Master the wet-on-wet oil painting technique

oil painting of girl, created using the wet-on-wet oil painting technique

Getting the hang of the wet-on-wet oil painting technique is ideal for embracing the nature of oil paints. Also known as ‘alla prima’ , there is something about the medium that is so generous. Its fluid, glossy, rich texture enables you to make thick brushstrokes, which can be spread and layered with so much satisfaction.

Sometimes called ‘direct painting’, alla prima is all about being spontaneous and making rapid decisions, as the goal is to produce a painting in one go (often in one setting), without letting any layers dry. 

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Valérie Pirlot

Originally from Belgium, Valérie has lived in the UK for the past 11 years. She works mainly in oils and enjoys working plein air.

With contributions from
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