Visual Arts Centre

Did you know that most of the world’s most famous and recognized art pieces are created by oil painting.

What are oil paints exactly made of?

Here is your Oil Painting Guide 101:

  1. What was used before the invention of oil paints?

Giotto – Madonna and Child 

Tempera! Tempera was a protein-based material that was commonly made by mixing colored pigments with a binder such as egg yolk.

 

2. The founder of the modern day oil paints is known to be a famous Belgian painter – Jan van Eyck.

Jan van Eyck – Arnolfini

He invented the first modern day oil paints by mixing pigments with oil from nuts and linseed. His paints are more vibrant and dries quicker.

 

3. In the past, before the invention of paint tubes, people used animal bladders.

Animal bladders were cheap and readily available then.

 

4. In 1841, oil paints became readily available. They are now found in metal tubes and ready to be used.

In the past, artists had to be their own scientists, to grind and mix pigments of their own to create paint. As such, artists often hired apprentices to help them with this chore.

 

5. What are oil paints made up of?

3 main ingredients – pigments: brings colour, thinner: makes the paint runny and binder: connects the two together.

 

6. To find out the age of the oil painting, chemists can analyze the work by examining the chemicals used in the artwork, the cracks on the paint or even the types of varnish used.

This is a way to find out if the painting is authentic or not, and if it dates back to the year it claims to be painted.

Interested to find out more about oil painting and have a hand in this art form?

Come join us in our studio sessions! We have oil painting classes from Monday to Sunday (except Tuesdays and Fridays).

This art course is suitable for learners of all levels!

Find out more about our oil painting classes here! | Visual Arts Centre Oil Painting Art Course

This art course is suitable for learners of all levels!

Find out more about our oil painting classes here! | Visual Arts Centre Oil Painting Art Course

Our Schedule

VISUAL ART CENTRE DHOBY GHAUT STUDIO

CLASS SCHEDULE

TEEN/ADULT CLASS

KIDS CLASS (5-7 YEAR OLD)

CREATIVE JUNIOR CLASS (8-9 YEAR OLD)

Call/WhatsApp: +65-6255-0711 E: [email protected]

MacPherson Art Studio

Call/WhatsApp: +65-6255-0711

CLASS SCHEDULE

*TO BE ENQUIRED

140 Paya Lebar Rd, 03-04 AZ @Paya Lebar Building, S(409015)

Contact us for any enquiries!

Our Location

Dhoby Ghaut Art Studio

Visual arts Centre kids holiday

Address:

10 Penang Road, #01-02 Dhoby Ghaut Green,
Singapore 238469

Exit from Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station Exit B and turn left, we are there in 30m!

MacPherson Art Studio

Visual arts Centre Macpherson kids holiday

Address:

AZ@Paya Lebar, 140 Paya Lebar Road, #03-04,
Singapore 409105

Exit from Macpherson MRT Station Exit A and turn left, we are right across the road, 1 minute walk away!

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