The Oil Sketch - Nulla dies sine linea
An oil sketch or oil study is an artwork primarily created using oil paint as a preliminary step for a larger, completed piece. Initially, these were made as preparatory studies or modelli, mainly to obtain approval for the design of a larger commissioned painting. They were also utilized as templates for specialists in other media, such as printmaking or tapestry. Over time, they began to be produced as standalone works, often without the intention of being developed into a full-sized painting.
While drawings were the typical medium for modelli, an oil sketch, even when executed with a limited color palette, could more effectively suggest the tone of the intended work. It also allows for a more complete expression of the composition's flow and energy through paint. For a painter with exceptional skills, creating an oil sketch can be as quick as making a drawing, and many artists had excellent brushwork abilities. Due to its swift execution, the oil sketch can capture not only movement and fleeting effects of light and color but also, through its gestural quality, mirror the action of the subject.
Oil sketch on gessoes chipboard
Personally, I use the oil sketch as a way to loosen my hand and establish a mood for the day's work. There are times when I enter the studio and, for various reasons, it takes a while to feel the urge to stand before the easel. On such days, I either start tidying up my workspace or, more often, quickly sketch out my next project or an idea I've been considering but have other pieces to finish first. For me, the sketch serves as a motivational tool to inspire and exercise both my mind and hand. It's only recently that I've started framing these works and entering them into exhibitions as completed pieces.
The piece shown here is an oil sketch I created during one of my classes, based on a memory of a vacation I took to The Olana State Historic Site, the home of artist Fredrick Edwin Church. It was made quickly, and I feel comfortable doing these sketches from memory because I have created so many, literally hundreds. The more you do, the easier they become to create. I strongly recommend that artists, regardless of their level, start making these sketches in oil, watercolor, or acrylic, and set a specific time to complete them. Anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes should suffice, and enjoy the little gems you produce.
Nulla dies sine linea is a Latin phrase that translates to "no day without a line." This expression emphasizes the importance of daily practice and the discipline of consistent effort in any creative or intellectual endeavor. The phrase is often attributed to the ancient Roman painter Apelles, who is said to have adhered to this principle by ensuring that he produced at least one line of work each day, regardless of the circumstances. This commitment to daily creation not only fosters artistic growth but also cultivates a habit of perseverance and dedication. In a broader context, the idea behind "nulla dies sine linea" can be applied to various fields beyond painting, such as writing, music, and even academic pursuits. For writers, it serves as a reminder to write something every day, whether it be a few sentences, a paragraph, or an entire chapter, thereby keeping the creative juices flowing and avoiding the stagnation that can occur when one neglects their craft. Musicians might interpret this as a call to practice their instrument daily, ensuring that their skills remain sharp and that they continue to progress in their musical journey. Moreover, this phrase encourages individuals to view creativity not just as an occasional burst of inspiration, but as a discipline that requires regular attention and effort. By committing to the principle of "no day without a line," one can develop a routine that nurtures their talents and helps to transform their aspirations into tangible achievements. In this way, the phrase serves as both a motivational mantra and a practical guideline for anyone seeking to enhance their skills and pursue their passions with diligence and consistency. EB
Eric Buechel Fine Art
P.O. Box 277
Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 38578
931-881-7806
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