BLOG

All about art
Art styles
Artists
Bedroom
Famous paintings
Home decor
Living room
Office

Why oil painting is so popular?

Introduction: The Timeless Allure of Oil Painting

From Renaissance masterpieces to modern-day galleries, oil painting has captivated art lovers for centuries with its richness, vibrancy, and sophistication. Unlike other mediums, oil paintings do not just decorate a space—they elevate it, carrying in centuries of history and a promise of longevity. However, what is the cause of their enormous popularity, and why have they remained the gold standard for both collectors and decorators?
NINE TAIL FOX from $930.54
NINE TAIL FOX from $930.54
NINE TAIL FOX from $930.54+
NINE TAIL FOX from $930.54
size up to 3P 114"x261" (each 114"x87")
NINE TAIL FOX from $930.54
frame option
NINE TAIL FOX from $930.54
free worldwide shipping
1/2

A Brief History of Oil Painting

When Did Oil Painting Become Popular?

Oil painting first gained prominence in 15th-century Europe, with such artists as Jan van Eyck pioneering the use of linseed oil as a binder. During the Renaissance, oil replaced tempera as the preferred medium thanks to its depth, flexibility, and durability.

By the 16th and 17th centuries, oil painting was dominant across Europe. The inimitable examples were  masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt. This was when oil painting was most popular historically, setting standards that still shape art today.

FLAMINGOS from $304.67
FLAMINGOS from $304.67
FLAMINGOS from $304.67+
FLAMINGOS from $304.67
size up to 114"x114"
FLAMINGOS from $304.67
frame option
FLAMINGOS from $304.67
free worldwide shipping
FLAMINGOS from $304.67
1/2
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310+
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310
size up to 114"x87"
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310
frame option
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310
free worldwide shipping
FISH WHIRLPOOL from $310
1/2

Why Oil Painting Is So Popular

1. Vibrant Colours

  • Oil paints contain high pigment levels, producing richer and more vivid colours than acrylics or watercolours.

  • Their slow drying time allows artists to create glazes and layers that shimmer with luminosity.

  • Result: colours that seem alive, dynamic, and timeless.

2. Durability and Longevity

  • Oil paintings are known to last for centuries without losing vibrancy.

  • Compared to acrylic and watercolour, they resist fading and remain visually striking.

  • Many Renaissance oils still look remarkably fresh today, proving their lasting quality.

3. Versatility in Techniques

Oil painting is beloved by artists because of its adaptability:

  • Application methods: brushes, palette knives, rags, or even hands.

  • Brush variety: from red sable for fine detail to synthetic brushes for bold strokes.

  • Supports: canvas, wood panels, or board.

  • Fat-over-lean layering: ensures structural integrity and prevents flaking.

4. Historical and Cultural Significance

  • Associated with prestige and high culture since the Renaissance.

  • Featured in museums, galleries, and private collections worldwide.

  • Continues to inspire modern abstract artists while holding its classical prestige.

5. Cultural and Social Appeal

  • Owning an oil painting shows refinement and taste.

  • In interior design, it acts as a statement piece, adding elegance to any space.

  • For collectors, oils hold financial and cultural value as prized investments.

GONDOLA from $310
GONDOLA from $310
GONDOLA from $310+
GONDOLA from $310
size up to 114"x87"
GONDOLA from $310
frame option
GONDOLA from $310
free worldwide shipping
GONDOLA from $310
1/2

Table: Comparing Oil Painting with Acrylic and Watercolour

Feature

Oil Painting

Acrylic Painting

Watercolour Painting

Colour Vibrancy

Rich, luminous, deep

Bright but flatter

Light, transparent

Drying Time

Slow (hours to months)

Very fast (minutes to hours)

Fast (minutes)

Longevity

Centuries without fading

50–70 years with proper care

More fragile, prone to fading

Techniques

Glazing, impasto, detailed blending

Layering, mixed media, textures

Washes, transparency, light effects

Prestige

High cultural and historical significance

Modern, versatile, accessible

Delicate, expressive

TrendGallery.art & Oil Painting Offerings

TrendGallery successfully keeps this tradition with hand-painted oil artworks, each created by a skilled artist who blends modern vision with timeless techniques.

Featured Oil Paintings:

  • NINE TAIL FOX – from $930.54: Vibrant abstract oil painting with bold, dynamic strokes.

  • FLAMINGOS – from $304.67: Wildlife-inspired piece, colourful and textured.

  • FISH WHIRLPOOL – from $310: Marine-themed abstraction with swirling energy.

  • GONDOLA – from $310: Romantic impressionist work evoking Venetian charm.

  • YOUR VIBE – from $495.45: Modern abstract composition full of energy and movement.

All works are customisable in size, colour palette, and framing—allowing clients to commission unique oil paintings tailored to their interiors.

YOUR VIBE from $495.45
Why oil painting is so popular? slider2-image-1
YOUR VIBE from $495.45+
Why oil painting is so popular? slider2-image-2
size up to 114"x87"
Why oil painting is so popular? slider2-image-3
frame option
Why oil painting is so popular? slider2-image-4
free worldwide shipping
Why oil painting is so popular? slider2-image-5
1/2
INFINITY REMIX from $340
INFINITY REMIX from $340
INFINITY REMIX from $340+
INFINITY REMIX from $340
size up to 76"x114"
INFINITY REMIX from $340
frame option
INFINITY REMIX from $340
free worldwide shipping
INFINITY REMIX from $340
INFINITY REMIX from $340
1/2

Applying Oil Paintings in Home Décor

Living Rooms

  • Large-scale oil abstracts make focal points above sofas or fireplaces.

  • Marine or landscape oils add tranquillity and sophistication.

Bedrooms

  • Soft-toned oils create a serene and restful environment.

  • Paired with natural materials such as wood, linen, and stone they make a cohesive look.

Offices & Studies

  • Abstract or figurative oils convey focus, taste, and creativity.

  • Excellent backdrop for virtual meetings or client spaces.

INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
size up to 114"x87"
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
frame option
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
free worldwide shipping
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
INDIAN WOMAN from $310.28
1/2

Elevate Your Space with Oil Paintings

Inspired by the timeless allure of oil painting? At TrendGallery, explore handcrafted oil artworks that bring vibrancy, sophistication, and cultural heritage into your home.

👉 Start your collection →

HOW TO MATCH A PAINTING TO YOUR SPACE

Why is oil painting so popular for home décor?
Oil paintings combine rich colour, texture, and prestige, making them ideal statement pieces. They level up any room decor, suit multiple interior styles, and last for generations.
When did oil painting first become popular?
Oil painting became popular in 15th-century Europe, especially during the Renaissance, and remained the dominant art form across Europe for centuries.
How do oil paintings differ from acrylic or watercolour?
Oil: Rich, slow-drying, highly durable. Acrylic: Quick-drying, versatile, modern. Watercolour: Transparent, delicate, less durable. Each has unique strengths, but oils remain the most prestigious.
Where can I buy high-quality oil paintings?
You can purchase museum-quality, handcrafted oil paintings at TrendGallery.art. Their collection spans abstracts, figuratives, marine themes, and custom commissions.
Can I customize oil paintings to match my home’s style?
Yes. TrendGallery offers custom sizing, colour palettes, and framing so your oil painting perfectly complements your home décor.