While possessing a masterpiece of worldwide acclaim instills a sense of newfound appreciation for art, there aren’t enough originals for the whole lot of us. But, surely none of us would like to be deprived of timeless and everlasting classic masterpieces for anything. 

Hence, the trend of reproduction was invented to ensure there’s enough for all the art aficionados who wish to hold in their hands the legacies of master artists. Also, art shouldn’t only be reserved for people with deep pockets but accessible for the rabble too. 

Even though the idea of reproduction is brilliant and meant to be an equalizer but can be a tedious one for the shoulder it falls upon as recreating the magic of a painting isn’t easy. If you’re also curious as to how reproductions are made, keep scrolling to uncover the process. 

History of Oil Painting Reproduction 

Before stepping any further into the world of oil painting reproduction, we must take a step back into history to clearly understand its roots and how it works. The first sightings of such a phenomenon coming to reality were observed sometime around the 16th century. Usually, master artists used to have assistants who were bound as apprentices to learn their craft and style which is how reproduction was first initiated.  

The procedure of first imitating the style of the master’s artwork was seen as a path to discovering one’s own art style and inclination. Since this phenomenon became famous, many prominent artists like Pablo Picasso followed suit. This activity has borne fruits and might we say very legendary ones. 

Leonardo Da Vinci was one such student who went through the process of reproduction under the master painter, Andrea Del Verrocchio. Da Vinci started working under Verrocchio as an apprentice and delving into the magnificence that was in his master’s hand. He’s known to have heavily influenced and contributed to the now masterpiece, The Baptism of Christ whose beauty flows beyond words. 

First Step of Reproduction: Observation and Research

The reproduction of a masterpiece is a herculean task and is most definitely a tough bone to crack so you’ve to really get into it. Before jumping into it, you must wait and study the painting deeply before you begin to replicate it. Studying art requires deep analysis of the artist’s brush movement and mindset which is affected by the prevalent scenario of the time as well as the life experiences the artist went through. 

 So, you have to become a companion of the artist for days to come—studying the movement of his brushstrokes intensely, color palettes the artist preferred, and which art movement swayed the artist’s work as weaver, prominently. Like if you’ve to recreate the legendary Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh which remains the most reproduced painting, you’ve to look at his other paintings as well to understand the style. Being a Post-Impressionist artist, he butchered the artistic norm and focused on individually and emotionally centered deposition of things just like the Starry Night isn’t a realistic section.

For example, your due study of his paintings will reveal that he was besotted with the impasto technique of artistry. This technique involves layering up the oil paints to create emphasis and the revered texture that made his paintings stand out. Moreover, an inspection of his other artworks will uncover a prominent use of shades of yellow smeared here and there.

Superior Artistic Tools 

To duplicate a genius’ work is no mortal feat so to accompany you on your journey, you do need some acquaintances. To create a superb replication, firstly, you need a canvas of superior quality with idyllic texture to hold the oil paints in tight for smooth painting. 

Next, you indulge yourself in top-notch oil paints of a smooth consistency so that neither painting over and over becomes an issue nor does excessive smudging hinder your artistic capacity. For this, you’ll have to scrounge for the right ingredients. Preferably, look for non-toxic paints that don’t harm your own health. Lastly, you’d need a plethora of brush sizes with both soft and hard bristles for ease of painting as well as to create different color manipulation.

The Final Step of Replication  

Once you’ve undergone the previous steps, comes the time to actually take up the tools and get to work. It’s always suggested to paint in a calm and serene environment where you’ll remain undisturbed. Now, many artists like to get done with sketching first if the painting contains a figurine or any complex depictions which is the best way to outline the focal point. 

If it’s a landscape of sorts, then most classic painters started from the bottom of the canvas and worked their way up. This gave the painting a structure, to begin with. In the case of landscapes, it’s always advisable to go towards the Plein air technique which will give you constant inspiration as well as let you capture the candid moments of nature.

The Bottom Line 

Reproduction of oil paintings has become rampantly famous as newer art players are hitting the town with their replication skills. But, not many understand the meticulous process one has to undergo to create an idyllic replication of a masterpiece like here https://www.1st-art-gallery.com/, right out of thin air. A keen eye to gauge the artist’s style goes a long way in distinguishing one from one’s competitors.