[MikeP]

ok, i have been using photoshop for a while, but mostly in relation to web design and photo manip type stuff. that is, i haven't really done that much painting with it at all.

however, i have been frequenting this board and ones like it for a while, and checking out information on painted art (mostly digital). i have been also practicing drawing a bit, but no real painting (either traditional or digital...well, that is except for some stuff when i was younger and not as interested in art). i would like to start painting and from what i gather, i should start with traditional media and not do too much with photoshop at the beginning.

anyway, here is my question: for someone essentially starting out (at least in painting) and working on traditional media (probably oil, although i am not sure what paint is best for a beginner...suggestions are welcome), is it best to try to do very many quick paintings to try to get a hold on general form and color and value (like the 500 painting idea thing, only not on the computer), or is it better to do only a couple paintings and spend a lot of time practicing doing detail and rendering? or is it some mix of the two?

any help is appreciated, and i apologize if this topic has been covered already

[Lukias]

(I'm not really the person in the know...if you know what i mean)
But, I'd say quicker more gestural pics would be the go.

If you were to attempt a nice detailed piece without the proper knowledge then your bound to get frustrated with the end result.

Especially considering you spend alot more time and effort to end up with something that your not sattisfied with..
2 cents.

[Mike]

i suggest you start with acrylic paint. it's cheap and easy, cleans with water, etc. since you're just getting started, try getting used to it by spending an hour or so doing 8x10 b/w value studies of thing. if you want, you can always glaze color over it later.

it's best if you take a few classes so you always have someone to show different things.

[MikeP]

alright, thanks for the replies. i will be taking a class in art next year i think at my high school, but i want to start painting now and do a lot of practicing over the summer.