Member Event
Cobra Water Mixable Oils: Understanding Color Characteristics!
Cobra Water Mixable Oils: Understanding Color Characteristics!
Colour is far more than hue. Every pigment has its own personality, from transparent colours that glow with light to opaque pigments that provide bold coverage and dramatic texture. Learning how these unique characteristics work together is one of the great joys of oil painting.
Join Seattle artist and Royal Talens North America Art Education Director Jeff Olson for the second installment of The Cobra Studio, an ongoing series exploring the timeless techniques and modern possibilities of Cobra Water-Mixable Artist Oils.
Through a series of engaging demonstrations, Jeff will reveal how these professional oil colours behave when mixed, layered, glazed, scumbled, and tinted. Discover how opacity and transparency shape colour relationships, why some pigments seem to glow while others command attention, and how thoughtful layering creates greater depth, atmosphere, and luminosity.
Whether you're new to oils or looking to deepen your understanding of professional colour, this workshop will give you practical insights and techniques that will transform the way you think about paint.
Materials
Cobra Water Mixable Oils: Titanium White, Ivory Black, Primary Yellow, Primary Cyan, Primary Magenta (Or whatever colours you want)
Princeton Aspen Series 6500 Oil Synthetic Brushes: Filbert 8, 10, or 12, Bright 8, 10, or 12, Flat 8, 10, or 12
Opus Paint & Peel Palettes: 12x18”
Opus Finest Palette Knives: #6
Buzz Canvas Panel: 16x20”
Pro Tapes® Artist's Tapes: 0.5x60 yd
2 water buckets (1 quart 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, as well as 25 years in the art materials industry. With both a BFA and an MFA in painting and drawing, his work bridges fine art, technical knowledge, and a deep curiosity about the materials artists use. 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 their tools. 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
Afficher tous les détails
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.