Oil Painting..Getting Started???

[Carlson]

Hi,

I've been into art and drawing since before I can remember, but
i has never been the most important thing in my life. I don't really
believe that I will go on to support myself and my future family solely
on art. But sometimes I get a sad feeling wondering why someone hasn't
created a Aerospace Engineering/Art school. I kind of feel like
engineering would be my art but I still feel that pull. So I'm going to
do it on my own. Without any schooling atleast not yet.

MY POINT>>>>You were probably wondering when I would get to it!
Well I want to get started oil painting, and I was wondering if some of
you might give me some tips on how to get started.
Mostly what i need is some tips on:

Materials: What kinds, sizes, etc.
Paints: How much, what kind, size, brands
Canvas: A friend suggested canvas board is this
better that stretched?
Any other help you can give me?
Should I get a cheapy 10 buck easel, or a 30-40
dollar one, or do i not even need one??

Thanks
Brian Carlson
terryc...@sprintmail.com

[William Barkin]

Hey, peruse the art/craft section of book stores and check out the self
help books for "free info"

[Holly White]

Carlson,

Carnegie Melon is one such school. If you want to pursue engineering,
do the school. You can still paint. If you are a painter of integrity,
the engineering will somehow influence your art (no matter how conscious
you are of it), as will everything you do. That's what a well known
artist told us art students while I was in art school. I think he's
right.

As far as materials - anything goes. I mean, it just depends on your
intentions. Do you want something to last? Do you want it to take on
age or deteriorate? Will you paint slowly and meticulously? Do you
want coarse materials for rough expression? You may not know until you
start. And then you may change your mind, lots of times.

Start anywhere, and as you work, your expressive needs will dictate the
materials. It's about discovery, right? In aerospace or in yourself.

-Holly