Chasing Light with Oil Sticks: A Painter’s Affordable Journey

As an oil painter, I am always chasing reflective light wherever I find it.

R&F Oil Sticks R&F Oil Sticks - flexibility of being in a stock form but has the richness of oil paint.

Boar Bristle Brush set Boar Bristle Brush Set- captures the light I see on my painting adventures.

Portable French Easel French Easel - perfect for painting outside in the elements. 

Whether it’s morning sun spilling across old clapboards or the warm afternoon glow resting on a stone wall, light fascinates me. Each painting becomes a small journey of discovery not about reaching a destination, but about savoring the process, the texture, and the quiet moment when everything glows just right.

When I paint, I think of my tools almost as friends. Each brush, stencil, and pigment has its own task — and each one helps me translate what I see in my mind’s eye. I often use oil sticks to create broad, creamy passages of color that blend beautifully with traditional tube oils.

One of my favorites is R&F Pigment Sticks, which offer rich consistency and deeply saturated hues. They’re excellent for layering and mixing on the canvas. Another go-to brand is Shiva Paintstiks, especially for their range of greens — perfect for landscapes and natural light scenes.

If you’re on a tighter budget, don’t let that stop you. I’ve experimented with Haiya Oil Sticks, which are creamy, smooth, and surprisingly versatile for their price. They layer well and let you explore color without feeling limited.

The truth is, art doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. It’s about curiosity — the willingness to play, to explore, to see what a new tool can do. Whether I’m painting or working on textiles with oil sticks and stencils, I find the same joy: the light always finds its way through.



Affiliate Note:
Some links on this page may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them,at no additional cost to you. Thank you for helping me continue creating art and sharing these creative journeys. 🌿🎨


If you enjoyed this post, you can support my creative work on  Kofi com/savabunch. Every bit helps keep the brushes moving and the ideas flowing!

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