GORDEN'S OIL PAINTING
Learn the magic of beautiful painting
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Make Retirement a Masterpiece: Dive into Oil Painting Adventures!
You Look at My Paintings and Think You Could Never Do That. I Need to Address That Directly.
I want to have an honest conversation with you about something.
If you have spent any time looking at the paintings on this website, there is a reasonable chance you have had a thought something like this: those are beautiful. But I could never paint anything like that.
And if that thought has crossed your mind, I want you to know two things.
First — I understand completely why you think that. The Prague cityscape, the mountain landscapes, the imagined moonlit world — these are the result of sixty years of accumulated seeing, decades of practice, and thousands of hours of work. Of course they look far away from where you are right now.
Second — and this is the important part — that comparison is not the right one to make.
My paintings are not the destination of my introductory course. They are evidence that a journey is possible. The destination of my course is something far more immediate and far more achievable: a landscape painting you are genuinely proud of.
And here is what I want you to understand about how a landscape painting is made — because it is not mysterious, and it is not a matter of talent. It is a structure.
Every landscape painting I make follows the same fundamental sequence. I begin with the most distant elements — the sky first, working down through the far background, the middle distance, and finally the foreground. Distance to nearness. Far to close. Background to foreground.
This sequence is not arbitrary. It follows the logic of how oil paint behaves, how depth is created on a flat surface, and how each layer of a painting informs the next. The sky sets the light source and the mood. The background shapes are painted simply, with less detail, because distance reduces contrast and detail. As you move toward the foreground, the shapes become larger, the edges sharper, the colors more saturated.
This is a learnable sequence. It has steps. The steps have a logic. And that logic, once understood, makes the process of building a landscape painting feel not like an act of mysterious creativity but like the careful, methodical construction of something beautiful — one layer at a time, from back to front.
I am a physician and a surgeon. I spent fifty years breaking complex procedures into learnable sequences and teaching them to residents who had never performed surgery before. The approach I bring to teaching painting is not so different. You do not learn microsurgery by watching a master and hoping inspiration strikes. You learn by understanding the sequence, practicing each step, and building confidence through repetition.
My introductory course will not make you paint like me. It will give you a clear, structured process — a sequence you can follow, understand, and build on — that will result in a landscape painting you are proud of.
That is the promise. Not my level of work. Yours. Done well. Done with confidence. Done in a way that makes you want to do it again.
My course begins July 25, 2026. Visit gordensoilpainting.com.
Gorden McMurry — The Painting Physician
Oil Painter·Landscape Painting Instructor·Ear Surgeon (Retired)
Kore Gallery, Louisville, Kentucky
gordensoilpainting.com·[email protected]
Set forth on your artistic adventure with personalized guidance designed for mature retired or soon-to-be-retired professionals passionate about diving into oil painting. Bringing a depth of painting experience, I provide a clear roadmap to overcome obstacles such as starting your painting adventure, choosing the right materials, and making the most of your creative time. Unearth the art of picking captivating subjects and develop your ability to truly see and appreciate their essence, crafting truly engaging compositions. Enjoy the thrill of creating exquisite landscape paintings as you transform your creative ambitions into reality and build a timeless legacy of artistry.
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Unlock Your Inner Artist: Transform Your Dreams into Stunning Oil Paintings!
Gorden McMurry, a seasoned oil painter with over 60 years of experience, is uniquely qualified to help retired and soon-to-be-retired professionals achieve their artistic aspirations. After a successful medical career, Gorden returned to his passion for painting, producing more than 100 beautiful pieces and showcasing them at KORE Art Gallery in Louisville, KY. His journey started as a Paint-By-Number novice while a medical intern in Southern California which led him to becoming a skilled artist as a result of mentoring with a professional artist in California for several months. As a result, he has sold numerous commissioned works and has gained the practical knowledge and insight necessary to guide you on your own creative path. Imagine the satisfaction of creating stunning oil paintings that reflect your vision. With Gorden's expertise, you can transform your desire to learn into confident expression. He understands the challenges of balancing a busy career with artistic pursuits and is dedicated to helping you navigate this fulfilling journey—step by step. Join Gorden on social media to access valuable tips, inspiration, and a supportive community of fellow aspiring artists. Your journey to painting beautiful oil masterpieces is just a click away—don't let it wait any longer!
