Oil Sketch: Appreciation For The Spontaneity

"Woods Creek", By Eric Buechel, Private Collection

Detail of "Wood's Creek" 9" x 11.5"

The Oil Sketch

An oil sketch is an artwork primarily created using oil paint as a preliminary step for a larger, finished piece. This unique form of artistic expression has its roots in the practices of many renowned painters throughout history. Initially, these sketches were made as preparatory studies, particularly to obtain approval for the design of a larger commissioned painting. This process allowed artists to communicate their vision effectively to patrons, ensuring that the final piece aligned with the client’s expectations. They were also used as templates for specialists in other media, such as printmaking or tapestry, to follow, ensuring that the essence of the original design was preserved across different artistic formats. Over time, oil sketches evolved beyond their utilitarian origins, becoming valued as standalone works of art, often created without the intention of being developed into a full-size painting. This shift in perception highlights the increasing appreciation for the spontaneity and directness of the oil sketch as a legitimate form of artistic expression in its own right.

While drawings were the typical medium for modelli, or models, an oil sketch, even with a limited color palette, could better convey the tone, mood, and atmosphere of the intended work. The richness of oil paint allows for a depth of color and texture that can evoke emotions and sensations more powerfully than traditional drawing materials. Furthermore, oil sketches allow for a fuller expression of the flow and energy of a composition in paint. The fluidity of oil paint enables artists to capture the dynamic interplay of light and shadow, creating a sense of movement that is often more challenging to achieve with pencil or charcoal. For a painter with exceptional technique, creating an oil sketch can be as swift as drawing, and many artists possessed excellent brush skills that allowed them to work quickly and confidently. Due to its quick execution, the oil sketch can be used not only to capture movement and fleeting effects of light and color but its gestural quality may even parallel the action of the subject. This immediacy imbues the work with a sense of vitality, making each piece a snapshot of inspiration and creativity in motion.

In my case, the oil sketch is used as a vehicle to warm up in the studio and to teach my students the use of a quick hand to lay down pigment effectively. This practice is essential for developing their skills and understanding of color mixing, brushwork, and composition. However, I don't walk into my studio every day and run straight to my easel. Some days, I may have other thoughts on my mind, distractions that can hinder my creative flow. The sketches, whether they are in pencil, watercolor, or oil, serve as a gentle guide to help me transition into the artistic mindset I need to create. Over the many years of painting these sketches, I've come to really appreciate them more, especially after viewing John Constable's sketches at the Frist Museum in Nashville when his sketches from The Victoria & Albert Collection went on tour in 2012. Witnessing the raw energy and emotion captured in his works inspired me deeply, and I soon doubled my efforts in making these little gems, recognizing their significance in my artistic journey. I began entering them in exhibitions, gaining further validation and appreciation for this art form. I firmly believe that all collections must have a few sketches, as they bring added depth and context to a collection. They serve not only as a glimpse into the artist's creative process but also as a testament to the evolution of ideas and the exploration of artistic concepts that lead to more polished works. EB

The Oil Sketch

By Eric Buechel

In the tranquil ambiance of the studio's soft, diffused light, an oil sketch comes to life, dancing across the canvas with an exuberance that is both bold and bright. This artistic creation serves as a vehicle of warmth, a soothing start to the day’s creative endeavors. Each stroke of the brush is infused with intention, as colors blend seamlessly together, igniting the heart with their vibrancy and emotional resonance.

The studio itself is a sanctuary, filled with the rich scent of linseed oil and the subtle undertones of turpentine, creating an atmosphere that invites inspiration. As the artist moves gracefully, the natural light filters through the large windows, casting gentle shadows that play upon the surfaces of unfinished works and scattered palettes. The oil sketch, a captivating focal point, showcases a myriad of hues—deep crimson, radiant yellow, and tranquil azure—each chosen for its ability to evoke a specific feeling or memory.

As the artist layers the paint, the canvas transforms into a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, where the blending of colors creates depth and dimension. The vibrant pigments seem to pulse with energy, drawing the viewer's eye and encouraging them to explore the intricate details embedded within the artwork. It is in this dance of color that the heart finds solace, as the emotions captured on canvas resonate deeply, inviting introspection and connection.

In this sacred space, time seems to stand still, allowing for a deep exploration of creativity. The oil sketch becomes more than just a representation; it evolves into a narrative filled with stories waiting to be told. Each brushstroke is a whisper of inspiration, a moment of clarity that transcends the ordinary, inviting the artist and the observer alike to partake in a shared experience of beauty and expression. As the sketch continues to develop, it embodies the very essence of the artist's journey, reflecting not only their skill but also their passion and the profound connection to their craft.

Eric Buechel Fine Art

P.O. Box 277

Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 38578

931-881-7806

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