Chris, I started painting over 20 years ago watching Bob Ross. I will forever cherish him, but I haved moved on to other techniques over the years. The internet is a Godsend to a self taught artist. You have contributed that gift to self taught artists everywhere. Your videos are to the point and your coaching is fantastic. Thank you!
Great video. You'll see my notes to you. I'm 64 yrs old... a semi-retired photographer, currently living in San Antonio, TX. I took art/painting in high school and studied photography in art school. I didn't get my degree, but have a good foundation. I'm thinking of using my photography over the last 30+ yrs for my painting. We'll see how it goes.
Hey, Chris, quality content as always! 😁😁😁 I wanted to share a tool I've found useful. If I'm painting a landscape of an actual existing place, using Google Earth actually helps me understand things in the photo reference better. I've been working on a painting of a spot near the Grand Canyon. Crazy complicated rock formations right? Google Earth has helped me break them down and understand what I'm seeing. I know that bit everyone will find that useful. But I thought I would share. At the moment I can't afford joining your page even though it's like to. COVID cost me my job. But at one point I will if I can.
You are a God to me. Honestly, when I first starte, I had to have a drink to stop being so self critical. But before I was a photographer, I was a writer. Power in words. My God . . ."I'll see you in hell, after a shot of whiskey . . . INSPIRING!!! Perfect!!!
BlueEyedMatt42 SHOW YOUR WORK TO PEOPLE WHO ARE ARTISTS THAT YOU TRUST WILL GIVE YOU A TRUE CRITIQUE.....some of the nastiest comments about my or others' work fell out of the mouths of smug so-called artists with or without degrees who were in essence jealous or afraid of anyone with talent. Remember that the most important things are, practice and really looking at everything (what you are painting and how you are doing it.). Take the best from every artist and learn to make yourself the best you can be.....as long as you get better, there is no more you can ask of yourself? Develop friends that support each other and really want to help each other, a positive community is the fastest and most satisfying way to grow. More eyes find out fastest what will improve your work and you can help others as well. Landscapes and still life's are actually portraits of genre, portraits are just more critical in tone and perspective.....in other words a tree just needs to be believable as a tree, but a portrait must be a true representation of a specific person, whether it is photorealistic or not.
This is so true... I painted a picture that I realy disliked.. my wife talked me into posting it. It became a very well received painting and now one of my favorites because it taught me a lesson. Check me out on Instagram im thedavepainter.
David Getchell. I was blessed with a husband who had a very gentle but critical eye, my biggest booster, he was a wonderful musician and I was his booster. He made his living as a toolmaker/model maker so he has crosshairs in his eyes.....he helped me find out what slight corrections were needed in portraits. Since he has gone I have found that using calipers to measure saves loads of time to getting everything perfectly in perspective....I realize that it seems like it is a bother to begin with, but it will train your eye so that it will eventually be needed less and hopefully there will be a time it is not needed....it took me a few years but now I only really need to use it here and there to get a real likeness.
I really love your videos, direct, to the point, honest , authentic. I'm so fortunate I found you on You Tube. I follow other artists and yeah their art is cool but not necessarily my favorites. Or artists whose art are my favorite but then the painter is too technical or 'look how cool/sly, I can paint this.." type of attitude. I hope your channel keeps growing.
I only started painting 2yrs ago after I left work. I tried acrylics because I was painting inside and didn't want to stink out the house. But I live in the tropics and it's so hot here that the paint just about dries on the brush before you get it to the canvas. Blending was a nightmare. So I went to watercolours, which I enjoy but I really wanted something different. So ..I got some paint and some gamsol and I'm ready to go. It's a lot harder then you make it look. I'm shit at it but I love your videos because they are so down to earth. I can only get better from here. I really appreciate your style and common sense and I'm greatful I found you online. Thank you .
Boy, Chris, you hit the nail on the head.....I had to go give myself a hard talking to....from get busy and paint...to honor your work.....guilty guilty guilty ....thanks Chris I needed that boost.
I have been painting for several years, and consider myself to be self-taught. The information you share with us is terrific! I used to tell that to all my students. I love listening to anything to do with art and stumbled upon your videos! Your videos are the best! The pace you set is energetic and contagious! Great work!
:)))) this is my struggle ,even if the painting comes real nice and harmonious ,i have no clue how i got there . now im scared to paint ..the more i learn the more im scared .not knowing what im doing ...sucks
Hi Helen, I know what you are talking about, and I think all artists know/knew that feeling. You are probably on the right path, somewhere in the middle of the road, lol. Close enough to make your work likable, but not close enough to understand what you are doing and capable of intentionally repeat the process as wanted. Hold your courage and keep going; you get there once (maybe you are close to the breakthrough point already). Most painters listen to their intuition, and while getting to the above-mentioned point, they do the "right thing" even though they cannot explain why. It could be uncomfortable (not knowing why), but it doesn't disqualify either you as an artist or your work. Keep painting:-)!
Hey Chris, great teaching videos, especially the positive reinforcement advise. Damn good comedic timing as well. Thanks for taking the time to help all of us.
I am watching these videos to get my painting mojo back... stopped creating several years ago because of the long term illness and death of my father:(
@@kimbunch718 Really,I haven't had much trouble with paint ever going through canvas before. I just want to do things right, and it's incredibly hard to figure all this out! Thanks for the comment!👍
Great video as always. I just saw the Monet exhibit in Chicago and was so electrified by it. I think I’m going to do a master study of one of his haystacks works, even though I’m just using my Windsor and Newton oils and I’m a beginner. I think there’s so much to learn from his use of color and light. This is what makes me excited to paint and improve!
Observing other paintings by other artists is the best way to learn by a self taught artist?! They all have a strong strong point, no matter how rediculess they seem love them all!
I have mixed thoughts on making oil out to be a special medium that few can do. For one, the more people painting the more available paints will be locally.
