualities.

Rather than choosing one brand, I enjoy mixing different “flavors” of color. After all, why limit my palette when there are so many shades to explore?

For me, mixing paint is part of the creative process. For example, a new color combination can change the direction of a painting or lead to something unexpected.

In addition, paints vary in texture and consistency. Some feel firmer under the brush, while others flow more easily. As a result, I can explore different kinds of brushwork within the same painting.

Working With Painting Mediums

Along with oil paints, I use painting mediums, including stand oil, copal medium and Venice turpentine. These help me adjust how the paint feels and moves beneath my brush.

Depending on the medium, they can also affect transparency, surface sheen and drying time. For example, I may use a medium to help the paint flow more easily as I work.

As I build layers of color, I explore the relationship between new brushwork and the paint beneath it. With each layer, the painting gradually gains depth and richness.

Why I Hand-Stretch My Canvas

I have always hand-stretched my canvases because preparing the surface is part of creating the artwork.

First, I stretch raw canvas over a wooden frame. Then, I prepare and prime the surface before painting. In this way, I take part in creating the work from the very beginning.

The photograph below shows freshly stretched canvases, ready for priming.

Materials Behind My Abstract Paintings

Every finished painting begins with these choices. Together, the canvas, oil paints and mediums help me explore color, line and movement. Above all, I choose materials that support the way I paint.

• Professional-grade artists’ oil paints from several brands.
• Canvas stretched and prepared by hand.
• Painting mediums chosen for the way I work.
• Layers of oil color and individual brushstrokes.
• Original paintings by Laurie Rubell in Glen Allen, Virginia.
• Studio visits available by appointment.
• Professional-grade artists’ oil paints from several brands.
• Canvas stretched and prepared by hand.
• Painting mediums chosen for the way I work.
• Layers of oil color and individual brushstrokes.
• Original paintings by Laurie Rubell in Glen Allen, Virginia.
• Studio visits available by appointment.

Explore my original oil paintings

https://laurierubell.com > Collections › original-abstract-oil-painting-laurie-rubell-contemporary-art

Explore Maimeri artist paints

https://www.maimeri.it/en

Explore Schmincke oil paints

http://www.schmincke.de/en/know-how/oil

Explore Michael Harding oil paints

https://michaelharding.co.uk/