Portrait Painting in Oils

​Painting a Portrait in Oils Using a Limited Palette

​This one-day workshop is designed for intermediate artists with some previous drawing or painting experience, who would like to develop their skills in portrait painting with oils. Working from a provided reference photograph, we will explore how to build a portrait using a limited colour palette, focusing on observation, proportion, tonal structure and thoughtful colour mixing.

​The day will begin by establishing the pose and carefully mapping out the head, using an underpainting to help define the structure and proportions of the face. We will look at the key relationships between the features and how to create a convincing likeness without becoming overly concerned with detail. We will then identify the main areas of light and dark, blocking in the tonal structure of the portrait before developing colour. Particular attention will be given to mixing colour strings and understanding how a limited palette can create a harmonious and cohesive painting.

​The workshop offers a practical and focused introduction to the process of building an oil portrait, while encouraging a confident and painterly approach to colour, tone and brushwork.

​THE VENUE The workshop will take place in the Long Barn at Meon Springs, an inspiring setting in the Meon Valley, Hampshire, offering a calm and supportive environment for learning and creativity.

​WHO IS IT FOR? This one-day workshop is designed for intermediate artists with some previous drawing or painting experience, who would like to develop their skills in portrait painting.

​WHAT TO BRING Oil Paint colours: Black, Titanium white, Cadmium Red, Yellow. Ochre Paint brushes small sable for detail , large bristle brushed for blocking in Stretched canvas or Canvas panel or wood panel or canvas paper Tear-off disposable paper pallett An apron

​WORKSHOP INFORMATION The workshop runs from 10:00am – 4:00pm Please bring your own lunch.

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​YOUR TUTOR

​Livvy Stainer is a Hampshire-based portrait artist & tutor specializing in children and adult portraiture. With 30 years of professional experience in drawing and painting she trained at Heatherleys School of Art in London, obtaining a Higher Diploma in Portraiture & Figurative Art. With a background in design and illustration she relocated to Hampshire 20 years ago, and dedicated herself to painting and teaching.