Using multiple references images and digital image editing software, I develop my design ideas to create a compelling composition before I start the actual painting. This allows me to focus completely on color mixing to achieve the right combination of color, value and temperature to model forms, create depth and accurately render nuances of light and shadow. Illustrated below are the progressive stages I usually follow from start to finish to complete an oil painting. This process typically takes me about two weeks for a large work, less for a small work. I’ve tried Raw Umber from many different manufacturer’s and prefer using Old Holland’s Raw Umber for creating the underpainting.