Roses in Real-Time: A Deep Dive into Oil Painting with Mark Liamsmith

There’s a certain quiet joy in watching a painting unfold, layer by layer, stroke by stroke. It's a meditative rhythm, a dance between intention and accident. While endless feeds of finished pieces can be inspiring, there’s a deeper connection found in witnessing the process—the problem-solving, the adjustments, the subtle shifts in color and value that bring a piece to life.

Recently, Rogue Artists gathered (in spirit, at least!) to watch a replay of Mark Liamsmith’s real-time oil painting of roses. And what a lesson it was! Forget scrolling; this is about rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty.

Liamsmith’s approach is grounded in fundamentals—a welcome respite from the sometimes-overwhelming trends of the digital art world. He doesn't shy away from sharing his entire process, starting with the groundwork: gessoing the canvas with a base layer of black. This seemingly unusual choice, he explains, helps him better judge the value of his colors—a crucial skill for any artist striving for realism. Think of it as a subtle adjustment to your value scale, giving you a clearer sense of light and shadow.

The initial sketch, rendered in a gray colored pencil, is meticulously planned, aided by a grid. This demonstrates the power of composition and perspective – seemingly technical aspects, but vital for creating a balanced and believable image. Notice how he uses the grid not as a rigid constraint, but as a guide, allowing for organic adjustments as the painting progresses.

Then comes the color. Liamsmith’s palette is thoughtfully curated: three reds (a medium, a darker, and a lighter), along with black and white. He emphasizes the importance of understanding color theory, particularly the interplay of warm and cool tones. Mixing red with black, a “cool” color, can muddy the vibrancy—a pitfall he actively avoids. He's using Gamblin oil paints, demonstrating a preference for quality materials. The selection of pigments and their subtle nuances adds depth and richness to the roses.

What’s truly captivating is the way Liamsmith builds form. He encourages viewers to “think about the shape of the rose” as he works, guiding us to see beyond just petals and to understand the underlying structure. This is a fundamental principle of figure drawing and still life painting – it’s not just about copying what you see, but understanding *why* it looks the way it does.

As he paints, he mentions his recent solo show in Montreal, showcasing the power of consistent practice and the benefits of painting live. It's a reminder that the journey of an artist isn't always about instant gratification but about the slow, steady accumulation of skill and experience. For those feeling stuck, Liamsmith’s dedication is a powerful motivator.

If you’re looking for inspiration and a practical demonstration of oil painting techniques, this replay is a treasure trove. It’s a reminder that true art education isn't about following trends but about mastering the fundamentals and developing your own unique voice. Consider this a lesson in alla prima painting, focusing on completing the work in a single session – a bold approach that demands confidence and precision.

And for those with a soft spot for heartwarming projects, this video evokes the spirit of the Benny and Rocky Decorating Competitions – a celebration of creativity, kindness, and the joy of sharing art with others.

Ready to take your own art practice to the next level? Find an Art Angel in your area to guide you, book a workshop to hone your skills, list your studio to connect with fellow artists, or claim a creator profile to share your work. Let's build something beautiful together—offline, in shared spaces, alongside other believers.