The Wedding Painter

Oil painting of a wedding ceremony in Sweden.

Wedding Sketch #1 (The Ceremony). 20 x 30 cm, oil on linen.

This is an idea I’ve wanted to try for a while. Everyone knows that 150 years ago, painters had all the image-making gigs. Today those have all gone to photographers, but one thought I’ve often had at outdoor weddings is that it would be a great occasion for a plein air painter. They can be very picturesque events. Also, since often a great deal of effort goes into making memories of the event for the couple, what better way than non-fugitive paints on oil-primed linen which will last a thousand years while decorating their decedents’ walls?

Oil painting of a wedding in Sweden.

Wedding Sketch #2 (Afternoon Coffee). 25 x 35 cm, oil on linen.

I’m sure this has been done before, but at a couple of friends’ wedding this weekend I tried batting out some small sketches. It was interesting trying to set up and predict where everything would happen. Also, many of the situations are fleeting and the artist has to work fast (or tell people to pose).

I only got a couple of sketches done, but it was a fun experiment nonetheless. Plus it was the first time I’ve painted in a suit and tie.

The Wedding Painter

The Wedding Painter.

8 comments

  1. Thanks Chad, it was two brides though.

    Kyle, in those old photos of painters they always look so elegant, I’ve always wondered if it was just for the photo or if they really did always dress like that.

  2. Fantastic idea, and those are terrific. Man, you’d have to be fast. Love the suit, I think a fedora would complete the look.

  3. I am a portrait painter myself, but do not get a chance to paint from life that often…What a difference it makes…I absolutely love, love love your portrait pages!! You have such a wonderful ability…Beautiful work..I will have to follow you!

  4. I love that you talked about live painting for a wedding! I never would’ve imagined something like that could be done. My sister’s wedding is next year. I want to give her a special gift, and after reading your piece, I think this could be a great option. Who wouldn’t want their special moment captured like this! I really enjoyed your telling your experience of live painting at a wedding. I’ll be sure to keep this idea in mind for my sister’s wedding.

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