Oil Painting 101 - Composition | David Vegt | March 28, April 4, 11, 18, 2026 | 9:30am - 12:30pm

In this series of classes we’ll explore what separates a strong composition from a weak or unresolved one, and why certain arrangements of shapes, values, and edges feel more compelling than others. A major focus will be learning to see when a composition isn’t working—whether it’s an issue of balance, focal point, proportion, or value structure—and developing the ability to troubleshoot those problems early.

Rather than diving straight into a finished piece, we’ll begin with a series of small studies designed to help you experiment freely with different compositional options. These quick explorations will give you a deeper sense of how to guide the viewer’s eye, create visual hierarchy, and establish a painting’s foundation before any detail is added. Once we’ve played, revised, and clarified what each student’s composition needs to succeed, we’ll move toward a more developed oil painting based on the strongest study. By the end, you’ll not only understand how to set up a painting on the right path but also gain confidence in evaluating and refining your own work from the very first brushstroke.

We will keep it solvent free by using walnut oil alkyd.

Come and meet new people and have fun learning a new skill! ALSO please wear clothing or an apron that you don’t mind getting a little bit of paint on it.

This class includes Materials