To the uninitiated eye, the alla prima approach looks like a dance of rapid-fire brushstrokes. Little wonder then, that most artists consider it an unattainable style of painting. Leave it to Robert Johnson to challenge that outlook. In this 114-minute video demonstration, Johnson presents an alla prima technique so pure and simplified that viewers are prompted to say, “Hey, I can do this, too!

Robert explains considerations for setting up a still life.
Johnson has a way of disarming would be painters’ qualms. In his gentle, easy-going teaching style, he demonstrates a start-to-finish oil painting of cut roses against a dark backdrop, explaining his actions as he progresses. Throughout the painting’s stages, Johnson emphasizes just a handful of dictums: observe carefully, make every stroke count and enjoy the process. That enjoyment comes through clearly in his own gorgeous work. Brushstroke-by-deliberate brushstroke, Johnson builds a timeless rendering of roses that inspires confident imitation.

Stroke-by-stroke depiction of painting process, including brushing in lines of placement, wiping out of positive shapes, making every stroke count, thickness vs. thinness of paint, avoid stylization, working out relationships and harmonies between colors, use of broken color, receding space, the use of neutral gray and much more.

He gives an explanation of Materials!
Canvas preparation with traditional rabbit-skin glue and lead priming—safely!
Explanation of color palette, including specific pigments and brands.
The use of Maroget medium and non-odorous thinners.

Robert shows why palette organization is essential for effective color mixing.