Member Event
Unlocking Creativity: The Story of Cobra Water-Mixable Oils with Jeff Olson
Unlocking Creativity: The Story of Cobra Water-Mixable Oils with Jeff Olson
Oil painting has captivated artists for centuries with its richness, depth, and luminous colour. But what if you could experience everything you love about oils without harsh solvents or overpowering fumes?
Join Seattle artist and Royal Talens North America Art Education Director Jeff Olson for an engaging live demo exploring the history, science, and creative possibilities of Cobra Water-Mixable Artist Oils. From early tempera grassa techniques to today’s solvent-free studios, this session reveals how modern innovation is reshaping the oil painting experience.
Through live demonstrations, Jeff will show how Cobra paints behave straight from the tube, when mixed with water, when blended with traditional oils, and when modified with mediums to change flow, transparency, texture, and drying characteristics. Along the way, he’ll tackle common myths about water-mixable oils and explain what makes them unique.
Discover how artists can achieve the buttery handling, luminous layering, and expressive brushwork of traditional oils while enjoying a cleaner, more approachable studio practice with simple soap-and-water cleanup. Whether you’re an experienced oil painter curious about solvent-free methods or completely new to oils, this workshop offers a fresh, inspiring take on one of painting’s most enduring mediums.
Materials
Cobra Artist Water Mixable Oils: Titanium White, Ivory Black, Primary Yellow, Primary Cyan, Primary Magenta
Princeton Aspen Series 6500 Oil Synthetic Brushes: Filbert no 8, 10, or 12, Bright no 8, 10, or 12, Flat no 8, 10, or 12
Opus Paint & Peel Palettes: 12x18”
Buzz Canvas Panel: 16x20”
Pro Tapes® Artist's Tapes : 0.5x60yd
2 water buckets (1qrt or larger)
Paint rags or paper towels
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
Jeff Olson is a Seattle-based artist, educator, and materials specialist whose career spans more than 30 years of studio practice and exhibition history, along with 25 years in the art materials industry. With both a BFA and MFA in painting and drawing, his work bridges fine art, technical knowledge, and a deep curiosity about the materials artists use to create. As Art Education Director for Royal Talens North America, Olson combines hands-on demonstration with insights into the history, composition, and working properties of artists’ materials. Known for his engaging and approachable teaching style, he helps artists of all experience levels better understand the creative potential of the tools they use. Whether in the studio or the classroom, Olson brings together artistic practice, material science, and a passion for creative exploration.Website: jeffolsonart.com
Instagram: @jeffolsonart
Facebook: @jeffolsonseatllepainter
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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.