WORKSHOP
Oil Painting Basics
Fran Failla
All Levels
$100
Saturday
September 26, 2026
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Discover the timeless art of oil painting in this inspiring, hands-on workshop designed to spark creativity and build confidence. Participants will explore the rich tradition of oil painting while becoming familiar with the essential materials and techniques that bring a painting to life. Through guided instruction, students will learn the language of the medium, experiment with brushes, canvases, and professional painting tools, and discover the expressive possibilities of mixing vibrant colors. As they develop their skills, each participant will create a unique original painting, gaining a deeper appreciation for the beauty, versatility, and creative process of working with oils. Whether you are picking up a paintbrush for the first time or looking to refine your artistic practice, this workshop offers a rewarding journey into one of the world's most enduring art forms.
Location: Beach Art Center: 1515 Bay Palm Blvd Indian Rocks Beach
Meet your Instructor
Fran Failla
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Fran began painting at an early age. Given the opportunity in elementary school to take up oil painting, she quickly showed a special aptitude for the medium. Her teacher recognized this and encouraged her mother to nurture her talent. Her mother wasted no time purchasing oil paints, canvas and easel for her to use. With this she began to paint in earnest and went on to win several awards and competitions during her early school years.
In high school and college, Fran continued to study art and art history. Oil painting was her passion, providing the greatest versatility and color palette for her. It allowed her to communicate in the rich and provocative way that only oils can render.
In college, she found a multitude of accomplished and well-known master artists to study under. She excelled in still-life images. Fran also attended the renowned Art Students League in New York for many years, again studying with several modern-day masters. During that time, she won their prestigious "Red Dot" award more than once.
In 2018, she moved from her native New York City to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area in Florida. Following the mantra to constantly learn and grow, she sought out new artistic venues to further her skills. She chose to attend the Dunedin Fine Arts Center in Dunedin, FL and study under master artist, Markissia Touliatos. She has also formed working affiliations with the Beach Art Center in Indian Rocks Beach, FL, the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg, FL and TESA (The Exhibiting Society of Artists) to name a few. Recently, she became a 2024 Creative Pinellas "Emerging Artist" Grant recipient and also won the Halo Fellowship Award in 2025.
