I am currently staying at Hamilton Island with my brother, sister, their partners, Chontele, and Elora.
Before we hopped on the flight, my sister asked if we are able to take oil paints and solvent on the flight. My initial response was “of course, just not in carry on”. But a quick Google search proved me wrong. No solvent on flights as it’s a flammable liquid. This is a tricky problem for an oil painter. It’s almost impossible to clean your brushes or thin the oil paint without it.
My solution: to paint with only palette knives (no brushes). This sidesteps the need for solvent. All that’s needed is a rag to wipe down the palette knife between strokes.
Here are some quick studies I did the other night as I watched the sunset from the balcony. Even with small studies like these, it’s a remarkable challenge to paint a subject that changes from minute to minute. In those last few minutes of workable light, you must work almost entirely on instinct. You simply don’t have time to make calculated thoughts.
But it’s amazing what happens when you don’t have time to think. The end results often appear lively, fresh, and honest.
I’ll let you know how the rest of the studies turn out (I try to paint a few each day). I’ll also try and gather a few reference photos for you, as I understand travel is limited for many at the moment.
Happy painting!
Dan Scott
drawpaintacademy.com
PS. If you don’t want to paint with palette knives, some other options are:
- Use watercolors, gouache, acrylics, or pencils (they don’t require solvent).
- Purchase solvent on location after the flight (limited circumstances).