When we think about painting, two popular styles often come to mind—oil painting and watercolor. Both have been beloved by artists for centuries, and each brings its own unique charm to the canvas. But what really sets them apart?

And as casual art lovers or beginners, how do we know which one fits our style better? Let's take a closer look at how these two techniques differ in their process, expression, and emotional impact.

The foundation of oil painting

Oil painting is known for its richness and depth. It uses oil-based pigments, usually mixed with linseed oil, which gives the paint a thick, buttery texture. This slow-drying nature allows artists to work on a piece over days or even weeks, blending and layering with precision.

We often associate oil painting with classical artworks in museums—think of Van Gogh's swirling skies or Da Vinci's detailed portraits. The ability to build texture and adjust details over time makes oil a favorite for artists who love to take their time and experiment.

Watercolor: lightness and spontaneity

On the other hand, watercolor painting feels lighter and more fluid. Instead of oil, the pigments are mixed with water, creating a transparent effect. Watercolors dry quickly, which means we need to work with speed and confidence. The beauty of watercolor lies in its unpredictability—the way colors blend and flow on paper often leads to happy accidents that become part of the art.

Many artists use watercolor for landscapes, flowers, or moments filled with light. The technique captures emotion and atmosphere with a softness that's hard to achieve in other mediums.

Control vs freedom in technique

Here's where things get interesting. With oil, we have complete control. We can cover mistakes, add layer upon layer, and shape the work over time. It's very forgiving.

Watercolor, in contrast, requires a more mindful and flexible approach. Once a brushstroke is made, it's hard to undo. Instead of controlling everything, we learn to flow with the medium. It teaches us patience, trust, and how to embrace imperfections.

So, if we enjoy working slowly and making changes as we go, oil might be a better fit. But if we like to capture quick impressions or enjoy painting outdoors, watercolor offers a beautiful challenge.

Tools and surfaces: what we need

Oil painting typically needs canvas, oil paints, brushes, and solvents like turpentine or linseed oil. The setup can be a bit messy and requires good ventilation.

Watercolor is simpler. All we need is watercolor paper, paints, water, and a few brushes. It's easy to carry around, making it perfect for travel sketching or painting in the park.

For those of us starting out, watercolor may feel more beginner-friendly in terms of setup, while oil might be more rewarding for detailed or dramatic pieces.

The emotional tone they set

Each medium also tells a different emotional story. Oil paintings often feel bold, deep, and dramatic. The colors are rich, the texture is strong, and the mood can be intense.

Watercolors tend to feel lighter, more peaceful, and delicate. They bring out the beauty in simplicity and are perfect for capturing calm moments and fleeting light.

That's why artists sometimes choose their medium based on what they want to express. Are we painting a stormy sea or a quiet morning sunrise? The medium helps shape the mood.

Which one should we try?

There's no right answer—just personal preference. Some artists love both and switch between them depending on the project. Others find one that speaks to them more deeply.

The best way for us to decide? Try both. Explore how each feels in your hands. See which one matches your pace and personality. Whether we love the thick strokes of oil or the soft washes of watercolor, the joy is in the journey of creating.

Let's get inspired together

In the end, both oil and watercolor give us amazing ways to express ourselves. They may be different in technique, but they share one goal—helping us turn emotions and ideas into something we can see and feel.

So Lykkers, which one are you more curious to try—oil or watercolor? Or have you already discovered your favorite? Let's share our experiences and inspire each other to pick up that brush and start painting!