Introduction to Photorealism for Oil Painting

Finding the underlying beauty in the mundane and recreating it with a paintbrush is an artform Christopher Paul Stevens knows all about. As a professional studio painter, Chris embraces all forms of technology when reproducing photorealistic pieces. His work can be found in galleries throughout the United States and Canada, and has been commissioned by companies like the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

In this online course, learn how to paint a realistic image with oils. Recreate the effects of photography with paint and brushes and elevate an ordinary scene to a striking work of art.

Begin the course by getting to know Chris. He shares his creative journey as a professional studio artist, which spans over a decade. Hear about the artists and artwork that have inspired him over the years.

Get an overview of the materials and tools needed for the course. Learn the principles of design and how they are used to create a dynamic composition. Based on these principles, select a subject as your reference for the painting. Chris then discusses the importance of creating depth and the illusion of 3D on a 2D surface.

Next, learn how to transfer your reference image onto a canvas by creating a grid, both in Photoshop and by hand with a pencil. Chris then shows you how to tone your canvas and mix your colors to match.

Time to start painting! Learn how to apply the paint to the canvas by blocking in basic shapes before adding more details. Chris guides you through the process of glazing your painting with thin layers of color to give it a more professional finish with a photographic feel. Get an overview of how to protect your work from damage with varnish and other materials. Lastly, hear Chris’s tips on the best ways to present your work through either social media or directly in a gallery.

Create a realistic oil on canvas painting that, at first glance, appears to be a photograph.

This course is designed for anyone who is interested in realistic painting or anyone who would like to expand their oil painting techniques.

No prior knowledge is needed to take this course, but basic notions of drawing and painting are helpful.

To take this course, you need a printed photograph, a canvas, oil paint, paintbrushes, paint thinner, a pencil, an eraser, a ruler, linseed oil, and varnish. Photoshop is optional if you wish to create your grid digitally.