Randall C. Sexton: Questions to Ask Yourself

In the fall 2006 issue of Workshop magazine, Randall C. Sexton taught participants how to create oil paintings in response to subjects that they were anxious to paint. We present an excerpt from the article.

Stretching a Canvas for Painting Outdoors

To stretch a medium-sized canvas for painting outdoors, leave an extra amount of canvas overhang on one edge. After the canvas has been firmly attached to the stretcher, punch two holes into the overhanging fabric, about 3/4" in from the edge and approximately 4" apart, and tie a generous length of butcher's twine through each hole and knot the ends.  This handle makes it easy to transport a wet canvas.

Sean Cheetham: Common Weaknesses in Figure Paintings

In the fall 2006 issue of Workshop magazine, California artist Sean Cheetham explained how to achieve accuracy and harmony in his alla prima figure paintings. Here, the artist discusses common weaknesses in figure paintings in an excerpt from the article.

Ask the Experts: Aging Oil Painting Surfaces

Q: How can I age an oil painting surface to make it look old? 

Thomas Van Stein: Moonlight Reminders

In the fall 2006 issue of Workshop magazine, Thomas Van Stein taught students how to capture the elusive light of night. In this excerpt from the article, Van Stein offers a number of helpful tips for artists to keep in mind when painting at night.

Mix Acrylic Paint in Egg Cartons

Use a polystyrene foam egg carton to mix and store acrylics. The compartments make excellent mixing wells, and the inside of the lid is useful for blending small amounts of paint. When finished, place a damp paper towel over the 12 compartments and close the lid to save the paints for another day.