There are rich and diverse techniques for painting with oil brushes. Here are some key tips that can help you better use oil brushes in your oil painting creation:
First, basic pen-holding and brushstroke techniques
Pen-holding posture
The basic pen-holding posture is similar to that of holding a pencil, but the fingers should be more relaxed to be able to use the brush flexibly.
According to the content and requirements of the painting, one can adjust the pen-holding posture in a timely manner, such as tilting the brush or controlling the tilt of the brush with fingers, to achieve different brushstroke effects.
Brushstroke application
Thick brushstrokes: Use hard-bristled brushes such as pig bristles to apply the paint with a relatively heavy pressure, which is suitable for depicting the texture of a person’s face, the grain of clothing, etc.
Thin brushstrokes: Use soft-bristled brushes such as mink to apply the paint with a relatively light pressure, which is suitable for depicting the delicate texture of the character’s skin.
Crossed brushstrokes: By crossing and superimposing brushstrokes from different directions, the layering and three-dimensional effect of the picture can be enhanced.
Patting strokes: Use the side or back of the brush to apply the paint by patting or tapping. This is suitable for presenting a rough surface texture or special effects.
Wiping brushstrokes: Use a brush or cloth to gently wipe or push on the already colored surface to create a blurred, soft or transitional effect.
Second, color and light and shadow processing
Color matching
According to the creative intention and the effect of the picture, mix the pigments reasonably, and pay attention to the saturation and lightness of the colors.
The skin tone of a character contains many subtle color variations. It is necessary to observe carefully and use a color palette to mix colors to create a realistic and vivid skin tone effect.
Light and shadow performance
Observe the position and intensity of the light source, and express the light and shadow effect through color and contrast of light and shade.
Use lighter colors and bright tones in areas with bright lighting, and darker colors and dark tones in areas with dim lighting.
Pay attention to the expression of shadows and highlights to enhance the three-dimensionality and depth of the characters.
Third, detailed depiction and texture expression
Facial features description
The facial features are the essence of a character. When depicting them, one should be meticulous and avoid being too rigid.
Observe the features of the character such as the eyes, nose and mouth, and depict the Outlines and details of the facial features with delicate brushstrokes.
Clothing and Texture
Pay attention to drawing the pleats, textures and details of the clothing to show its texture and dynamism.
Use different brushstrokes and pigment thicknesses to represent clothing of different materials, such as cotton, silk, leather, etc.
Texture expression
The texture of objects is expressed through the variation of brushstrokes and the thickness of pigments, such as rough tree bark, smooth porcelain, soft hair, etc.
Fourth, background and environment creation
Background selection
Select appropriate background elements, such as landscapes and indoor environments, based on the creative intention and character traits.
Pay attention to the visual relationship and balance between the background and the characters to avoid overshadowing the main focus.
Atmosphere creation
The atmosphere and emotions that match the characters are created through the color, light and shadow, and detail processing of the background.
Use color contrast and light and shade contrast to enhance the spatial sense and layering of the picture.
Fifth, overall composition and picture balance
Composition design
Consider the overall composition of the picture to ensure that the characters occupy appropriate positions in the frame.
Use composition techniques to create balance and visual appeal, such as symmetrical composition and the rule of thirds.
Picture adjustment
During the painting process, one should constantly observe and analyze the effect of the picture, and make adjustments and modifications to the unsatisfactory parts.
Pay attention to the overall effect of the picture and the coordination of detail processing to ensure that the picture is harmonious and unified.
Sixth, other tips and precautions
Keep the picture clean
During the painting process, it is important to keep the picture clean and orderly, and avoid splashing paint onto the canvas or dirtying other items.
Clean the paintbrush regularly
After using the oil painting brush, it should be cleaned and dried in time to keep the brush soft and elastic. When cleaning, you can use professional oil painting brush cleaner or soapy water.
Practice and Observation
Observe more people and scenes in real life to accumulate creative materials and inspiration.
Improve painting skills and artistic expression through continuous practice.