oil paint on glass

[veng]

Hello I have just received a commission where the painting will be on a sheet of plexi or regular glass.
I have never used this before to paint on but I have seen people use acrylic, so I’m wondering what the best way to paint with oils would be on glass and to seal the finished work??

[George O'Hanlon]

There is a history of oil panting on glass, especially in Poland during the past few centuries. I am not as familiar with the technique, but it should provide a stable and good surface to paint on, assuming you can overcome some issues with surface tension.

[bjr001]

Painting on glass is commonly referred to as Matte Painting. This has been used in movies practically since the beginning of the movie industry to create locations that would be too expensive to travel too or create. I don’t know if this craft is done today considering how digital has taken over.

This youtube video gives a little history and shows artists working with traditional artist paints in creating their matte paintings. That’s very interesting info that painting on glass has been around that long, thanks. I only knew of it from the movie industry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8bdTmU8F0s

[veng]

what would you recommend Geroge in getting good surface tension for the paint.

[George O'Hanlon]

Surface tension is usually not a problem when painting with oils on glass, but it is with water-based paints. The surface of the glass can be lightly sand-blasted, if it is an issue, but it usually is not necessary.