First oil painting ever - cast
 

Also, my first work without using photo reference.

This is a painting of a portrait sculpture that is painted plaster. I did this in about two hours in my class. With luck, we'll be having the subject of this sculpture as a sitter later in our class series.

I can't believe how awkward it feels to use a brush and paint! I realize my brushwork and wipe-outs are very rough. I am so spoiled with my pastels. I just need to do a lot more work with brushes to try and get the hang of it. I have a whole new appreciation for wet media!

I did manage a decent likeness of the piece by measuring carefully with my trusty see-thru ruler. :thumbsup:

Don't worry, you know how to draw and that's the essence of painting, you'll master the brush very soon. And remember it is good for a first attempt.
You should visit the students' gallery at http://www.studioincamminati.org/ to see some grisaille studies, they will inspire you.

Keep on painting!

Keep going, Molly! You'll get it. I remember my first experience with oil paints. After one painting I put it away for five years!

Alex

Thank you, Claudemir and Alex!
 

It feels great to get encouragement. :) I have been experimenting this morning and discovered that most of my difficulty stemmed from using too much medium. I'm doing much better with the paint handling without the medium at all.

Claudemir, I have been looking over the Studio Incamminati website for months, now. It is located only an hour from where I live. I would love to study there someday.

Alex, we are practically neighbors! I am in Chester County. I adore your paintings, keep 'em coming!

Hi again, Molly, it's nice to know of more artists in this area! If you are anywhere near Narberth (near Philadelphia), let me know. You can stop by my studio any time.