In this lesson, instructor Tina Orsolic Dalessio will take you through the history of the still-life painting genre. You will explore the hidden messages and symbolism behind still-life objects. Then, Tina will teach you the rules of pictorial composition. You will learn several standard composition designs such as triangle, L shape, steelyard, etc.

This lesson belongs to the course Introduction to Still-life Painting I. In this course, Tina Orsolic Dalessio will introduce you to the history and symbolism of still-life painting. You will examine the composition of artwork from the Old Masters. Then, you will learn how to set up to paint a still-life from life, create a color study, and sketch a transfer drawing in the sight-size method. Next, Tina will teach you how to tackle a painting from start to finish with oil paints. After this course, you will gain significant knowledge on still-life painting that can be applied to other genres.

Throughout this course, you’ll have access to the NMA community for feedback and critiques to improve your work as you progress.