CHRISTOPHER VIDAL
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Artist Christopher Vidal  - Blog

Welcome to my blog. The aim of this blog is to share with you some of my experiences related to my artworks, what inspires me and also how it is done. As an artist I am also constantly learning as this is an ongoing process. I also learn from my students when I am teaching in the class. Sharing what I know with others is also very satisfying. This is how we grow and improve. 
I've been teaching art for a while now, and I must say that from this I learned a lot. This helps me to identify what each individual needs in order to become a better painter. Painting is not an easy task especially landscape painting. One needs to have the inspiration to paint a tree or a mountain and it is not a question of just wanting to paint something. I choose to paint something because there was an element that motivated me to do so ...that inspired me. It could be the game of light and shadows or simply the warm colors of a late afternoon. It is sometimes very difficult to translate the colors that nature shows us using paint on a canvas. This challenge could be also a way to motivate you to paint a scenery. 
Most important is that you do not expect that every painting that you paint is going to be a masterpiece. You shouldn't be afraid that your final product is not what you expected in the first place. An unsuccessful painting should be the teaching ground for a better one that follows. This is how we learn. We learn from our own mistakes and from things that didn't work out as we wanted them but with an effort we try to make them better the next time. 
So if you want to become a better painter then you have to practice and paint regularly. This is the only way how you can improve your techniques, discover ones of your own, learn your colors etc. It is all about brush mileage. The tutor is there to help you find your way, shows you the basics and how to use your tools in order for you to be able to develop yourself. 
Looking forward to share with you my knowledge.

Tranquil Waters: A Journey Through Oil Painting and Nature

6/2/2025

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I want to share my latest oil painting, "Tranquil Waters," which I recently completed using the indirect method of painting. This piece draws its inspiration directly from my camping trips, capturing the serene moments of solitude by the river.

The indirect method, also known as the layered approach, involves building up the painting in stages. I began with a detailed underpainting in monochromatic tones to establish the composition and values. Gradually, I added layers of glaze, each one deepening the colour and enhancing the light effects, giving the painting its rich texture and depth. This technique allowed me to capture the subtle play of light on the water and the warmth of the campfire, bringing to life the peaceful ambiance of a morning by the river.

"Tranquil Waters" is not just a painting; it's a reflection of my experiences in nature, where time slows down, and the world becomes a canvas of tranquillity. I hope this piece resonates with viewers, taking them on a visual journey to the calm riverside, much like my own camping escapes.
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Exploring and Painting in the Alpine Region of Australia

24/1/2025

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A few weeks ago, I spent several days travelling through the breathtaking alpine region of Australia. We arrived at a beautiful property near the Snowy River, where we camped and enjoyed some much-needed relaxation. The weather was pleasant, though the nights were notably cold, adding a crispness to the experience.

As always, I kept my eyes open for the perfect opportunity to capture the scenery in a painting. When I arrive at a new location, I don’t immediately start painting the first view I come across. Instead, I like to immerse myself in the environment—observing, taking it all in, and waiting for the moment or scene that truly resonates with me. What inspires me most is the interplay of light, particularly the way it transforms the landscape as the day progresses.

On this trip, I found an ideal vantage point next to the river. From there, I could see a distant mountain bathed in the warm, golden light of the late afternoon, with cool shadows filling the foreground. The scene had all the elements that make a painting captivating: a striking contrast between light and dark, as well as the harmony of cool and warm colours. Fortunately, the weather was kind, allowing me to follow through with my plan to paint en plein air.

When painting outdoors, I prefer to keep my setup simple and efficient. For this trip, I brought along my trusty pochade box, which is compact yet versatile. It features a small glass palette and can store up to two wet canvases—perfect for painting on location. My colour palette remains consistent for such outings: a double primary palette, consisting of both cool and warm versions of each primary colour. This approach gives me the flexibility to mix a broad range of colours and achieve the nuances I seek in my work.
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Painting outdoors is always a rewarding experience. It allows me to connect deeply with the landscape, capturing not just its visual beauty but also the atmosphere and emotions of the moment.
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The Other Art Fair - Sydney 3-6 Oct 24

15/9/2024

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I am excited to announce that I will be showcasing my latest works at The Other Art Fair in Sydney! to be held from October 3 - 6th at White Bay Cruise Terminal.

This event brings together over 100 talented independent artists in an unforgettable art experience.

I'll be displaying my work including new body of work, featuring landscape paintings and other subjects, all pieces reflecting my artistic journey.

I can't wait to see some familiar faces and meet new friends at the fair. Thank you, as always, for your incredible support!

Check out more about the fair here: https://www.theotherartfair.com/sydney/
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Capturing a Sunset at Mt Little Station

21/8/2024

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I recently completed a painting inspired by a trip to the Flinders Ranges and Arkaroola almost a year ago. After a long two-day drive, we arrived at Mt Little Station just before dusk. As we set up camp, I snapped a quick photo of the sun setting behind one of the farmhouses. Although the photo wasn’t perfect, it captured a special memory that I wanted to bring to life in this painting.

The artwork is 35 by 45 cm on linen board. I began by sketching the main shapes with burnt umber, followed by a coloured underpainting focusing on subdued middle tones. I chose a portrait orientation to emphasize the sky, the central element of the scene. However, I soon realized that the sky in the original photo was almost empty, so I decided to add more clouds for drama and interest. 
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As I painted, I used natural pigments and Oleogel to add texture to the ground, finishing the piece with a palette knife. The key takeaway from this work is that light’s colour and direction influence everything in a landscape.

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The Doyles Art Prize - Finalist

16/6/2024

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I am excited to announce that my artwork has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Doyles Art Awards, in the figurative section! 

The painting that earned this recognition addresses the increasing problem of homelessness, an issue that affects countless individuals and communities. Through this piece, I aim to shed light on the struggles and resilience of those experiencing homelessness.

Inspiration for this painting came from observing the everyday lives of people living on the streets. Each person has a story, a past filled with hopes, dreams, and circumstances that led them to where they are now. By capturing their reality in my art, I hope to evoke empathy and encourage a deeper understanding of their plight.
Homelessness is not just a statistic; it's a human experience. My painting aims to portray the dignity, strength, and humanity of those who often go unseen and unheard. 

Exhibition starts on the 27th June 2024 until 7th July 2024.
Information about the exhibition can be found on The Doyles Award website
https://thedoylesaward.com.au
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    As an artist I want to share with you my experiences and what is behind my artwork. Every artwork is an expression of the inner self. It is driven by experience. 

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ABN: 99673806422
  • Home
  • The Artist
    • About my work
    • Media/Publications
  • PAINTINGS
    • Paintings for Sale >
      • Landscapes
      • Plein Air
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    • Commissions
    • SOLD Paintings
  • Tuition
    • Online Mentorship
    • Workshops & Demos
    • Plein Air Painting
    • Oil Painting Course
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