There are many ways to use black when painting in oils. Black is actually a very important color in oil painting, and can make your composition have depth and emotion. Although black is a strong color, it can be used in ways that subdue it and allow other colors to use it as a foundation. Here are some of the many ways to use black when painting with oil paints.
Instructions
1. Use black as a background. When painting with oil paints, it is a standard practice to paint the entire background of the canvas in a single color, usually white, in order to even out the lumps and creases of the canvas. Black can be used in this fashion to create an evening or sunset composition. Simply load your brush with black oil paint and cover the entire canvas with it, then let it dry before completing the rest of your painting.
2. Use black for deep shadows. Black can be used to accent deep shadowing in your painting, which can make a painting appear more emotional or haunting. As white can be used to instill awe and lightness to the observer, black can be used to instill thoughtfulness and intensity. Once you finish painting the basic blocking of the subject of your painting, and are starting to add in detailing, you can use black to create a more intense scene.
3. Use black for contrast shading. Contrast shading is shading that uses a more sharp and vibrant technique, with crisp edges and distinctive contrast between the light colors and the dark colors. You can use black oil paint to shade your painting using contrast shading, making your shaded areas dark and bold.