Jon Mahashintina I always thought oils were the ultimate....until I had to change to pastels because of two lively youngsters who took up most of my time and knocked over several paintings in the works by accident.....I tried and shunned acrylics for decades because they dried too fast and had a plastic feel on my brush....in the last few years, quite by accident, I found Golden paints and using them with retarder there is very little difference than oils.....I find it hard sometimes to remember if I have done a pic with acrylic or oil.....
@@johannebeerbaum1546 there are some local brands here that knocked away my perceptions of what acrylics looked like, having growing up with thin school paint and watery craft paint. i think the lack of an added glossifier helps them not to feel cheap and plastic too. can always varnish at the end if gloss is wanted.
@@johannebeerbaum1546 I'm so glad to see your post! I've had a long dry spell, and like you I cannot tell whether my older paintings are oil, acrylic or - whether I used acrylic to 'sketch' it in, and painted the bulk in oil - which I often do to speed up the process. From now on I'll make notes for posterity. ;-)
@@johannebeerbaum1546 , I'm starting with Golden Open, we'll see how it goes! I have the same issues as you but my "kids" are two lively kittens and one way too hyper dog. (my human kids are all over 19...) 😊🎨
Thank you Chris - very encouraging words, I am only a couple of years into painting (self taught) and have highs when I think I have it all sorted, then comes a huge dip and nothing works out but I am very determined to master the art of painting!! This video has been very positive - thank you!! Jan
hello. I am a student who started oil painting for about 3 months. I was reading an article about blocking and was curious, so I would like to ask a question. What oil should I use when blocking? I searched through numerous videos and articles, but couldn't find it. The two oils I have on hand are flaxseed oil and gamsol. (Please understand that I am not good at English, so I am using Google Translator)
Such great! hope and information. Share my work Find another Artist. Copy work ect ect. I’ve bought a lot of materials I’m find it addictive. I’m sitting down again. Today I love oils. Best to you. Puppy dogsClouds and a barn for Encouraging& honor for myself. Thankful for this video 💐💃 🖼️
Self taught? How does one teach themselves what they know? More like study Draw Mix Paint like what you have done and then come here and say, “teach yourself?” More like copied another artist is self taught?
Ok dumb question....I still don't understand the difference between paint thinner and medium and every time I hear about it I'm still confused. I just use linseed oil to thin my oil paint ...I use water based oil paint. Medium that word could mean so many things....so what do you mean? Perhaps if you give brand names I could figure it out. Thank you Chris. Love your talks they keep me going!
Medium is just what you use to change the consistency of the paint like linseed oil and liquin original. Thinner aka mineral spirits and turpentine is used to thin your paint for washes and to clean your brushes as you paint.
About the copyrighted images... If I use one as a reference am I not allowed to sell the painting? Because I'm not selling the original image. For instance if I go out and paint a picture of somebodys car and then sell the picture; I'm not selling that car but a picture of that car. So... anyone?
I have been practicing everyday. I’m doing a challenge. 6x8 inch painting in one hour not worrying about completing it for 100 days. I’m on day 25 or 26 I think. I’m working on value and big shapes. Over time the details will be there. This was from a book I read. Chris, you probably know who I’m referring to. Excellent. My studies aren’t good but I’m improving especially at mixing colors and values and big shapes. These are all excellent tips. The Facebook page helps. It’s important to share your work. I also paint a subject upside down as well. 🙂
kim Lanoue painting every day, with a critical eye is the BEST thing you can do for yourself and your art. Developing a nurturing community is the next.
Johanne Beerbaum yes Johanne! It’s helping me a lot. After months of painting in oils I feel my style has finally emerged. I’m on Chris’s Facebook Page. It’s a wonderful community to get critiques and helpful information. Thank you.
kim bunch I’m also involved in our city’s Artists Guild, I’m a member. We meet every week and paint, PleinAir together during the summer. Now that it’s fall and winter I’m involved with “brushstrokes “. A group of women and men. We meet and paint together at a local church. The challenge though is really helping me. I’m almost at the halfway point. I may keep going until I get it right. I’m going to Texas in October to take a 4 day workshop with artist Cheri Christensen. Check her out. WOW. IM EXCITED.
I love your content! 👌 A question (sorry if I missed it in another video, still have some to catch up) : Can you recommend books for beginners? Thank you for sharing!! ☺
But i am in conflict. I like painting impressionist paintings, but people are only interested in the cubistic. Paintings i do, but i have gone off doing them but i am painting with view to selling prints what shall I do
Hey Chris, I watch all your Videos and I am deeply impressed that you said you are self-taught. Wow. I have seen so many videos from different instructors and I learned a lot. But what makes me really frustrated is that I never know which brush I should use. Above all I struggle with bristle brush’s and can’t get enough paint on my brush. I know that sounds silly but do you have any advice how to change that? Besides the advice, just take more paint 😂😂. I am always scratching on my canvas. Best Britta
Your video is really helping me to not give up on oil paints. I enjoy acrylic very much because it's simpler to work with. But oil painting is taking me outside of my comfort zone.... Your videos are really helping me to build more confidence. My oil painting are muddy but now I want to achieve the practice and discover the success. Thanks Chris
When I started painting years ago I used acrylics. I wasn't too happy with them because they dry so quickly BUT, I was afraid to try oils. I put it off for quite a while and then took the leap. I love painting with oils. I also paint with watercolors and airbrush paints, paint pens, etc. but I really love the oils. So glad I lost my fear of them!! I use my guest room as my paint room. It has two big windows and a paddle fan with lights. I turn the lights on but I also have the blinds up to get the north light and the east light. I have never painted a still life. I made a decision to paint portraits of some of the old masters. I did a portrait of Da Vinci as I think he might have looked, I did Rembrandt, Claude Monet and several of Vincent Van Gogh. He is my favorite. I paint him like I think he might have looked and I know he resembled his brother Theo somewhat. Vincent took a lot of 'liberties' with his self portraits and if you look at all of them you will see that none of them look like the same man. I take a little bit of Theo, a bit of Vincent's mother, a bit of his own self portraits and also from what people who knew him said about the way he looked. I also use some of the portrait John Russell did of Vincent. Vincent was described by one of his painter friends as being a "weedy little man". Others described him as being scary and some of the women refused to sit for him because he had 'scary' eyes. Vincent was a ginger man, only 5'7 and looked more like a homeless man than anything. I don't paint him looking ragged though. He wasn't a handsome man like his brother Theo and according to Rene Secretan, Vincent didn't look anything like Kirk Douglas who portrayed him in the movie, Lust For Life. Sorry for the rant. Lol.
