Member Event
Glaze & Grit: Oil Techniques in Contemporary Portraiture with Steve Chmilar
Glaze & Grit: Oil Techniques in Contemporary Portraiture with Steve Chmilar
This demonstration will display the versatility of a wide selection of oil paint pigments by using them in a multi-layered portrait. Steve will use the newly available Opus Essential Oil Colours both transparently (glazing) and opaquely over top of a grisaille (monochrome) portrait. By using an already dry, pre-prepared piece, Steve will show how to use transparent and opaque pigments to their full potential. In addition to standard realistic portraiture, he will also demonstrate how to add unexpected colours to achieve a more contemporary look - all within the same portrait.
Materials
Opus Essential Oil Colours: Flake White Hue, Titanium White, Cadmium Yellow Light, Indian Yellow Transparent, Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Red Light, Quinacridone Violet, Prussian Blue, NEW COLOURS* Alizarin Crimson Deep, Aquamarine Blue, Cadmium Yellow Lemon, Cinnabar Yellow, Yellow Iron Oxide, Magnetite Genuine, Mixing Gold, Perylene Red, Pyrrole Red, Rose Madder Quinacridone, Thioindigo Violet.
Opus Legato Acrylic Brushes: Filbert 10, 8, 6, 2
Opus Essential Paper Palette 9x12”.
Williamsburg Cold Pressed Linseed Oil
Opus Finest Palette Knives: Type 6
Opus Virtual Demo Common Q&A - Click HERE
This event is for Opus Members — thank you for being part of the creative community!
Hosted by Opus Art Supplies & our Experience leader
Steve has been painting and drawing full-time since the success of his first gallery show in November 2011. “As a working artist whose main income comes from the sales of my original body of work, I hope to provide unique insight into the art teaching environment. I bring my experience with international galleries and art collectors to the local level to help those artists in my own backyard become more successful in their artistic pursuits. Fortunately, before spending any time on business, I have found that the main secret to success can be found through improving our art practices via technical knowledge and the continuous journey of self-discovery.Website: stevechmilar.com
Instagram: @stevechmilar
YouTube: @stevechmilar1215
Facebook: @SteveChmilarsPaintedWorld
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Opus Member Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register in advance?
Yes—most events require registration to reserve your spot. Free demos with limited space can fill up quickly, so we recommend signing up early.
What’s included in a paid vs free event?
Paid events may include hands-on instruction, materials, and exclusive product offers. The details will be listed on the event page.
Free events may include a short, informative session led by an artist—perfect for picking up techniques, learning about materials, and sparking inspiration. You’re welcome to paint along, but it’s not required.
Will I get a recording if I miss an online event?
No. These demos are live-only. If recorded, the footage is gifted to the artist and not shared publicly.
Can I attend an online event if I don’t live in BC?
Yes! Our online events are open to artists across Canada and beyond.
Where are events held?
We host events both in-store at select Opus locations and online via Zoom or other platforms. The location and format will always be clearly stated.
I registered but didn’t receive a confirmation email. What should I do?
Check your junk or spam folders first. If you’re still unsure, email Pamela Mark at pmark@opusartsupplies.com to confirm your registration.
What’s the difference between free and paid events?
Free events are short, demo-based sessions led by professional artists—great for inspiration and learning.
Paid events offer deeper, hands-on instruction with more time, materials, or exclusive access. They’re ideal for artists looking to grow their skills.
Some paid events are free or discounted for Artist and Creative Tier Members.
Is it okay to ask questions during the demo?
Absolutely. Use the community chat to ask demo-related questions. Our host will relay them to the artist as time allows.
When will I be let in from the Zoom waiting room?
We open the room right at the start time. Arrive a couple of minutes early to avoid delays.
How can I apply to be a demo artist?
We love connecting with artists who teach and inspire. Apply here to share your skills in an upcoming demo.