What is the main advantage of using oil paint over other paint media? And why does it sometimes feel like painting with melted crayons?

What is the main advantage of using oil paint over other paint media? And why does it sometimes feel like painting with melted crayons?

Oil painting has long been revered as one of the most versatile and enduring mediums in the art world. Its unique properties offer artists a range of advantages that set it apart from other paint media, such as acrylics, watercolors, and gouache. From its rich texture to its unparalleled blending capabilities, oil paint provides a depth and luminosity that is difficult to achieve with other materials. But what exactly makes oil paint stand out, and why do some artists feel like they’re working with melted crayons when they first dive into this medium? Let’s explore the main advantages of oil paint and the quirks that make it both beloved and challenging.

1. Rich and Vibrant Colors

One of the most significant advantages of oil paint is its ability to produce rich, vibrant colors. The pigments in oil paint are suspended in oil, typically linseed oil, which gives the paint a glossy, luminous finish. This allows the colors to retain their intensity and depth, even after drying. Unlike water-based paints, which can appear flat or dull once dry, oil paints maintain their vibrancy, making them ideal for creating lifelike and dynamic artworks.

2. Slow Drying Time

Oil paint is known for its slow drying time, which can be both an advantage and a challenge. On the positive side, the extended drying period allows artists to work on their pieces for days or even weeks, making it easier to blend colors, correct mistakes, and add intricate details. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for artists who enjoy working in layers or who want to achieve smooth transitions between colors. However, the slow drying time can also be frustrating for those who prefer quicker results, leading some to joke that oil painting feels like working with melted crayons—soft, malleable, and sometimes unpredictable.

3. Blending and Layering

The slow drying time of oil paint also makes it exceptionally well-suited for blending and layering. Artists can seamlessly mix colors on the canvas, creating gradients and transitions that are difficult to achieve with faster-drying mediums like acrylics. Additionally, the ability to layer paint without disturbing the underlying layers allows for the creation of complex textures and depth. This layering technique, known as “glazing,” is a hallmark of traditional oil painting and is used to achieve a sense of realism and luminosity.

4. Versatility in Application

Oil paint can be applied in a variety of ways, from thick, impasto strokes to thin, translucent washes. This versatility allows artists to experiment with different techniques and styles, from the bold, expressive brushwork of the Impressionists to the meticulous detail of the Old Masters. The medium can be used on a range of surfaces, including canvas, wood, and even metal, further expanding its creative potential.

5. Durability and Longevity

Oil paintings are renowned for their durability and longevity. When properly cared for, oil paintings can last for centuries without significant deterioration. The oil binder not only protects the pigments but also creates a flexible film that is less prone to cracking or fading over time. This makes oil paint an excellent choice for artists who want their work to stand the test of time.

6. Texture and Body

The thick, buttery consistency of oil paint gives it a unique texture that adds dimension and tactile quality to a painting. Artists can manipulate the paint to create a variety of effects, from smooth, glass-like surfaces to rough, textured finishes. This physicality of oil paint is one of the reasons it feels so different from other mediums—like working with melted crayons, it has a tangible, almost sculptural quality that invites experimentation.

7. Historical Significance and Tradition

Oil painting has a rich history that dates back centuries, with many of the world’s most famous artworks created using this medium. From the Renaissance masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt to modern artists like Vincent van Gogh and Frida Kahlo, oil paint has been the medium of choice for countless artistic geniuses. This historical significance adds a layer of prestige and tradition to the medium, making it a favorite among artists who value the connection to art history.

8. Challenges and Learning Curve

While oil paint offers many advantages, it also comes with a steep learning curve. The slow drying time, the need for solvents and mediums, and the potential for cracking or yellowing over time can be daunting for beginners. Additionally, the medium’s unique properties—such as its tendency to separate or “sink in” if not applied correctly—can make it feel like working with melted crayons at times. However, these challenges are part of what makes oil painting so rewarding. Mastering the medium requires patience, practice, and a willingness to embrace its quirks.

9. Environmental and Health Considerations

One of the downsides of oil paint is its reliance on solvents and chemicals, which can be harmful to both the artist and the environment. Traditional oil painting often involves the use of turpentine or mineral spirits for thinning paint and cleaning brushes, which can release toxic fumes. However, many modern artists are turning to safer alternatives, such as water-mixable oils or odorless mineral spirits, to mitigate these risks.

10. Emotional and Sensory Experience

Finally, oil painting offers a deeply sensory and emotional experience that is hard to replicate with other mediums. The smell of linseed oil, the feel of the paint under the brush, and the slow, deliberate process of building up layers all contribute to a meditative and immersive creative process. For many artists, this tactile and sensory engagement is one of the most rewarding aspects of working with oil paint.


Q: Can oil paint be used on surfaces other than canvas?
A: Yes, oil paint can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and even paper, as long as the surface is properly primed to prevent the oil from damaging it.

Q: How long does it take for oil paint to dry?
A: The drying time for oil paint can vary depending on factors like humidity, temperature, and the thickness of the paint. Generally, it takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks for oil paint to dry completely.

Q: Is oil paint more expensive than other types of paint?
A: Oil paint can be more expensive than water-based paints like acrylics or watercolors, primarily due to the cost of high-quality pigments and the oil binder. However, its durability and versatility often make it a worthwhile investment for serious artists.

Q: Can oil paint be mixed with other mediums?
A: Yes, oil paint can be mixed with various mediums, such as linseed oil, turpentine, or alkyd resins, to alter its consistency, drying time, or finish. However, it should not be mixed with water-based mediums, as they are not compatible.

Q: Why does oil paint sometimes feel like melted crayons?
A: The thick, malleable consistency of oil paint, combined with its slow drying time, can make it feel similar to working with melted crayons. This unique texture is part of what makes oil painting both challenging and rewarding.