Such a motivating video! It really takes time to build confidence with your own work. For me, I'm just making art for myself for like 2-3 years and not sharing it publicly but now I'm inspired by artists like you to really show my works to the public. I want to thank you for that Chris 😁
I've never listened more accurate problems and dealing with them, I find myself in every! Thank you so much for this video, it helps me realize I'm not lonely in artistic struggles
Question: I started drawing since I was a kid but I got into oil painting almost a year ago, but I've always used a photo as a reference, so I've never even tried painted from real life and I feel like a fake artist, Is it necessary for an artist to paint from real life? And Should I start practicing now or is it too late?
Chris, what's your thoughts on painting with oils in a sketchbook or mixed media book as a way to paint a lot of studies without feeling like you are wasting expensive stretched canvas? Supposedly you can gesso the pages and paint on them, but I have yet to give it a try.
Hey Chris, thanks for these advices, they are to the point. Can you make a video on how to paint flowers in a bouquet, different shapes? I kinda stuggle with painting flowers, and they do not "talk" to each other in the painting, rather look very separated from each other. Thanks!
Oh thats a great perspective. Its a positive activity to clean and prepare for next session……! Copy paintings. I did this once. It seems so much more easy. Focus on one thing in the painting you like most…good idea. Revisit tutorials. Get feedback from experienced painters…..oh this is scary!! Sharing work….for getting likeminded people involved …not so much for critique…..oh this is scary!! Paint more than just “portraits” to avoid getting too comfortable….and stay fresh not bored. Honor the Effort. Most paintings arent going to work out well. Did you share that painting you worked so hard on?
I love van Gough and monets water lilies just finished iris’s and a few lily ponds. Uncanny the technique dots/slashes is what I did in the beginning before learning how to blend backgrounds. Since I’ve fallen in love w/ my water lilies study - learning how to paint reflections (more slowly)… I’m trying not to blend so much and I can’t 😂
OK help!! I'm super new to oil painting... I want to make a living from it but I'm SUPER DUMB to the Internet, how do I get my work out there? I don't even really know how to use Instagram 🤦♀️ any tips for a total tech dummy to sell my paintings?
I am going to oil paint after doing most water color. Having difficulty. Can you do oil by starting out light with thinned paint and buliding up the color. Will purchasing water solvent oils help me.
Thank you for this channel, I am a self taught musician/welder/blacksmith/woodworker who believes he can do anything he sees on youtube but oils were A NIGHTMARE! your channel seriously helps!! thank you!
I'm just starting to paint. Been at it for a few months now. I've been watching bob ross, religiously. My wife, the artist, despises me for this. Do you think his method isn't helpful? I find it very easy for me. But to progress, she says I need more.. thoughts?
Hi Chris, I really needed to hear the words of wisdom, "Honour the effort". Those three little words feel like the key to getting through those times that feel like failure. At hockey, if we have a terrible game, play badly and lose, I always say, 'Well we fought to the end and we're fitter than we were this morning'. Somehow, I hadn't thought to apply the same thinking to painting. Honouring the effort and acknowledging that improvement that will come if you stick at it - that's important stuff, and I needed to hear that about painting and from someone I respected. So thank you. Ali
love your vids so much, they're so inspirational for me. Your such an amazing instructor, and even with the Patreon, the amount of excellent, well put/thought out free content is wonderful to have, and to go back on!!!! This is the best, self-taught advice tips/techniques, I've heard from a professional in a long, long time! I use your vids for the multiple different mediums and interests I've been interested and practicing. I've done some traditional sketching for a while, and stopped with that. I decided in 2020, to pick up digital painting much more seriously, I had begun before, but the stress of finishing HS was blowing it out of the way. However due to current art block with it, I brought some a couple of brush sets, acrylics and a gouache set not to long ago.I also was researching and they were saying the same thing you said in this vid, about the right art supplies aren't only efficient in lasting a while, but can make your painting much better. Though, there were a couple, even when that said that they said also, if your a beginner it will be just fine even if you get a "laid back, cheap, not a lot of paints, or $$$ brushes." Only now after watching a few beginners tip videos and reading through blog posts, only are I starting to get the hang of the set up, clean down process, what to do/not to do when your oding those things, how to approach different blending techniques, etc...Now I'm getting the chance and are very EXCITED(!!!) to actually go through some of the tutorials I watched, while it's being played!! Another thing I wanted to bring up: when you said paraphrasing, "watch tutorials first, and fully figure out the process, of at least until you have a grasp..." would've been such a great piece of informational advice for me when first starting to digital paint. Watching people paint so effortlessly, even though I knew this would take some time, though I learn fast, I never thought it would take myself so long to learn on these softwares. I trullyyy didn't realize just how much time, months, even years it took me to spend just learning the technical parts of the software, but then practicing what you've learned, not only this, but thinking what parts of the software you could use to implement and make your art pieces better and easier to navigate.....That frustrated the LIVING HELLLLL out of me, you have no idea!!! I had to take so many breaks, off/on from mod-severe frustration and even stress explosions, because of this direct, underlying problem, and the fact I was I felt so much that I was letting myself down, and not being where I wanted to be by that point of my learning process. Oh how harsh I was, and very naive!! I had this issue for so many years. It is now year 5 (possibly?) of so much intent work, with this time, trying to be less harsh on myself, and trying to remind that I can always now move onto a different medium(s) that I have now. I didn't even know and took a while to decide what supplies and equipment to have for digital painting. I didn't have a job(still dont!) so my parents had to pay for this. It was so difficult to explain the processing through my head, when I decided to take a 2/2 and a half year hiatus on the medium and not doing anything for a long time. This while also being very irritable constantly over it, almost every other day/month. This also comes from the feeling of possibly of disappointing them. Even if I knew they weren't disappointed!! Having a personality disorder, among other mental health issues, might I add....didn't help at all!!! This is one thing, I wish so much on that I had told to my younger art journey self. Other than, even if I would've hated it, the time and patience it takes to learn the softwares I wanted to use, as well as how to use them in the paintings I want to eventually take on. I'm so happy, and ecstatic, that I'm actually starting to get the grasp on the concept, and are able to come up with ideas, even if it's just writing them down in words, or very rough sketches with small notes. Which is great, because it certainly took a long time to get there!!! A friendly reminder for others, especially beginners too!! ^^^
thank you so much I just started painting like few months ago and your videos have helped me so much , but I have a question , do you have a daily practice or a daily painting routine ? If you do please show it to us and thanks .
