Oil Painting for Beginners or Intermediates, Crafting YOUR Contemporary Oil Painting Style & Visual Storytelling

From 52.64 £ /h

Master the Art of Oil Painting: From First Stroke to Final Varnish

With 20+ Years of Professional Experience, American gallery artist Danny offers a mentorship that blends technical precision, and contemporary surreal and underground style methods, with the soul of traditional fine art.
Whether you are an 8-year-old picking up a brush for the first time or a retiree looking to finally master the "Medium of Masters," I offer a patient, technical, and highly flexible approach to oil painting.

Oil painting has a reputation for being "difficult," but it is actually the most forgiving medium once you understand the rules. My goal isn't just to teach you to paint—it's to teach you to see like an artist.
Why Study With Me?

Tailored Mentorship: I don’t use a "one size fits all" curriculum. We paint what you are passionate about, whether it’s a family pet, a surreal landscape, or a classic portrait.

All Ages Welcome: I specialize in guiding teenagers (8–18) through foundational skills, but I find that adults often appreciate the deeper "why" behind color theory and composition.

Adaptive Pace: Whether you want a structured technical course or a relaxed, therapeutic creative outlet, I adapt to your comfort level and goals.

Lessons will be in English as I am still learning Dutch.

"I’m have been an active painter in the Pop-Surrealist and Lowbrow scene and Arts District participant in Las Vegas, NV, USA. My work isn't about stiff portraits or museum stillness—it’s about narrative, urban energy, and technical mastery applied to subjects that actually matter today. I teach the 'old world' techniques of oil painting, but we use them to create 'new world' art. I’m a working artist, not a theorist. For 20 years, I’ve been in the trenches of oil painting and digital design. I don't care about 'high-art' pretension; I care about the physics of paint, the flow of a brush, and helping you find your own visual voice."

Ready to start?

I am available for lessons at your home in Amsterdam or at a neutral creative space. I can also offer veranda style outdoors space in my home in Weesp, if the weather is being generous!

Extra information

The "Starter Kit" (Basic Materials)

Note: For our first lesson, I can provide all materials. For ongoing lessons, I recommend this foundational kit (available at Boesner or De Hamer):

The Paint: A basic "Introductory" set of Oil Colors (Titainium White, Ultramarine Blue, Cadmium Red, Cadmium Yellow, and Burnt Umber).
The Brushes: A small variety of "Hog Bristle" or "Synthetic Mongoose" brushes (Flat, Round, and Filbert shapes).
The Surface: Stretched canvases or "Oil Painting Paper" pads (A4 or A3).
The Mediums: Odorless Mineral Spirits (Gamsol) for cleaning brushes and a small bottle of Linseed Oil.
The Essentials: A palette (wooden or disposable paper), a couple of glass jars for cleaning, and a roll of paper towels.

Location

Use Ctrl + wheel to zoom!

At student's location :

Around Weesp, Netherlands

About Me

Hi, I’m Danny. I am a contemporary painter whose work is often described as cinematic and visceral, merging emotionally charged figurative subjects with a surrealist edge. I love playing with the tension between "wildness and design"—using animal symbolism, rich textures, and movement to tell unresolved stories.

Originally I am from the neon-drenched intensity of Las Vegas, USA, but am now cultivating my practice in the Netherlands. I have spent a career navigating the dialogue between traditional oil painting and the high-precision world of digital concept art (Konami, Playtika). As a father and a long-time creator, I’ve learned that the best art comes from a place of "chaos and wonder." I don’t believe in being a rigid lecturer or a dry historian; I believe in being a partner in your creative process.

For me, art is not merely a depiction of the world, but a manifestation of consciousness, connection, and the strange balance between wildness and design.

What We Can Explore Together I offer a flexible, "no-stress" environment where we focus on what actually matters to you.

My Teaching Approach Having run art galleries and workshops in Las Vegas, I know that everyone starts at a different place. I’m a little bit technical when you need the "how-to," but relaxed and casual when you need the "why." My goal isn't just to teach you how to paint a picture; it’s to give you the tools and the confidence to express what’s in your head.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a new hobby or a developing artist looking to sharpen your professional edge, let’s sit down, get a bit messy, and see what we can create.

