Oil Painting-Mixed Ability

This course is available for enrolment.

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Course code: P13E

A course for beginners wishing to explore the world of oil painting and experienced painters wanting to improve their techniques.

when: From 23 Apr 2026 to 21 May 2026
Thu 13:00-15:30 5 weeks
Tutor: Warren Sealey

where

Stoke Lodge

Stoke Lodge Centre, Shirehampton Road
Stoke Bishop
Bristol
BS9 1BN

fees

full fee for this course £105.00, concession fee £64.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

Oil paints have an intimidating reputation; this course will dispel some common myths and show that oil paints are easy to use. For all abilities from complete beginners to advanced painters.

What can students expect?

Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your techniques, this course offers something for everyone. Experienced painters can pursue projects that align with their interests—such as portraits, landscapes, or still life—while beginners will follow step-by-step projects supported by clear demonstrations.

By the end of the course, you will have developed a deeper understanding of oil painting techniques and created several pieces of artwork that reflect your artistic growth.

Late starters allowed?

Yes, but this is a short course so it is best to join by week 2.

Previous experience required?

No, this course is suitable for complete beginners and experienced painters.

What is the progression route?

Learners can re-enrol the following terms.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners supply own materials.

Work set between sessions?

Work is not set between sessions, but practice is encouraged.

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>Odourless paint thinner such as Zest It or Sansodor</li>
<li>Linseed oil, Liquin or another painting medium</li>
<li>A selection of bristle brushes of various sizes, the filbert shape is the most useful</li>
<li>A couple of softer synthetic brushes are useful for blending as well</li>
<li>An A4 or A3 pad of oil painting paper (I recommend the A3 Seawhite oil painting pad, the one with the purple cover)</li>
<li>Two dippers or small jam jars</li>
<li>Oil colours. You can buy sets with a variety of colours in but if buying separately the colours I use and recommend are:
<ul>
<li>Titanium White</li>
<li>Yellow Ochre</li>
<li>Cadmium Yellow Light</li>
<li>Cadmium Red Light</li>
<li>Alizarin Crimson</li>
<li>Burnt Sienna</li>
<li>Burnt Umber</li>
<li>Viridian Green</li>
<li>Cerulean Blue</li>
<li>Ultramarine Blue</li>
<li>Ivory Black</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>A palette, a pad of tear off paper palettes are handy</li>
<li>A pencil and rubber</li>
<li>Kitchen roll or rags</li>
</ul>

I do not advise buying paint sets from places such as Lidl, Aldi, The Works etc. as they will not be of the quality needed to get the results you will want. If you are not sure what brand to buy for brushes and colours, I recommend the Winton range by Windsor & Newton as a good quality range for beginners. Also, the Georgian range by Daler Rowney.

Teaching method/style?

Demonstrations, exercises and opportunities for both group and individual tuition and feedback.

Equipment Required

See list above.

Refunds and cancellations

.Course Cancellations by Us

• If we cancel your course, your fees will be refunded in full.

• We cannot reimburse the cost of any materials you may have purchased.

Cancellations by You

• If you cancel 7 days or more before the course start date: Refund issued minus a 20% administration fee.

• If you cancel less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: No refund will be issued.

Transfers

• Transfers must be requested at least 7 days before the course start date.

• A 10% transfer fee applies.

• Transfers due to our cancellation of your original course are free of charge.

Illness and Absence

• No refunds are available for non-attendance due to sickness or ill health.

How Refunds Are Issued

• Refunds are returned via the original payment method:

• Booked online or by phone ? Refund to the card used.

• Paid in person at Stoke Lodge ? Please bring your payment card to the office.

Online Course Access

• Learners are responsible for ensuring they have suitable internet access and equipment before the course begins.

• No refunds will be issued due to technical issues with a learner’s own internet or computer.