It is said that one should paint from life. I have never had that opportunity. I am a portrait artist and I work from photographs. How can I learn to pain from life? Thank you for your videos!!!
I have the hardest time with mediums! Even when i use different mediums the canvas soaks it up leaving my oils un-workable. No videos on yt show me the things i really need to know
Agreed with all you said - experienced everything on my own, as a self-taught wannabe artist. I started with watercolours about 8 years ago and now I got into oils. For about a year, I ticked every single one of the 'boxes' you mentioned (good and bad). With all the free help I got from your and other artists videos (many thanks for that) there is still one thing that I can't manage at all - how to paint a thin line in oils (!) I know, seems so stupid, so little, but my lines always end up like tormented worms and I never got this problem with watercolours or acrylics. So, what would you recommend? Using medium to thin out the paint? I did that, didn't work (not for me at least). What would be the best brush to do this? I am talking last layers of paint, those accents you have to put in to make it pop. Anyway, I would really appreciate if you can give me a hint - how to paint details in oil paint. Ah, all is alla prima, yes - coming from watercolours, the idea of leaving a painting to sit for at least a week before adding the next layer is unnatural to me. I was told that means I am a 'direct painter' - I can live with that :) Many thanks for all your work
Would you say that if you get really good at acrylic painting it would translate to oil painting? Especially if atm you can’t attempt oil painting because of lack of space/studio
Hey! just wanted to leave a comment to say thankyou for the tips especially when you were talking about 'honour the effort'. I'm having such a difficult time lately where I feel like I spend so much time on a work annnnnnd it doesn't turn out. It just gets me so down but next time this happens i will think of you saying 'honour the effort' so yeah, thankyou
I kinda disagree with the materials concern point. I feel like it’s valid and I would have learned so much faster if someone had just sat me down and given me a specific materials list
Master the 'copy photo' and the 'paint what u see'. It helps for painting from imagination because those earlier paintings will guide your creative process of not having a reference
I just started painting 4 months ago. I attempted an oil painting of my dog, not easy and struggling to finish it…your videos are very helpful! Thank u!
Chris, I started painting over 20 years ago watching Bob Ross. I will forever cherish him, but I haved moved on to other techniques over the years. The internet is a Godsend to a self taught artist. You have contributed that gift to self taught artists everywhere. Your videos are to the point and your coaching is fantastic. Thank you!
So true about thinking "I've got this painting thing figured out", then the next one is a total bust. Ha ha Humility at its best. 😁
Sounds like my golf game.
@@thomasbroderick6388 😀
You are so encouraging and we all need that.....and you are fun to listen to...especially at the end of your videos saying "you still here"?
Amen to that
Great video. You'll see my notes to you. I'm 64 yrs old... a semi-retired photographer, currently living in San Antonio, TX. I took art/painting in high school and studied photography in art school. I didn't get my degree, but have a good foundation. I'm thinking of using my photography over the last 30+ yrs for my painting. We'll see how it goes.
About that last part, famous scientist Niels Bohr said «An expert is someone who managed to make every possible mistake in a given field.»
Great quote!
Can’t be better than the truth!
Hahahahaha and who said nuclear physics isn't fun. The one field you want to make the lease mistakes hahahahaha
Hey, Chris, quality content as always! 😁😁😁
I wanted to share a tool I've found useful. If I'm painting a landscape of an actual existing place, using Google Earth actually helps me understand things in the photo reference better.
I've been working on a painting of a spot near the Grand Canyon. Crazy complicated rock formations right? Google Earth has helped me break them down and understand what I'm seeing. I know that bit everyone will find that useful. But I thought I would share. At the moment I can't afford joining your page even though it's like to. COVID cost me my job.
But at one point I will if I can.
I have to use free info too...but there is a lot of great free help for artists. I think using google earth is a great idea...I have done that too
@@jackiegarroutte8970 well I’m looking to join a free community where i can join a bunch of other artists, do you know any that i could join?
You’re a born teacher ✌🏼TY ( empathetic and not condescending )
Too good not to use: I start my paintings by staring at my palette, taking a belt of whiskey and uttering "I'll see you in hell!"
LOL whatever you need to do
Now THIS resonates with me, and no one has suggested it before, thank you Chris Griffith! See you at rehab! ;D j/k
You are a God to me. Honestly, when I first starte, I had to have a drink to stop being so self critical. But before I was a photographer, I was a writer. Power in words. My God . . ."I'll see you in hell, after a shot of whiskey . . . INSPIRING!!! Perfect!!!
@@screeningmimi save me a seat . . .
@@KatherineLWince o... k? (Shhh...I don't even own Whiskey, lol)
"Are you crying?! ARE YOU CRYING? There’s no crying in oil paints. No crying." That’s the line right?
