Oil Painting- Blending & Brush Choice

July 16 - August 27, 2025

7 weeks, Wednesdays, 6-8:30pm

Instructor: Maxine Thirteen

In this class, students will focus on brush choices and application techniques for painting and blending with oil paints. Throughout the 7 weeks, topics covered will include: blending, value, brushwork, layering, fat over lean, lighting, color mixing, gradation, taking your painting beyond the reference, and using composition and color to create a story in your work.

The first two weeks will consist of painting exercises to practice and improve your skills in blending, and to familiarize students with particular brushes and application techniques. Weeks 3 through 7 will be spent planning and creating 11x14” portrait paintings. Students can use reference photos Maxine will provide, or bring in their own.

The goal of this class will be to hone your skills with oils and apply what you learn from the painting exercises to your final portrait. Throughout that process, students will focus on blending techniques, brush choices, and capturing light and shadow. Maxine will demonstrate her own process and provide tips and input to each participant throughout the classes. Students will be encouraged to choose unusual color combinations, explore interesting ways to compose their portraits, consider how color choices will affect the impact of their painting, and experiment with creative freedom and individuality as they paint.

Skill Level: Students will benefit from having basic knowledge of drawing and painting. Some experience using oil paints specifically is helpful, but not required. Recommended ages: 16 and up.

See material list for required supplies

Member $160 | Non-member $210

If you must cancel, please email (info@stlouisartistsguild.org) or call STLAG. A refund will be given only if cancellation occurs seven days prior to the first day of class. No exceptions. Refunds will be processed minus a $25 withdrawal fee per course registration.

St. Louis Artists Guild is committed to providing educational experiences to as many people as possible. We are pleased to offer sliding-scale scholarships to make classes and workshops more accessible to our community, adults & children. If you are interested in scholarship information please contact Kathryn Nahorski, Membership and Development Director, at knahorski@stlouisartistsguild.org