paintings and smooth surfaces?

Question

I like art and eveytime i look at the ones that have that smooth finish almost human like, i ask myself how do they achive that. Is that a technique? and if it is how do you do it? Thanks

Answer 1

very thin layers (veneers) of oil paint - mixed with linseed oil. its called 'floating layers' -- look up artists like Jan Van Eyck and the Flemish masters - Rembrandt did some of it too.

It is a lot of work - but the layers of oil create an almost glass-like surface - with the pigments suspended in the layers - very cool, almost like an illusion.

Answer 2

Yeah, and sometimes Van Eyck would paint in black/white/grey at first, then build color over the shades. It works pretty well.

Other than that, use oils and plenty of extra oil and spirits. It takes a long time to accomplish, so don't expect any kind of miracles. I don't expect a class would help much except tell you the mechanics of oil paint - past that it's hours and decades of practice.

Answer 3

Years of experience. Start by taking a painting class at a local hobby shop or craft place.

Answer 4

start with a smooth surface than work in thin washes, it takes time but it pays off, lot of blending too.