BlueEyedMatt42 SHOW YOUR WORK TO PEOPLE WHO ARE ARTISTS THAT YOU TRUST WILL GIVE YOU A TRUE CRITIQUE.....some of the nastiest comments about my or others' work fell out of the mouths of smug so-called artists with or without degrees who were in essence jealous or afraid of anyone with talent. Remember that the most important things are, practice and really looking at everything (what you are painting and how you are doing it.). Take the best from every artist and learn to make yourself the best you can be.....as long as you get better, there is no more you can ask of yourself? Develop friends that support each other and really want to help each other, a positive community is the fastest and most satisfying way to grow. More eyes find out fastest what will improve your work and you can help others as well. Landscapes and still life's are actually portraits of genre, portraits are just more critical in tone and perspective.....in other words a tree just needs to be believable as a tree, but a portrait must be a true representation of a specific person, whether it is photorealistic or not.
😂😂😂
This is so true... I painted a picture that I realy disliked.. my wife talked me into posting it. It became a very well received painting and now one of my favorites because it taught me a lesson.
Check me out on Instagram im thedavepainter.
David Getchell. I was blessed with a husband who had a very gentle but critical eye, my biggest booster, he was a wonderful musician and I was his booster. He made his living as a toolmaker/model maker so he has crosshairs in his eyes.....he helped me find out what slight corrections were needed in portraits. Since he has gone I have found that using calipers to measure saves loads of time to getting everything perfectly in perspective....I realize that it seems like it is a bother to begin with, but it will train your eye so that it will eventually be needed less and hopefully there will be a time it is not needed....it took me a few years but now I only really need to use it here and there to get a real likeness.
I really love your videos, direct, to the point, honest , authentic. I'm so fortunate I found you on You Tube. I follow other artists and yeah their art is cool but not necessarily my favorites. Or artists whose art are my favorite but then the painter is too technical or 'look how cool/sly, I can paint this.." type of attitude. I hope your channel keeps growing.
I only started painting 2yrs ago after I left work. I tried acrylics because I was painting inside and didn't want to stink out the house. But I live in the tropics and it's so hot here that the paint just about dries on the brush before you get it to the canvas. Blending was a nightmare. So I went to watercolours, which I enjoy but I really wanted something different. So ..I got some paint and some gamsol and I'm ready to go. It's a lot harder then you make it look. I'm shit at it but I love your videos because they are so down to earth. I can only get better from here. I really appreciate your style and common sense and I'm greatful I found you online. Thank you .
This is so great to hear!
This guy is probably gonna be the reason for the next generation of painters
Boy, Chris, you hit the nail on the head.....I had to go give myself a hard talking to....from get busy and paint...to honor your work.....guilty guilty guilty ....thanks Chris I needed that boost.
Glad to help!
I have been painting for several years, and consider myself to be self-taught. The information you share with us is terrific! I used to tell that to all my students. I love listening to anything to do with art and stumbled upon your videos! Your videos are the best! The pace you set is energetic and contagious! Great work!
Thank you so much!
I disagree with you watercolor is much harder than oil or acrylic
:)))) this is my struggle ,even if the painting comes real nice and harmonious ,i have no clue how i got there . now im scared to paint ..the more i learn the more im scared .not knowing what im doing ...sucks
Hi Helen, I know what you are talking about, and I think all artists know/knew that feeling.
You are probably on the right path, somewhere in the middle of the road, lol. Close enough to make your work likable, but not close enough to understand what you are doing and capable of intentionally repeat the process as wanted.
Hold your courage and keep going; you get there once (maybe you are close to the breakthrough point already).
Most painters listen to their intuition, and while getting to the above-mentioned point, they do the "right thing" even though they cannot explain why.
It could be uncomfortable (not knowing why), but it doesn't disqualify either you as an artist or your work.
Keep painting:-)!
This show is growing on me with its intelligence , skill , and creative advice. 👍👍
Hey Chris, great teaching videos, especially the positive reinforcement advise. Damn good comedic timing as well. Thanks for taking the time to help all of us.
I am watching these videos to get my painting mojo back... stopped creating several years ago because of the long term illness and death of my father:(
But... I love Belgium linen...
Is it important to prime the canvas? And why do some people do under paint?
stardustgirl I’ve definitely learned to do extra gesso or acrylics just so paint doesn’t soak in so much worth the time!
@@kimbunch718 Really,I haven't had much trouble with paint ever going through canvas before. I just want to do things right, and it's incredibly hard to figure all this out! Thanks for the comment!👍
Great video as always. I just saw the Monet exhibit in Chicago and was so electrified by it. I think I’m going to do a master study of one of his haystacks works, even though I’m just using my Windsor and Newton oils and I’m a beginner. I think there’s so much to learn from his use of color and light. This is what makes me excited to paint and improve!
That sounds awesome! There is literally endless amounts of knowledge to gain from studying his colors.
Study of haystacks is very good idea. Thanks!
Observing other paintings by other artists is the best way to learn by a self taught artist?! They all have a strong strong point, no matter how rediculess they seem love them all!
I have mixed thoughts on making oil out to be a special medium that few can do. For one, the more people painting the more available paints will be locally.
Jon Mahashintina I always thought oils were the ultimate....until I had to change to pastels because of two lively youngsters who took up most of my time and knocked over several paintings in the works by accident.....I tried and shunned acrylics for decades because they dried too fast and had a plastic feel on my brush....in the last few years, quite by accident, I found Golden paints and using them with retarder there is very little difference than oils.....I find it hard sometimes to remember if I have done a pic with acrylic or oil.....
@@johannebeerbaum1546 there are some local brands here that knocked away my perceptions of what acrylics looked like, having growing up with thin school paint and watery craft paint.
i think the lack of an added glossifier helps them not to feel cheap and plastic too. can always varnish at the end if gloss is wanted.