Education

Community College Southern Nevada (20+ credit hours in Life Drawing, Oil painting, and airbrush
Arts Institute of Las Vegas (30+ credit hours in Traditional mediums, figure drawing, Digital arts - Adobe Suite programs, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects)

Experience / Qualifications

Numerous shows and gallery exhibitions as part of the Downtown Las Vegas Arts Scene, and First Friday participant.
15+ years in the video games/mobile gaming industry as a senior or principal illustrator, with some focus on 3D modeling (Blender/Maya), video graphics, and animation.

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Duration

60 minutes

90 minutes

120 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Dutch

Skills

Art

Painting

Graphic design

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

At student's home

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Natalia

5.0

(7)

For beginners: if you don't know where to start, you're in a good place :)
I can help you with choosing instrument (first months best choice is to go for rental so you can decide what feels comfortable for you), give you first exercises and help with short and long term direction.

Bring your enthusiasm, goals and love for music and let's get started!

Yassine

5.0

(7)

Professional Retouching, Photoshop Workflows, Basics & Advanced Methods, Problem Solving, Pixels as Objects.

Learn Photoshop the right way. Skyrocket your knowledge of the User Interface, Color, Lighting, Professional Methods, Tools, Tricks and thinking.

My Course is meant for Photographers and Designers. I teach professionals who want to up their game and students who are looking for a crash course to get them comfortable with the software.

Khatchik

5.0

(7)

Sketch? Drawing a model? Painting with oil, watercolor or acrylic paint? I am happy to help you with this. I challenge you and I support you to develop your skills step by step, adapted to your level, into a fully-fledged work of art. We start with basic techniques, shadows, proportions, then we can make still lifes, portraits and even compositions.
I work as a museum teacher in various museums, including The Rembrandt House and the Hermitage. I am involved in a broad educational offer for various groups and individuals: from students in groups 4, 5 and 6 to gymnasium students and adults interested in culture and history. On the basis of various museum pieces I give different workshops, lessons, interactive tours at different understanding levels.
lesson

#drawing lesson #painting lesson #art history

Eva

5.0

(7)

I am a multidisciplinary artist and designer with fifteen years of experience. I studied art and architecture at the École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and the Columbia University in New York. I teach painting, drawing, digital image and creativity. This class is ideal for beginners but also intermediate students who want to develop their own style.

For my personal projects, I work in a wide range of mediums, from drawing, painting and printmaking to digital image and 3D Printing. When teaching, I prefer to first focus on free-hand drawing and painting as this allows for greater spontaneity regardless of the student's technical level. We later explore other methods based on the student's individual interests. I like to teach children and adults via mini projects involving art history references and help them develop narratives around their work. I deeply believe in people's creative potential and in my classes will help you channel your own voice.

Ossa

5.0

(7)

A fun private lesson (max. 2 persons) at my studio.

Treat yourself and/or bring your partner, mother, friend or girlfriend.
Dive into the world of watercolor painting for 3 hours; when should you let go of control while painting? And when do you take back this control. Surprise yourself with how quickly you progress with some simple tips and basic knowledge.

It doesn't matter if you are an absolute beginner or someone who already acquired experience would like to deepen or refresh this knowledge. You are welcome and fun is paramount!

The workshop lasts 3 hours including a small break. Coffee and tea are included.

Please contact, day and time can be discussed. I am flexible available in Friday Saturday and Sunday. The price is for one person.

Přemysl

5.0

(7)

I can teach you the basics of drawing such as perspective and shading. As for painting, i can show you whole the process of oil painting starting by fixing the canvas on a frame, bedmaking, isolation and painting itself. I can show you the basic methods of watercolor as well.

From woodwork I can let you know how to work with chisel, drawknife and how to sharp these tools well.

Annet

5.0

(7)

Fancy a creative splurge? Join Annet on a photographic adventure! See the world with a cinematic look. Smartphone is always key with Annet. She will challenge you to take the best picture of the morning or afternoon. Because there can only be one winner!

What can you expect from the workshop?

- a 2-hour creative boost;
- the magic of photography in a few basic principles.
- tips & tricks about post-processing (apps);

Annet's approach is personal and direct. Confrontational too, because sometimes it is necessary to burst out of your daily bubble.

In addition to individual workshops, Annet provides training to journalists, healthcare providers, and clients such as Apple Benelux, 100% Radio, Prudential, Avans University of Applied Sciences, the Municipality of Amsterdam, D66, and Vrije Universiteit.

Summer

5.0

(7)

With ovrr 20 years of experience, I have taught both primary and secondary education in private and public schools. During this time, I have worked with second-language English learners as well as students with learning disabilities.

Additionally, I can provide assistance in helping your child improve their organizational skills.

