Hibiscus 🌺 (oil on canvas)

My first oil painting was an interesting experience. I hadn't started taking art classes as yet, and figuring out all the components of the medium was very confusing. Since then, I have learned much about all the steps that go towards a composition, and I may try painting the hibiscus again, ..though it was quite fun to just slap paint down on a clean canvas.😉

There are many, many colors, and brands, of paint to choose from. The paints themselves can be categorized into opaque and translucent. The brands break down the paints into series depending on how rare or difficult to make the pigments the colors are based on are, which also determines how expensive they are.

The brushes give the paintings their unique style and character, so choosing the right brushes is very important. Softer brushes help blend colors well, so good for paintings that are more realistic, where as harder brush bristles may work better for impressionistic or abstract paintings. And of course palette knives are perfect for wherever a thicker coat of paint may be needed to emphasize or highlight. They can even be used for the entire painting instead of brushes.

Canvases are another thing to consider carefully before starting a painting. The grain of the canvas can add a subtle dimension to paintings. They can be stretched and primed from scratch, but premade canvases save time and effort for learning.

An easel is needed to prop the canvas and create a space to paint in. A drop cloth placed below can help keep ground clean in case of spills.

Paint thinners and oils are used for oil paints like water for water paints.

additional materials include palette, palette paper, paint containers, oil and thinner jars, and rags, or paper towels for painting and clean up.

Brush cleaners help keep and preserve brushes for long time use.

phew! 😅😂

I sometimes still wonder at the appeal of the arts. Why do they move us so? As I grow older and more appreciative of life, I find there is an allure to textures, lines, shapes, and colors that I cannot deny. In realizing that art is about expression, I've come to understand art is a reflection of one of life's greatest gifts.

The actual flower I tried painting, though from a different angle I think.

Thanks for reading! :)