@@johannebeerbaum1546 I'm so glad to see your post! I've had a long dry spell, and like you I cannot tell whether my older paintings are oil, acrylic or - whether I used acrylic to 'sketch' it in, and painted the bulk in oil - which I often do to speed up the process. From now on I'll make notes for posterity. ;-)
@@johannebeerbaum1546 , I'm starting with Golden Open, we'll see how it goes! I have the same issues as you but my "kids" are two lively kittens and one way too hyper dog. (my human kids are all over 19...) 😊🎨
I loved this video, thanks for sharing your experience, I found it very useful! Thank you!
Thank you Chris - very encouraging words,
I am only a couple of years into painting (self taught) and have highs when I think I have it all sorted, then comes a huge dip and nothing works out but I am very determined to master the art of painting!!
This video has been very positive - thank you!!
Jan
hello. I am a student who started oil painting for about 3 months. I was reading an article about blocking and was curious, so I would like to ask a question. What oil should I use when blocking? I searched through numerous videos and articles, but couldn't find it. The two oils I have on hand are flaxseed oil and gamsol. (Please understand that I am not good at English, so I am using Google Translator)
Such great! hope and information. Share my work Find another Artist. Copy work ect ect. I’ve bought a lot of materials I’m find it addictive. I’m sitting down again. Today I love oils. Best to you. Puppy dogsClouds and a barn for
Encouraging& honor for myself. Thankful for this video 💐💃 🖼️
Self taught?
How does one teach themselves what they know?
More like study Draw Mix Paint like what you have done and then come here and say, “teach yourself?”
More like copied another artist is self taught?
Ok dumb question....I still don't understand the difference between paint thinner and medium and every time I hear about it I'm still confused. I just use linseed oil to thin my oil paint ...I use water based oil paint. Medium that word could mean so many things....so what do you mean? Perhaps if you give brand names I could figure it out. Thank you Chris. Love your talks they keep me going!
Medium is just what you use to change the consistency of the paint like linseed oil and liquin original. Thinner aka mineral spirits and turpentine is used to thin your paint for washes and to clean your brushes as you paint.
Watercolor can be difficult. If you make a mistake, and you can't lift the paint, your painting is kindling.
About the copyrighted images... If I use one as a reference am I not
allowed to sell the painting? Because I'm not selling the original
image. For instance if I go out and paint a picture of somebodys car and
then sell the picture; I'm not selling that car but a
picture of that car. So... anyone?
Hi Chris - do you ever paint on gesso board? What are the advantages/drawbacks?
I have been practicing everyday. I’m doing a challenge. 6x8 inch painting in one hour not worrying about completing it for 100 days. I’m on day 25 or 26 I think. I’m working on value and big shapes. Over time the details will be there. This was from a book I read. Chris, you probably know who I’m referring to. Excellent. My studies aren’t good but I’m improving especially at mixing colors and values and big shapes. These are all excellent tips. The Facebook page helps. It’s important to share your work. I also paint a subject upside down as well. 🙂
kim Lanoue painting every day, with a critical eye is the BEST thing you can do for yourself and your art. Developing a nurturing community is the next.
Johanne Beerbaum yes Johanne! It’s helping me a lot. After months of painting in oils I feel my style has finally emerged. I’m on Chris’s Facebook Page. It’s a wonderful community to get critiques and helpful information. Thank you.
kim Lanoue I should try ‘this!
kim bunch I’m also involved in our city’s Artists Guild, I’m a member. We meet every week and paint, PleinAir together during the summer. Now that it’s fall and winter I’m involved with “brushstrokes “. A group of women and men. We meet and paint together at a local church. The challenge though is really helping me. I’m almost at the halfway point. I may keep going until I get it right. I’m going to Texas in October to take a 4 day workshop with artist Cheri Christensen. Check her out. WOW. IM EXCITED.
kim Lanoue that’s wonderful!! I’ve been painting long time but still trying other mediums and classes too they are fun on line!!
love your longer hair and your videos. I will be joining your online patreon.
Lol that intro, I watercolor, acrylic and oil paint and of all the mediums watercolor scares me most , love your vids though!
I love your content! 👌 A question (sorry if I missed it in another video, still have some to catch up) : Can you recommend books for beginners? Thank you for sharing!! ☺
What exactly is a self taught artist? One who never took a class? Thanks for the video and your thoughts. Great advice. Blessings and be safe.
But i am in conflict. I like painting impressionist paintings, but people are only interested in the cubistic. Paintings i do, but i have gone off doing them but i am painting with view to selling prints what shall I do
The most encouraging and helpful tips for self-taught beginners. Thank you so much!
It’s the same thinking that buying new golf clubs will make you play better.
Thank you Chris. I appreciate you very much
Hey Chris, I watch all your Videos and I am deeply impressed that you said you are self-taught. Wow. I have seen so many videos from different instructors and I learned a lot. But what makes me really frustrated is that I never know which brush I should use. Above all I struggle with bristle brush’s and can’t get enough paint on my brush. I know that sounds silly but do you have any advice how to change that? Besides the advice, just take more paint 😂😂. I am always scratching on my canvas. Best Britta
Your video is really helping me to not give up on oil paints. I enjoy acrylic very much because it's simpler to work with. But oil painting is taking me outside of my comfort zone.... Your videos are really helping me to build more confidence. My oil painting are muddy but now I want to achieve the practice and discover the success. Thanks Chris
You made me try harder. You kicked my lazy ass and encouraged my good self. Thank you paint couch.
When I started painting years ago I used acrylics. I wasn't too happy with them because they dry so quickly BUT, I was afraid to try oils. I put it off for quite a while and then took the leap. I love painting with oils. I also paint with watercolors and airbrush paints, paint pens, etc. but I really love the oils. So glad I lost my fear of them!!
I use my guest room as my paint room. It has two big windows and a paddle fan with lights. I turn the lights on but I also have the blinds up to get the north light and the east light.
