Through an array of demonstrations and inspirational images, a respected and successful painter reveals all his secrets for depicting light and mood, and bringing out the rich color of oils. Many artists don't realize exactly how to use oils to create colorful and expressive paintings. These pages show them the way, with practical advice on materials and equipment, painting techniques, mixing and harmonizing colors, and capturing landscapes, still lifes, flowers, gardens, interiors, and townscapes. Especially invaluable is the intimate glimpse into a professional's working methods on location: planning his composition, producing preliminary sketches, and following through every stage of development until a beautiful painting is done.