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
Paint Brushes for Portrait In Oils
Long flats and long filbert brushes in either hog hair or nylon. As well as fine sable or synthetic sables for adding detail. Suggested sizes:
Brush size 10
Brush size 6
Brush size 4
Brush size 2
Fan brush size 2
Small pointed brush (sable or nylon )
Palette knife
Jam jar with lid for mineral spiritsPaint brushes: small sable for detail , large bristle brushes for blocking in , medium bristle for mapping out.
An apron
We will provide a limited palette of colours : Black, Titanium white, Cadmium Red and Yellow Ochre, paper and pallet.
If you wish to bring your own paints and canvas or wood panel you are welcome to do so.
WORKSHOP INFORMATION The workshop runs from 10:00am – 4:00pm Please bring your own lunch.
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.