I have never painted a still life. I made a decision to paint portraits of some of the old masters. I did a portrait of Da Vinci as I think he might have looked, I did Rembrandt, Claude Monet and several of Vincent Van Gogh. He is my favorite. I paint him like I think he might have looked and I know he resembled his brother Theo somewhat. Vincent took a lot of 'liberties' with his self portraits and if you look at all of them you will see that none of them look like the same man. I take a little bit of Theo, a bit of Vincent's mother, a bit of his own self portraits and also from what people who knew him said about the way he looked. I also use some of the portrait John Russell did of Vincent.
Vincent was described by one of his painter friends as being a "weedy little man". Others described him as being scary and some of the women refused to sit for him because he had 'scary' eyes. Vincent was a ginger man, only 5'7 and looked more like a homeless man than anything. I don't paint him looking ragged though. He wasn't a handsome man like his brother Theo and according to Rene Secretan, Vincent didn't look anything like Kirk Douglas who portrayed him in the movie, Lust For Life.
Sorry for the rant. Lol.
Thank you. Your paintings are awesome. Great learning! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Such a motivating video! It really takes time to build confidence with your own work. For me, I'm just making art for myself for like 2-3 years and not sharing it publicly but now I'm inspired by artists like you to really show my works to the public. I want to thank you for that Chris 😁
Do you ever just cover/ paint over a painting that you did, but hate how it came out?
Do you gesso pre-primed canvases, and if so, how much.
How do you know when your painting is complete??
I shared my painting on Facebook.
how can I have a video chat with you to criticize my paintings?
I’m loving the painting on your easel and the outstanding video.
Thanks!
Success is having a go.
I've never listened more accurate problems and dealing with them, I find myself in every! Thank you so much for this video, it helps me realize I'm not lonely in artistic struggles
How did you get inside my head?
Great advice ..thank you
Ohh paint coach...football coach...I get it
Do you gesso pre-primed canvases?
Question: I started drawing since I was a kid but I got into oil painting almost a year ago, but I've always used a photo as a reference, so I've never even tried painted from real life and I feel like a fake artist, Is it necessary for an artist to paint from real life? And Should I start practicing now or is it too late?
You are NOT a “fake” artist for using reference. You are still an artist!
Is oil paints bad for your lungs?
Can I paint photos that I see in Instagram
Why do you dis acrylic paints?
Chris, what's your thoughts on painting with oils in a sketchbook or mixed media book as a way to paint a lot of studies without feeling like you are wasting expensive stretched canvas? Supposedly you can gesso the pages and paint on them, but I have yet to give it a try.
I wonder the same
Use a mixed media sketchbook with at least 80 or more pound, get gesso and give it 2-3 coats of gesso and let it dry, and youre good to go.
Thank you for this👏🏼
This guy is my dear friend in my mind 😂
Hey Chris, thanks for these advices, they are to the point. Can you make a video on how to paint flowers in a bouquet, different shapes? I kinda stuggle with painting flowers, and they do not "talk" to each other in the painting, rather look very separated from each other. Thanks!
Polina Shinkina you got it
🎨♥️
Oh thats a great perspective. Its a positive activity to clean and prepare for next session……! Copy paintings. I did this once. It seems so much more easy. Focus on one thing in the painting you like most…good idea. Revisit tutorials. Get feedback from experienced painters…..oh this is scary!! Sharing work….for getting likeminded people involved …not so much for critique…..oh this is scary!! Paint more than just “portraits” to avoid getting too comfortable….and stay fresh not bored. Honor the Effort. Most paintings arent going to work out well. Did you share that painting you worked so hard on?
Great 👍 thank you!🤩
I love van Gough and monets water lilies just finished iris’s and a few lily ponds. Uncanny the technique dots/slashes is what I did in the beginning before learning how to blend backgrounds. Since I’ve fallen in love w/ my water lilies study - learning how to paint reflections (more slowly)…
I’m trying not to blend so much and I can’t 😂
OK help!!
I'm super new to oil painting... I want to make a living from it but I'm SUPER DUMB to the Internet, how do I get my work out there? I don't even really know how to use Instagram 🤦♀️ any tips for a total tech dummy to sell my paintings?
Very wise for a young bloke. Thanks for your input.
Dave M ( AUSTRALIA) 😎🇦🇺
I admire good painters, but I really admire good painters who encourage bad painters. Thanks Chris.
Que lindo ese autoretrato
Are you from Pittsburgh or just a huge Steelers fan?? Love your videos man, would be cool to know you're local =)
I love it when he moves and the microphone blocks part of the tee-shirt: PAIN COACH.
Thank you Chris, I try to watch all your useful videos and learned a lot that helm me to improve my skills in painting. Tank you so much 😊
I am going to oil paint after doing most water color. Having difficulty. Can you do oil by starting out light with thinned paint and buliding up the color. Will purchasing water solvent oils help me.
Thank you for this channel, I am a self taught musician/welder/blacksmith/woodworker who believes he can do anything he sees on youtube but oils were A NIGHTMARE! your channel seriously helps!! thank you!
I'm just starting to paint. Been at it for a few months now. I've been watching bob ross, religiously. My wife, the artist, despises me for this. Do you think his method isn't helpful? I find it very easy for me. But to progress, she says I need more.. thoughts?
Hi Chris, I really needed to hear the words of wisdom, "Honour the effort". Those three little words feel like the key to getting through those times that feel like failure. At hockey, if we have a terrible game, play badly and lose, I always say, 'Well we fought to the end and we're fitter than we were this morning'. Somehow, I hadn't thought to apply the same thinking to painting. Honouring the effort and acknowledging that improvement that will come if you stick at it - that's important stuff, and I needed to hear that about painting and from someone I respected. So thank you. Ali
love your vids so much, they're so inspirational for me. Your such an amazing instructor, and even with the Patreon, the amount of excellent, well put/thought out free content is wonderful to have, and to go back on!!!! This is the best, self-taught advice tips/techniques, I've heard from a professional in a long, long time!