"The Splendor of a Peaceful Oriental Garden"
"The Splendor of a Peaceful Oriental Garden" invites you into a serene and enchanting world, where the harmonious blend of nature and traditional design fosters tranquility and reflection. This masterpiece captures the essence of an oriental garden with its meticulously
arranged elements — from the gentle arcs of stone bridges and the soothing flow of koi-filled ponds to the lush greenery and vibrant fall colors that punctuate the landscape with color. Each brushstroke reflects the garden's peaceful ambiance, encouraging you to pause and savor the beauty of balance and serenity in nature. Through this painting, experience the unrivaled splendor and calm of a tranquil retreat.
"The Beauty of a Yukon Sunset"
"The Beauty of a Yukon Sunset" captures the majestic splendor of the northern wilderness as the sun dips below the horizon, setting the sky ablaze with hues of gold, pink, and deep purple. This painting conveys the serene yet powerful landscape of the Yukon, where towering mountains and expansive forests stand in silhouette against the vibrant evening sky. The tranquil waters of a nearby lake reflect the colorful sky, enhancing the sense of calm and wonder. Each element of the composition centers on the interplay of light and shadow, illustrating the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of a Yukon sunset.
"A Nostalgic Castle in France"
"Nostalgic Castle in France" transports you to aby gone era, where history and romance linger in the air. This enchanting p"ainting presents a magnificent French castle, nestled amidst mountains and lush greenery. The intricate architecture, characterized by elegant turrets and timeless stonework, speaks of noble heritage and storied past. Bathed in the soft light of a setting sun, the scene is imbued with a sense of nostalgia and serenity. This painting invites you to step back in time and experience the enduring charm of a historic French treasure.
"The Glorious Upper Falls of Yellowstone"
"The Glorious Upper Falls of Yellowstone" captures the awe-inspiring power and majestic beauty of one of nature's great wonders. This painting vividly portrays the Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River, cascading with immense force and grace over a rugged cliff edge. The shimmering waters are depicted with dynamic brushstrokes, creating a sense of movement and energy that contrasts with the serene surroundings. Towering pine forests and rocky landscapes frame the falls. This artwork invites you to marvel at the grandeur and untamed beauty of Yellowstone’s iconic landscape.
This "I am a beginning painter and had been working on a painting for some time when the balcony wall simply would not look right. I asked Gorden for advice. He looked at it and explained immediately what was missing — the wall needed to be shaded darker, and the ground in front of it needed to be lighter. Those two small changes gave the wall depth, and the depth brought the entire painting to life. My painting is finished and I am genuinely proud of it."
— Sue F., Louisville, Kentuckyis a Paragraph Font
Work With Me
Success Stories
What Past Clients Are Saying
"I am a beginning painter and had been working on a painting for some time when the balcony wall simply would not look right. I asked Gorden for advice. He looked at it and explained immediately what was missing — the wall needed to be shaded darker, and the ground in front of it needed to be lighter. Those two small changes gave the wall depth, and the depth brought the entire painting to life. My painting is finished and I am genuinely proud of it."
— Sue F., Louisville, Kentucky
Here are the steps leading to the finished painting,
"Morning Mists on the Snake River"
FAQS
"Starting a new artistic journey can feel daunting, especially if you worry about not having prior experience. My program is designed specifically for individuals like you who are eager to explore their creative side, regardless of previous experience. We start with foundational techniques that are easy to follow, ensuring that you build confidence with each brushstroke. You will receive step-by-step guidance and personalized feedback, tailored to help you grow your skills at your own pace. Remember, every great artist was once a beginner, and with dedication and practice, you'll be creating paintings that you are truly proud of in no time. Together, we’ll unlock your hidden potential and develop your unique artistic voice."
While my program does include enriching group sessions that foster a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, I also place a strong emphasis on providing personalized feedback tailored to your unique artistic path. Each participant receives individual critique and support tailored to their needs and goals, ensuring that personal development is never overlooked. For those who prefer an even more personalized approach, I offer opportunities for one-on-one coaching to focus intensely on your growth and artistic expression. My aim is to support your journey in a way that best suits your learning style, ensuring you have the guidance and confidence to create artwork you’ll cherish."
My program is structured to offer comprehensive, step-by-step guidance, ensuring that each moment spent is rich with learning and creative growth. From mastering fundamental techniques to expressing your unique artistic voice, I’ve carefully crafted an experience that accelerates your progress in a supportive environment.
Participants frequently find that the joy of discovering and developing their artistic potential far exceeds their initial expectations, offering a sense of fulfillment and creativity that enriches their lives. Furthermore, the skills and experiences gained through my program often become a lifelong source of joy and expression, making their investment well worthwhile. Your journey in art is not just about creating paintings, but about joining a community, exploring your creativity, and building something that lasts."
