A live course taught by John English
Build a solid foundation in traditional oil techniques—then break out of the box. This hands-on workshop blends classical methods with bold process and exploration.
Course Description:
Oil painting is one of the richest, most expressive mediums an artist can explore—and in this workshop, you’ll discover just how many ways there are to use it. Over three weeks, you’ll gain hands-on experience with both time-honored and unconventional techniques that open new doors in your painting practice. Whether you’re refining your fundamentals or ready to break the rules, this course will equip you with fresh tools and creative momentum.
Underpainting & Foundations
Building structure with traditional oil techniques.
Thin-to-Thick Application
Creating depth through layering and brushwork.
Wet-onto-Wet Oil Painting (alla prima oil painting)
Blending directly on the canvas for rich transitions.
Acrylic Underpainting
Laying fast-drying groundwork for oil layers.
Oiling In
Merging acrylic and oil for a unified surface.
Mixed Media Integration
Experimenting with pastels, sticks, tar & more.
Material Exploration
Learning tools & techniques for every approach.
Creative Process & Critique
Getting feedback to sharpen your artistic voice.
Course Dates
Aug. 25 – Sept. 8
Live Class Meetings
Mondays, 5-7pm PT (8-10pm ET)
Mediums
Traditional and Non-traditional Oil
Length
3 Weeks (6 Live Meetings)
Price
$299
The Traditional:
Homeroom:
Mondays Zoom Meeting (2 hours)
Study Hall:
Wednesday Zoom Meeting (1-2 hours)
Topics: Study Hall is an optional weekly resource. Group critique, assistance on homework and general support by VAP mentors from each program.
Discord:
Post progress, ask questions, connect and network with fellow classmates, while gaining insights from VAP mentors throughout the week.
Details:
Homeroom:
Mondays Zoom Meeting (2 hours)
Study Hall:
Wednesday Zoom Meeting (1-2 hours)
Topics: Study Hall is an optional weekly resource. Group critique, assistance on homework and general support by VAP mentors from each program.
Discord:
Post progress, ask questions, connect and network with fellow classmates, while gaining insights from VAP mentors throughout the week.
Homeroom:
Mondays Zoom Meeting (2 hours)
Study Hall:
Wednesday Zoom Meeting (1-2 hours)
Topics: Study Hall is an optional weekly resource. Group critique, assistance on homework and general support by VAP mentors from each program.
Discord:
Post progress, ask questions, connect and network with fellow classmates, while gaining insights from VAP mentors throughout the week.
Classes are live & fully interactive with lectures, demos, and guest artists.
Jump into our private community—share your work, get pro feedback, and swap ideas with artists like you.
Drop into live critique sessions for direct, no-fluff feedback and real talk with a crew of professional artists.
View options at checkout
Instructor: Raymond Bonilla
Illustration
Workshop
All Skill Levels
Learn how to create illustrations for trading and tabletop games and major CCG studios.
Length: 4 weeks
