I want to learn the best techniques in oil painting

Artwork by Connie Resch

(connieresch.com)

I am a mom of two little girls and a self taught artist. I am finally now pursuing my true passion in art after many years of believing it was not a viable career option. I have been making art since I was a little girl and a secret dream of mine was to become a successful artist. However, I was too scared to go to art school and move in that direction.

I have been interested in realism from the very beginning while learning on my own, and now I want to learn the best techniques in oil painting. Art has always been an integral part of my life but now I am moving forward into an art career, and I believe that I can’t learn this subject on my own but that I need the advice of experts.

Some of the challenges are learning the techniques of the Old Masters because this information is not easily accessible or it is inaccurate and I want to learn it from a trusted source. I have been reading books on the craft and learning about refining linseed oil, grinding paints, making gesso, building panels etc. But I’d like to know more – what are the best pigments for certain areas? What order to paint in layers is best? How do I ensure my painting doesn’t crack? I don’t want to find out in 5-10 years that I was doing it all wrong!

I think the Old Masters Academy will give me the confidence to take my painting to the next level. I want my paintings to be my legacy and to last longer than me. I also want my art to sustain me financially in the future, and if I have learned the craft well enough I might want to teach others who are learning too!

People should vote for me because I am dedicated to learning and so that I can be an example to all those people who are being pulled between the ‘safe’ career and what actually makes their heart happy.