Please note that I offer tutoring exclusively in Amsterdam and not in the surrounding areas.

Naomi

5.0

(7)

Hi!

I'm Naomi, a visual artist, curator, and art educator (courses and workshops) with a focus on painting and drawing. You can find my art and more information about my practice at 'www.naomimakkelie.nl'.

As an experienced artist and art educator in the form of Painting Workshops at Treehouse NDSM, I offer a unique approach to art education. My background in art studies at HKU, a year of Psychology at UvA, and the rich teaching experiences of my family form the foundation of my teaching method. I possess an in-depth knowledge of contemporary painting and techniques, far removed from the conventional painting courses that often limit themselves to replicating models or still lifes. I am eager to share these modern insights to prepare you for a future in the current art world, which is a crucial part of the admission process to art academies.

In my career, I have explored the power of personal expression through art, both in my own work and in guiding aspiring artists. My experience ranges from conducting workshops at Treehouse NDSM to developing my own Art Practice, where I exhibit and display my work, and of course, spend a significant amount of time creating my art. However, there's so much more involved, which many art academies unfortunately don't pay much attention to, such as promoting your work through Social Media, your Website, and applications for prizes and grants. I won the Buning Brongers Prize in 2018, and was nominated that same year for the Royal Prize for Modern Painting and the Dooyewaard Stipendium. I can also guide you in applying for grants, prizes, and other types of applications, help you write Artist Statements and Project Plans (for grants), and of course, with the writing part of the application to art academies. I can also provide information more focused on the art practice, building your own business. In today's times, this gives many self-taught artists the opportunity to set up an art practice through the internet and entrepreneurial skills, with an online shop selling (limited-edition or open-edition) prints of their paintings or drawings, and amazingly, many artists are able to earn a decent income this way, with some going viral on platforms like Instagram and suddenly becoming world-famous. This is not something that happens quickly or often, but it does represent a significant shift in the Contemporary Art World, which previously was much harder to establish your own business and art practice, making the artist much more dependent on representation by a Gallery.

My lessons focus on (re)discovering the joy of making art. I believe that every individual has a unique creative process, and that in art, there is no right or wrong. With my extensive knowledge of people, I can tailor guidance and coaching to meet the needs and interests of each student. Whether it's about building an impressive portfolio, exploring pre-courses, or navigating the choices of art academies and directions, I'm ready to share my expertise. Also, having studied at various Academies in the Netherlands (KABK, HKU, and Frank Mohr Institute (Master of Fine Arts) but also being admitted to the foundation year of Rietveld, which I chose not to pursue, I can explain exactly what the different expectations are of each Academy, which can vary considerably. Each Academy has its own approach and philosophy.

In my workshops and personal coaching sessions, you'll learn not only the essential skills of the trade but also how to further develop your own style. This includes professionally stretching canvases and applying contemporary painting techniques that are essential for successful admission to the art academy. I am a professional painter and draughtsman, but can guide you in almost any medium and material.

Located in the bright and inspiring studio at Treehouse NDSM, or on location in Amsterdam (with a possible travel expense reimbursement outside Amsterdam), I offer an environment where creativity and individual expression are central.

Are you ready to elevate your artistic skills, rediscover the joy of art creation, build a portfolio for admission to an art academy, and prepare for the admission process to greatly increase your chances of being admitted? I can also explore with the student which Academy best suits him/her, having experience with multiple academies, I can look together with the student at what best fits them, and provide enough information about what it's like at an art academy to reduce the chance of dropping out early due to a 'wrong picture' of what it's like at an academy.

For more information, contact me about my offerings and how I can support you in your unique creative development and discovering where your talents lie!

Tonny

5.0

(7)

Undergo with your love, muse, partner, or all of these at once, a romantic course of painting a nude.
One of you will give up their clothes for a morning, afternoon or evening, whilst the other paints them in the style of a famous nude portrait of their choice, (like Venus of Urbino - 1585 by Titian).
Hosted by Artists and art historians Tonny and Janne Igbuwe. They will take you on a sensory journey through history, intimacy and artistry.
You'll be invited into the Artist's studio (decorated like the chosen painting to the best of our ability) where you'll be received with a drink and a small appetizer.
During the workshop, you will not only learn about painting techniques and portraiture, but we'll also explain the history behind the painting you'll be recreating. A spectacularly romantic experience to never forget.
Location: Jan Zijvertstraat, Geuzenveld, Amsterdam.
The workshop lasts for about 2 hours.

