Oil Painting Projects & Tutorials

Explore in-depth oil painting lessons using the classical underpainting and layering method. Each project builds week by week, allowing layers to dry and depth to develop naturally. Learn timeless techniques for portraits, pets, still life, landscapes, and more — with structured, easy-to-follow guidance from MazArt Academy.

Halloween Spooky Special Oil Painting Tutorial by Marion Dutton

The Witches Table: A Study in light, shadow and story.

A moody still life painted in the classical grisaille style using just four tones. The Witch’s Table explores light, shadow, and storytelling — a timeless study now available to paint inside MazArt Academy.

Marion Dutton

Nov 3, 20252 min read

Copper & Bloom | Classical Oil Painting Tutorial

Copper & Bloom is a quiet study in warmth and light — a reminder that beauty unfolds slowly. Built through layers of underpainting and soft glazes, this still life celebrates patience, balance, and the calm that comes from painting with intention.

Marion Dutton

Nov 3, 20252 min read

The Cleansing Ritual | Classical Oil Painting Tutorial

This June, we painted The Cleansing Ritual — a Vermeer-esque oil study capturing the quiet dignity of everyday life. Through the classical underpainting and layering method, we explored how light, form, and patience combine to create timeless realism.

Marion Dutton

Oct 9, 20252 min read

Building Realism Layer by Layer: The Snow Ghost Oil Painting Project

Discover how we built this stunning snow leopard, Snow Ghost, layer by layer throughout September inside MazArt Academy. Using the classical underpainting and layering technique, we explored how drying time and patience bring true depth and realism to oil painting.

Marion Dutton

Oct 5, 20252 min read