Thursdays, September 3 - September 24 , 9:30 am - 12:00 pm - 4 Sessions

Oil and Cold Wax - Building with Layers

Have you ever looked at an oil and cold wax painting and wondered how it got that rich, textured surface that seems to have so much depth and life? The secret is layers — and in this class, you'll learn exactly how to build them.

This four-week studio class is open to all skill levels, including complete beginners. No prior painting experience is needed, just a curiosity about materials and a willingness to experiment.

Using oil paint and cold wax medium, you'll explore how to build up surfaces with tools, carve back into layers to reveal color beneath, and create paintings that feel tactile, luminous, and alive. Cold wax is a forgiving and endlessly interesting medium — it rewards experimentation over perfection so you can focus on enjoying the process.

Each week we'll focus on a different way of working with layers:

• Adding texture and building surfaces with palette knives and found tools
• Carving and scraping back to reveal what's underneath
• Layering transparently to create depth and a sense of glow
• Bringing it all together in a finished piece that is uniquely yours

In each session we will add new layers to our 4 panels, giving you new techniques for your toolkit, and a growing understanding of how to let a painting develop over time rather than forcing it to be finished all at once.

All skill levels welcome.

SUPPLIES INSTRUCTOR WILL PROVIDE

• Gamsol
• Stencils
• Bubble wrap envelopes
• Collage material
• Gesso
• Frog tape
• Extra Squeegees, brayers and other supplies

SUPPLIES TO BRING

• Four cradled wood panels-9” x 12” or 12” x 12” – you can buy them in sets on Amazon
• Oil paints (any colors)
• Gamlin cold wax medium
• Squeegees or bowl scrapers
• Paper towels
• Wax paper
• Tissue paper
• Palette knives
• Rubber/latex gloves
• Brayer
• Carving tools – get creative (sticks, old kitchen things, pottery tools)
• Oil paint brushes – not specific, just a small mix
• Oil paint sticks (optional)
• Cardboard boxes to transport wet paintings (pizza boxes are great

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Lisa Riannson is a Colorado artist and experienced art instructor who loves helping people explore their creativity. With a knack for breaking down techniques and making art approachable, she’s taught workshops, private lessons, and community sessions for artists of all levels. Lisa’s teaching style focuses on building confidence while having fun, whether she’s guiding beginners through watercolor basics or helping more advanced students refine their skills. She believes art has the power to connect people and bring joy, and she’s passionate about sharing that with her students.

QUESTIONS

Please direct questions to Lisa at lisa@lisariannson.com.