I am often asked questions about why it takes so long to create a painting and why it costs so much

Today I would like to open the veil of mystery and take you through the entire path that a painting takes in my studio - from the inception of an idea to a finished work of art that will delight you for years to come. It is not just paint strokes, it is a multi-step, painstaking process that requires time, knowledge, high quality materials and, of course, the soul of the artist

1. Nature study and reference collection

Every painting begins with an idea, but to realize it requires an in-depth study of nature. Whether it's a landscape, still life or portrait, I carefully study the subject, its form, texture, lighting, and atmosphere

To achieve maximum accuracy and expressiveness, I collect a large number of reference photographs. These can be images taken specifically for the project or carefully selected images that convey the right mood and details

When it comes to portraiture, this stage becomes especially critical. I need to collect a large number of photos of the model at different angles, in different lighting, with good focus

If it is important to create a specific mood or emotion, I need clear photos of the desired angle and expression so that I can accurately reproduce it in my work

In some cases, in order to create the most accurate image or to gather

additional information and impressions, I suggest a personal meeting with the client. This may include not only a conversation, but also a sketching session or a photo shoot to gather live references

After gathering all the necessary information, I start sketching. This is not just a quick sketch, but a detailed elaboration of the composition, arrangement of elements, light and shadow accents. At this stage I look for the best solutions, experiment with the format and scale, so that the future picture is perfect

Coordination with the customer:

The sketch is an important stage of coordination. I submit it to the customer for approval to make sure that my vision meets his expectations. This avoids misunderstandings and costly rework at a later stage

Time:

It can take anywhere from a few days to a week to draw and finalize a sketch and get it approved, depending on the complexity and number of revisions

3. Materials and Preparation Canvas: The foundation for painting

After the sketch is approved, I proceed to the selection and preparation of all the necessary materials

Search and purchase of materials: Investment in quality

The quality of the painting directly depends on the quality of the materials. I use only proven, high-quality paints, brushes and varnishes. Purchasing materials takes time and resources - often you have to turn to specialized art stores to choose the best or organize a permanent offer. This includes the cost and processing time

Selection and preparation of canvas:

Linen canvas- The key to strength and density

* Custom approach: If your painting requires a non-standard canvas size or shape, I can’t always just buy a ready-made one. In such cases:

* Self-production: I need to buy materials for making a stretcher frame, linen canvas and tools for stretching. Then I stretch the canvas on the stretcher myself, which is a very responsible and demanding process that requires skill and precision

* Order in a workshop: As an alternative, I can order the production of a stretcher frame and stretching of the canvas in a specialized framing workshop. This saves time, but the cost of professional services increases

* Canvas gluing: Protective barrier

* Before applying the primer, the canvas must be covered with glue. This is the process of applying a special bonding compound that creates a barrier between the canvas fibers and subsequent layers of primer and paint. Gluing prevents the paint from penetrating the canvas fibers, protecting them from deterioration, and creates an evenly absorbent surface

* Time: Each layer of gluing must dry thoroughly before applying the next. This step already requires patience!

* Priming: The perfect surface for creativity

* After gluing, the priming stage follows. I use acrylic primer. It is a special compound that allows to create perfect adhesion for acrylic paints. The primer smooths the surface of the canvas, makes it less absorbent, provides brightness of colors and their even coverage. Several coats of primer are applied, each requiring complete drying before applying the next and light sanding for perfect smoothness.

4. The Magic of Color: The Process of Creating a Work of Art

Now that the base is ready, the fun part begins - painting!

> Underpainting: The base of composition and mood

* This is the first layer of color I apply to the canvas

The underpainting is the elaboration of the overall composition, the main color spots and light and shadow relations.  It sets the tone for the whole future painting, its mood and depth, being the substructure for everything that follows

* Time: Acrylic dries relatively quickly, but for reliability and uniformity, I let the undercoat dry well

> Working on large forms: Volume and color

* After the underpainting, I move on to working on large forms and volumes. At this stage I detail the main objects, work on light and shadow, and form a general color palette. This is the construction of the “skeleton” of the painting, its main masses

* Time: This stage can involve many layers, each of which needs enough time to dry

> Painstaking detail: The soul of the painting

* This is the most time-consuming and labor-intensive stage. Here I work on the smallest details, textures, subtle color transitions, light, highlights and reflexes. It is at this stage that the painting “comes to life”, acquires its uniqueness, depth and character

Every tiny detail is worked out by hand, layer by layer, stroke by stroke. This requires the utmost concentration, precision and, of course, a huge amount of time

* Time: This stage can take up to 70% of the total time spent on the painting, as it is the most delicate interaction with the material

4. Final touch: Protection and Durability

After the last stroke of paint has been applied, the painting is not yet finished

> Complete drying of the paint layer: Time is the best conservator

Polymerization and curing take considerably longer. Depending on the thickness of the layers, this can take from 2 to 4 weeks (and sometimes longer) in a well-ventilated room. Only when the paint is completely dry and hardened it is ready for the application of a protective varnish layer

> Applying the finishing varnish: Invisible Shield

* Once the paint is completely dry, I apply acrylic varnish to the painting. It creates a transparent protective layer. The varnish protects the paint layer from dust, moisture, dirt and, most importantly, from ultraviolet radiation, preventing the colors from fading. It also gives the painting the desired finish (matte, satin or glossy), unifying all the colors and giving the work a finished look. The varnish is applied in several thin layers, each of which requires thorough drying

* Time: After the last layer of varnish is applied, the painting must dry and cure completely (the process of polymerization of the varnish), which takes from a few days to 1-2 weeks, depending on the type of varnish and environmental conditions. Only then can the painting be safely packed and transported

5. Your Role: Care and Storage of the painting

Congratulations, now you know how much time and labor went into your painting! To keep it happy for you and future generations, it is important to take good care of it:

>  Storage and placement conditions:

* Avoid direct sunlight: UV light, despite the protective varnish, can damage the pigments over time. Place the painting so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight

* Stable temperature and humidity: Avoid sudden changes in temperature and high humidity (e.g. do not hang over a radiator, near an open window or in a bathroom). This can cause warping of the canvas and paint layer. Optimal conditions: 18-22°C and 40-60% humidity

* Insulation: Do not store paintings in damp cellars, attics or places with strong odors

> Cleaning and care:

* Dust: Use a soft, dry brush (such as a paint or art brush for dusting) or a clean, dry microfiber to remove dust from the painting surface. Move gently, without pressure

* NEVER use wet rags, water, soap or any chemical cleaners! This can irreversibly damage the paint and varnish layers

* Avoid touching: Avoid touching the surface of the painting with your fingers, as grease and dirt can leave marks

* Frame: The frame not only complements the painting aesthetically, but also provides additional protection against accidental damage to the edges

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As you can see, creating a painting is a complex, multi-step process that requires not only creative inspiration, but also in-depth knowledge of materials, their properties and technologies. Each step is important to create a lasting, quality work of art

Thank you for your understanding and support of art! Each of my paintings is a part of my soul and the result of painstaking labor, created especially for you!

With respect and love for creativity,

Oksana Krasova, Polymorphium Art