If you're searching for oil painting classes near Denver, one of the first questions you may have is whether to learn with oil paint or acrylic paint.
Both mediums can produce beautiful artwork, and both have passionate fans. In fact, in my own home studio, I regularly paint with both. I enjoy experimenting with acrylics, oils, and sometimes even combining the two techniques in the same piece. Each medium has strengths, and I think every artist benefits from exploring both.
That said, when it comes to teaching beginners, there's a reason I continue to love introducing students to oil painting.
Understanding the Difference Between Oil and Acrylic Paint
The biggest difference between oil and acrylic paint is drying time.
Acrylic paint dries quickly, often within minutes. This makes it a popular choice for paint-and-sip events, decorative painting, and artists who enjoy working in layers.
Oil paint dries much more slowly. Depending on the conditions, it may remain workable for days.
That extra working time gives artists the ability to blend colors directly on the canvas, soften transitions, and make adjustments as the painting develops.
For landscape painting, those qualities can be especially helpful.
Why Bob Ross Chose Oil Paint
Bob Ross built his entire teaching method around oil paint.
His famous Wet-on-Wet Technique® relies on applying wet paint over a prepared surface, allowing colors to blend naturally on the canvas. The technique creates soft clouds, distant mountains, misty backgrounds, and realistic reflections that would be difficult to achieve the same way with fast-drying acrylics.
One of the reasons Bob Ross became so popular was his ability to help beginners create impressive landscapes in a relatively short period of time. Oil paint was an essential part of making that possible.
Is Oil Painting Harder Than Acrylic Painting?
Many beginners assume oil painting is more difficult because it has a reputation as a traditional fine art medium.
Interestingly, many of my students discover the opposite.
Because oil paint stays wet longer, it can actually be more forgiving. If a tree doesn't look quite right or a mountain needs adjustment, there's often time to blend, soften, or paint over an area before it dries.
That flexibility helps remove some of the pressure that beginners often feel.
One of the most common comments I hear during class is:
"I thought this was going to be much harder."
By the end of the workshop, students are often surprised by what they've accomplished in just a few hours.
Why I Enjoy Teaching Oil Painting
While I enjoy working with both oils and acrylics in my home studio, oil painting continues to be my favorite medium for teaching.
There's something rewarding about watching students discover what they can create when they slow down and trust the process. The Wet-on-Wet Technique® allows beginners to experience success quickly, which builds confidence and makes painting enjoyable rather than intimidating.
Many students arrive convinced they aren't artistic. A few hours later, they're holding a completed landscape featuring mountains, trees, clouds, and reflections.
That's one of the reasons I became a Certified Ross Instructor®. I love introducing people to a medium that feels approachable, relaxing, and surprisingly achievable.
Looking for Oil Painting Classes Near Denver?
If you've been curious about learning oil painting, a beginner-friendly Bob Ross® Wet-on-Wet Technique® workshop is a great place to start.
Classes are taught by Certified Ross Instructor Jen DeVore Richter and are designed specifically for beginners. All supplies are included, and you'll complete a full landscape painting during the workshop.
Workshops are held at Ethan's Gallery & Studio in Olde Town Arvada, just minutes from Denver.
Whether you're exploring a new hobby, looking for a creative outlet, or searching for oil painting classes near Denver, you'll discover that painting is less about perfection and more about enjoying the creative process.
Ready to Give Oil Painting a Try?
Join us for an upcoming workshop and experience the joy of creating your own landscape using Bob Ross's famous Wet-on-Wet Technique®. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided.