The Seven-Layer Painting Technique

Seven Layers. One Complete Painting. Oil painter and instructor Jan Matejak guides you through the complete construction of a luminous classical still life: a light olive imprimatura, three umber underpaintings, grisaille, and two controlled color layers. Learn to establish value before color, keep shadows transparent, preserve warm underlayers beneath cooler halftones, and concentrate reflections and detail where they matter most. This illustrated workshop includes drawing and transfer, preparation, the purpose of each layer, common mistakes, corrections, completion checks, a studio checklist, and a glossary.