paint your muse naked
(For English above)
Take a romantic nude painting course with your love, muse, partner or all of these at once.
One of you will give up his or her clothes for a morning, afternoon or evening, while the other paints them in the style of a famous nude portrait of your choice, as pictured above(↑).
Your hosts are artists and art historians Tonny Kwint and Janne Igbuwe. They will take you on a sensory journey through history, intimacy and artistry.
You will be invited to the studio of the artist Tonny (which will be decorated afterwards based on the chosen painting) where you will be welcomed with a drink and an amuse.
During the workshop you will not only learn about painting techniques and portraiture, but we will also explain the history of the painting you are going to imitate. A spectacularly romantic experience to never forget.
Location: Jan Zijvertstraat, Geuzenveld, Amsterdam.
The workshop lasts approximately 2 hours.

Poppie-Joy

5.0

(7)

Learn, Create, and Perform with Poppie-Joy

(SOON : LESSONS IN DUTCH)

With a background melting classical and contemporary clarinet performance, to theatrical movement, masks, and storytelling, I bring a fresh approach to music education. My experience includes leading creative workshops for children through the Philharmonie de Paris and developing artistic projects for young audiences.

In my classes, we explore sound as character, rhythm as movement, and performance as story.
For me, the body is the key to learning : I guide students to develop their body awareness as part of learning, an approach often missing from traditional lessons.

We will explore:

Clarinet technique
Musical interpretation
Improvisation and creativity exercises
Stage presence, movement, and breathing
Connecting music to visual or theatrical elements
Bonus (if possible and committed!) :programming small performances for families, social gatherings, or cultural events

My teaching philosophy: Music is not only notes on a page, it’s a living art that connects body, breath, and imagination. I meet each student where they are, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and authentic expression.

Open to all ages and levels, from beginners discovering their first notes to advanced players seeking to deepen their artistry.

Julia

5.0

(7)

Hi! I'm Julia, a Fine Art student at HKU, and I love helping kids explore their creativity through art. I offer fun, personalised art classes for children aged 4-13, where they can experiment, express themselves, and develop their artistic skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.

I grew up in Asia and the UK, so I'm fluent in both Dutch and English-meaning I can also mix in some language tutoring if that's something you'd like!
I've worked with kids for years including two years as an art teacher at Hampstead School of Art in London and as a painting instructor at Timberlake Summer Camp in the US.
I truly believe that creativity is one of the most valuable things to nurture from a young age. My own love for art started in childhood art classes, and I’d to love to help spark that same excitement!

Lesson format: Let me know what your child is interested in, and we can create a lesson plan that fits them perfectly!

Elene

5.0

(7)

As a multidisciplinary artist, I believe that strong digital work is rooted in traditional mastery. This course combines the tactile logic of oil painting and watercolors with the power of Photoshop and digital design. We begin with the core fundamentals, anatomy, still life, and composition before transitioning those skills into the digital space.

You will learn to control digital brushes, build convincing lighting, and apply color with intention. We move beyond simple tutorials to tackle character design, surreal environments, and professional workflows. By the end of this course, you will have a body of polished, original work and a deep understanding of the design fundamentals that make an image successful in any medium.

By the end, you’ll produce portfolio-ready artworks and understand a professional workflow from sketch to finish. Each session combines hands-on exercises with discussion of artistic choices, so you strengthen both technical skill and creative judgment.

This course is for beginners and intermediate artists who want to go beyond tutorials and actually build a body of polished, original work.

Paco

5.0

(7)

In this course, you'll learn the essentials of Adobe Photoshop. We'll start with the basics: how Photoshop works, how to set up files, use layers, make selections, edit images, and work with text, color, and composition. No tricks, just a clear foundation.

The focus is on understanding why you do something, not just how. You'll learn to view Photoshop as a creative tool: how to compose images, how to make choices, and how to gain control over your workflow.

Luba

5.0

(7)

Let me show you how creative you already are! In this class we will explore creativity through engaging exercises, imagination challenges, games, storytelling, observation, and experimentation. The goal isn’t to become an artist – it’s to strengthen curiosity, confidence, flexible thinking, and the ability to generate new ideas.

Suitable for children, teenagers, and adults, these sessions are adapted to each person’s age, interests, and goals. Whether you’re looking to nurture a child’s imagination, reconnect with your own creativity, or simply try something new, you’ll find a supportive space to explore without pressure or judgment.

No previous experience is required – only curiosity 😊