Oil Painting: Rolling vs. Hard Edges with Helen Van Wyk

With the advent of the 17th century, the art of painting underwent a remarkable transformation. Previously confined to flat, two-dimensional representations, paintings began to exhibit a newfound depth and realism. Figures seemed to leap off the canvas, creating the illusion of space beyond the frame. This revolutionary change was attributed to the discovery of the "lost line" by 17th-century painters. By skillfully blending sharp, defined edges with soft, blurred ones, these artists achieved a harmonious balance that added significant dimension to their works. This technique not only enhanced the vividness of the scenes but also made them more lifelike and dynamic.
Helen cleverly uses the term "Founder" as a play on the word "found." Although the words have distinct meanings, in this context, "founder" aptly describes the 17th-century painters as both the discoverers and creators of the lost line technique. This innovative approach marked a pivotal moment in the history of art, forever changing how scenes were depicted and perceived.
Dive into the world of painting alongside Helen , a
legendary artist and instructor. Discover invaluable tips, techniques, and inspiration as Helen shares her wealth of knowledge. Whether you're a beginner seeking guidance or a seasoned artist looking to refine your existing skills, Helen's timeless wisdom and contagious enthusiasm will ignite your creativity and elevate your art to new heights.
Subscribe now and embark on an unforgettable
journey of artistic discovery with Helen.

[@louhautdavid6451]

Despite I come a generation after, I really appreciate Helen's approach. It's the perfect balance between the figurative and a subtle abstract. Even classical painters as Wermeer did it if you look at the details. Her show is full of good lessons.

[@ritabykhovsky4175]

Thank you for making me feel happy every time I see a video of Helen. I am 87 and started learning to paint 6 years ago. I am originally from Russia, so I never saw Helen teaching before. I love her way. Blessings.

[@susansouthern6704]

I've been painting for many years and never fail to learn from her videos every time.

[@LauranneJ679]

Thank you for posting these videos. I was never able to see her shows due to my location but I have bought all her books and videos that are available to me. I did some research and was blown away by just how many programmes that were recorded. I wish they could be made available, like Bob Ross, for everybody to enjoy for many years to come. This beautiful and talented person should never be forgotten.

[@forrest603]

I really miss Helen. I watched her programs when I was younger and I always *learned* something! Loved her personality and vibrance. She was one of a kind.

[@shannonpeak2790]

Whoever keeps uploading these new videos. I greatly appreciate. It. She is a brilliant teacher

[@augustasilvis297]

I have watched so many different ways of painting and I find your way of explaining is so unique from all the rest.So greatful that I found your video.Bless you

[@MykolasGilbert]

Back in the early 90's I became a fan of Helen VanWyk, and watched her show all the time! She was an incredible Artist and Teacher! I think I've got a number of her shows on video, only they're on a Beta format! I think I could watch Helen paint those wonderful strokes of her brush all day and still learn something. It's sad she's not around anymore, a nice person who was doubly talented as an inspirational Artist and Teacher.

[@SteveL2012]

Genius. I love the effect of lost edges. In watercolor I particularly love when color escapes an edge. It’s the coolest effect. Thank you Helen!

[@TrishBlassingame]

I learned so much from Helen. I distinctly remember the first time I watched this episode! So glad these shows were saved and we're able to see them again.

[@velvetbees]

Helen was an excellent teacher, and a good hearted person. She was also intelligent! She knew how to do something, or figured it out as she went.

[@SusanDuda]

Great teacher and painter. I have missed seeing her. Thanks for reposting.

[@amazinggrace5692]

Just discovered this wonderful woman. She drops things like me.

[@HelenVanWyk]

It means you're not afraid!

[@loisgopin6682]

I learn something every time I watch you. Thank you so much. Lois

[@loisgopin6682]

I have been painting over 70 years and you still amaze me.

[@craft-o-matic399]

Thank you dear Helen! Lisa

[@bj6116]

Thank you for posting these. I used to record Helen on VHS. Unfortunately they are now gone. I gained so much useful knowledge from her. ❤

[@brannonmcclure6970]

This woman is elegant. Her work is elegant too… She is art; so, art radiates from her.🧑‍🎨♾️👨‍🎓

[@elisafinch1325]

Thank you is good to see here...she was my teacher....Elisa Finch

[@anikindarji875]

Even the cameraman is indeed a level ahead from these nowadays ....alongside

[@marthacanady9441]

She’s a master for sure.

[@veronicadavila3180]

Thank you, that was very nice. Drawing and painting sculptures especially the Venus de Milo can be daunting and complicated. You did a marvelous job teacher.

[@reemara]

wow, those videos are a treasure.. i'm so happy to have run into your channel.. thank you..

[@HelenVanWyk]

Welcome and enjoy Helen's lessons. More to come.

[@missasinenomine]

How on earth you don't get oil paint all over your expensive clothes is a mystery that's never been revealed to me.

[@susankolpack7044]

Awesome lessons on line 👍

[@lindathaxton1994]

Excellent information - thank you - thank you - I do watercolor - this really helps me “see” better! Glad I found you!

[@alejandra4253]

Maravilloso !, Gracias gracias !

[@augustasilvis297]

Thank u so much for your time.i might know how to paint the pan of soup but I would like to see the another painting please.

[@paulashford4155]

So good!

[@davidmckayii752]

Great work. 😊😊 Thanks for explaining the lost line, it is like painting in 3d.

[@sonyaburke1605]

I'm so glad to see Helen again hooray

[@joannamccraney3148]

Awesome

[@windywednesday4166]

"We're always seeing the light, hallelujah. " 😂❤😊

[@roxanacastroj]

Thank You ❤

[@emryborge7027]

Thank you!❤

[@DakotaFord592]

Love these videos!!

[@lindathaxton1994]

Hard or soft edges (watercolor)

[@rhqstudio4107]

KZbin Gold

[@mahmoudelhennawy5505]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤

[@veral8979]

❤❤❤🙏

[@HelenVanWyk]

Hello. Portuguese CC subtitles have been added to this lesson. The hope is you will find them useful. Enjoy Helen's video lessons.

[@HelenVanWyk]

Olá. Legendas em português CC foram adicionadas a esta lição. A esperança é que você as ache úteis. Aproveite as videoaulas de Helen.

[@maisaabdulrazek5700]

❤

[@jasonmillers6941]

What is the long stick for?

[@HelenVanWyk]

It's called a mahl stick, also known as a mahlstick. Helen uses it to steady her brush hand while painting finer details. Here is a short video about it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmnbmqd8gqd2Zsksi=DKhfs2_g2bIueV_e

[@jasonmillers6941]

@@HelenVanWyk Thank you.

[@Nancy-tr5fi]

It is the classic way of keeping safe the way you already painted an area.

[@rafishafiro3024]

why does my white not cover the black like in the video

[@HelenVanWyk]

Great question. Helen used dark color thinned with turpentine to do the initial placements. This mix is very fast drying. Those crazy looking placement lines are nearly dry by the time she starts in with the oils. Give it a try. Thanks for your support, it is appreciated.

[@rafishafiro3024]

@@HelenVanWyk thanks to you

[@outtathyme5679]

She’s the Julia Child of art