I use your vids for the multiple different mediums and interests I've been interested and practicing. I've done some traditional sketching for a while, and stopped with that. I decided in 2020, to pick up digital painting much more seriously, I had begun before, but the stress of finishing HS was blowing it out of the way. However due to current art block with it, I brought some a couple of brush sets, acrylics and a gouache set not to long ago.I also was researching and they were saying the same thing you said in this vid, about the right art supplies aren't only efficient in lasting a while, but can make your painting much better. Though, there were a couple, even when that said that they said also, if your a beginner it will be just fine even if you get a "laid back, cheap, not a lot of paints, or $$$ brushes."
Only now after watching a few beginners tip videos and reading through blog posts, only are I starting to get the hang of the set up, clean down process, what to do/not to do when your oding those things, how to approach different blending techniques, etc...Now I'm getting the chance and are very EXCITED(!!!) to actually go through some of the tutorials I watched, while it's being played!!
Another thing I wanted to bring up: when you said paraphrasing, "watch tutorials first, and fully figure out the process, of at least until you have a grasp..." would've been such a great piece of informational advice for me when first starting to digital paint. Watching people paint so effortlessly, even though I knew this would take some time, though I learn fast, I never thought it would take myself so long to learn on these softwares.
I trullyyy didn't realize just how much time, months, even years it took me to spend just learning the technical parts of the software, but then practicing what you've learned, not only this, but thinking what parts of the software you could use to implement and make your art pieces better and easier to navigate.....That frustrated the LIVING HELLLLL out of me, you have no idea!!!
I had to take so many breaks, off/on from mod-severe frustration and even stress explosions, because of this direct, underlying problem, and the fact I was I felt so much that I was letting myself down, and not being where I wanted to be by that point of my learning process. Oh how harsh I was, and very naive!! I had this issue for so many years. It is now year 5 (possibly?) of so much intent work, with this time, trying to be less harsh on myself, and trying to remind that I can always now move onto a different medium(s) that I have now.
I didn't even know and took a while to decide what supplies and equipment to have for digital painting. I didn't have a job(still dont!) so my parents had to pay for this. It was so difficult to explain the processing through my head, when I decided to take a 2/2 and a half year hiatus on the medium and not doing anything for a long time. This while also being very irritable constantly over it, almost every other day/month. This also comes from the feeling of possibly of disappointing them. Even if I knew they weren't disappointed!! Having a personality disorder, among other mental health issues, might I add....didn't help at all!!!
This is one thing, I wish so much on that I had told to my younger art journey self. Other than, even if I would've hated it, the time and patience it takes to learn the softwares I wanted to use, as well as how to use them in the paintings I want to eventually take on. I'm so happy, and ecstatic, that I'm actually starting to get the grasp on the concept, and are able to come up with ideas, even if it's just writing them down in words, or very rough sketches with small notes. Which is great, because it certainly took a long time to get there!!! A friendly reminder for others, especially beginners too!! ^^^
I love u sorry not sorry
You can get a cheap set of oil paints for 19 bucks, less with a coupon. The Dollar store has small canvases. Go, painter, go!
Great video! I’m having trouble knowing the exact amount of liquid clear to put on the canvas (as I think it’s harder to see than liquid white)
thank you so much I just started painting like few months ago and your videos have helped me so much , but I have a question , do you have a daily practice or a daily painting routine ? If you do please show it to us and thanks .
wow! Thank you so much for those encouraging last words. Thats what i needed to hear right now! Thank you!💙
So right about thinking ‘ I got this’ and the next painting sucks! Thx ! Chris love your videos!
It is said that one should paint from life. I have never had that opportunity. I am a portrait artist and I work from photographs. How can I learn to pain from life? Thank you for your videos!!!
Just wanted to say you’re awesome thanks for these videos I’m learning so much and you look like cole sprouse 😁😁😁😁
I have the hardest time with mediums! Even when i use different mediums the canvas soaks it up leaving my oils un-workable. No videos on yt show me the things i really need to know
Agreed with all you said - experienced everything on my own, as a self-taught wannabe artist. I started with watercolours about 8 years ago and now I got into oils. For about a year, I ticked every single one of the 'boxes' you mentioned (good and bad). With all the free help I got from your and other artists videos (many thanks for that) there is still one thing that I can't manage at all - how to paint a thin line in oils (!) I know, seems so stupid, so little, but my lines always end up like tormented worms and I never got this problem with watercolours or acrylics. So, what would you recommend? Using medium to thin out the paint? I did that, didn't work (not for me at least). What would be the best brush to do this? I am talking last layers of paint, those accents you have to put in to make it pop. Anyway, I would really appreciate if you can give me a hint - how to paint details in oil paint. Ah, all is alla prima, yes - coming from watercolours, the idea of leaving a painting to sit for at least a week before adding the next layer is unnatural to me. I was told that means I am a 'direct painter' - I can live with that :) Many thanks for all your work
So beautiful! Really talented! Was amazing watching it! New friend is here.
Would you say that if you get really good at acrylic painting it would translate to oil painting? Especially if atm you can’t attempt oil painting because of lack of space/studio
Hey! just wanted to leave a comment to say thankyou for the tips especially when you were talking about 'honour the effort'. I'm having such a difficult time lately where I feel like I spend so much time on a work annnnnnd it doesn't turn out. It just gets me so down but next time this happens i will think of you saying 'honour the effort' so yeah, thankyou
I kinda disagree with the materials concern point. I feel like it’s valid and I would have learned so much faster if someone had just sat me down and given me a specific materials list
Master the 'copy photo' and the 'paint what u see'. It helps for painting from imagination because those earlier paintings will guide your creative process of not having a reference
Came here after butchering a Bob Ross painting and the first part was the motivation I needed!
I just started painting 4 months ago. I attempted an oil painting of my dog, not easy and struggling to finish it…your videos are very helpful! Thank u!