If you’re looking to elevate your artwork, I recommend exploring some of the best high-end oil paint sets like Paul Rubens, MEEDEN, Winsor & Newton, and MyArtscape. These brands offer vibrant, professional-grade pigments, smooth textures, and durable, long-lasting colors perfect for layering and detailed work. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned artist, these sets provide quality and versatility. Keep going to discover more about these exceptional options and how they can improve your masterpieces.
Key Takeaways
- High-end sets feature artist-grade pigments for vibrant, durable colors suitable for professional, long-lasting artworks.
- Premium textures and heavy-body formulations like RoseArt and MEEDEN enable textured, impasto techniques.
- Superior packaging, accessories, and large tube sizes support extensive projects and enhanced usability.
- These sets offer excellent lightfastness, quick drying times, and water resistance for long-term artwork preservation.
- They cater to a range of artists, from hobbyists to professionals, with versatile palettes and comprehensive starter kits.
Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set, 20 Colors, 50ml Tubes

If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality oil paint set suitable for artists of all skill levels, the Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set with 20 vibrant colors in 50ml tubes is an excellent choice. Made with high-quality pigments, these paints offer rich, vivid colors with excellent coverage and tinting strength. The smooth, creamy texture glides easily over surfaces like canvas and wood, allowing for seamless blending and expressive brushwork. Long-lasting and resistant to fading, they’re perfect for creating detailed landscapes or bold abstract pieces. Safe and non-toxic, this set is a reliable, professional-grade option that helps elevate your artistic projects.
Best For: artists of all skill levels seeking vibrant, high-quality oil paints for professional, hobby, or beginner projects.
Pros:
- Rich, vivid colors with excellent coverage and tinting strength
- Smooth, creamy texture for easy blending and expressive brushwork
- Long-lasting, fade-resistant pigments suitable for detailed and bold artworks
Cons:
- Not waterproof once dried, limiting outdoor use in wet conditions
- Requires 7-14 days to fully dry, which may delay finishing projects
- Larger 50ml tubes may be cumbersome for travel or quick touch-ups
MEEDEN Oil Painting Supplies Set for Artists

The MEEDEN Oil Painting Supplies Set for Artists stands out as an all-in-one solution perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike who want a thorough, high-quality starter kit. It includes everything you need to start creating: canvas, oil paints, brushes, an adjustable French easel, and drafting tools, all packaged securely in a gift box with foam protection. The premium French easel, made from durable German beechwood, is adjustable and portable, ensuring long-term use. The artist-grade paints, produced in 2022, come in vibrant 100 ml tubes, while the upgraded brush set features high-quality bristles. MEEDEN’s commitment to quality and support makes this set a smart investment for any artist.
Best For: both beginner and experienced artists seeking a comprehensive, high-quality oil painting starter set with durable equipment and vibrant paints.
Pros:
- All-in-one package includes essential supplies for immediate painting enjoyment
- Durable German beechwood easel with adjustable settings for versatile use
- High-quality artist-grade paints and handcrafted brushes for professional results
Cons:
- The complete set may be relatively expensive for casual hobbyists
- Limited color variety with only 7 colors, which might require additional purchases for advanced techniques
- The size of the easel and supplies may be bulky for travel or small studio spaces
Oil Paint Set, 40 Colors (18ml/0.6oz) with Storage Box for Artists and Hobbyists

Designed with both professional artists and passionate hobbyists in mind, the Oil Paint Set with 40 vibrant colors offers exceptional versatility and creative potential. It includes a broad spectrum of shades, from primary hues to metallic gold and silver, plus two extra white tubes for even more mixing options. Made with richly pigmented, durable materials, these paints resist fading over time, ensuring your artwork stays vibrant. The smooth, creamy texture glides effortlessly on canvas, making blending and detailed work a breeze. Packaged in an elegant storage box, it’s perfect for artists, students, or as a thoughtful gift for any creative soul.
Best For: artists, hobbyists, students, and teachers seeking a versatile, vibrant oil paint set for various creative projects and gift-giving.
Pros:
- Richly pigmented, durable colors that resist fading over time
- Includes 40 vibrant shades plus two extra white tubes for extensive mixing options
- Comes in an elegant storage box, ideal for gifting and organized storage
Cons:
- Slightly larger size may be less convenient for travel or quick projects
- Oil paints require proper ventilation and cleanup, which may be inconvenient for some users
- The set’s weight and size might be cumbersome for storage in limited space
MEEDEN Oil Paint Set for Canvas Painting

Artists seeking a reliable, high-quality oil paint set that delivers vibrant colors and smooth texture will appreciate the MEEDEN Oil Paint Set. This collection includes 24 non-toxic, richly pigmented paints in 22ml tubes, perfect for canvas work. The paints have a buttery consistency thanks to meticulous grinding and a formula that balances premium linseed oil and pigment powder, ensuring vivid color clarity even when mixing. Waterproof with a glossy finish, they’re ideal for indoor projects. Certified safe and environmentally friendly, these paints are suitable for artists of all levels. Plus, the set comes with brushes and a palette, making it both practical and inspiring for your creative journey.
Best For: artists of all skill levels seeking vibrant, high-quality oil paints for indoor canvas projects with safety and environmental considerations.
Pros:
- Richly pigmented with excellent color clarity and buttery consistency
- Non-toxic, waterproof, and environmentally friendly, safe for all ages
- Includes a complete set with brushes and palette, ideal for both beginners and experienced artists
Cons:
- Limited to indoor use due to waterproof and glossy finish
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic oil paint sets
- The volume per tube (22ml) may require careful handling for extensive projects
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Starter Set (10 Tubes)

If you’re starting out or working on large projects without breaking the bank, the Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Starter Set offers an excellent balance of quality and affordability. With 10 tubes of 37ml each, it provides vibrant, high-quality colors like Cadmium Yellow Pale Hue, French Ultramarine, and Burnt Sienna. The paints have strong coverage, good tinting strength, and are suitable for primed canvas, paper, or wood. Ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and large-scale work, this set delivers the traditional Winton range’s reliable performance at a moderate cost. Its durability, ease of use, and positive user feedback make it a smart choice for learning and experimenting.
Best For: beginner and hobbyist painters looking for affordable, high-quality oil paints suitable for large projects and learning purposes.
Pros:
- Vibrant colors with strong coverage and tinting strength
- Convenient 37ml tubes ideal for starting out and experimenting
- Good value for money with positive user feedback and durability
Cons:
- Smaller tube size may require frequent restocking for large projects
- Not waterproof or water-resistant, limiting outdoor use
- Does not contain the high pigment load of professional-grade oils
Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set,Multi,37 ml

The Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced painters seeking high-quality, versatile oil paints. It features nine rich, pigment-packed 37 ml tubes, including essential hues like cadmium yellow light, ultramarine blue, and burnt umber, perfect for a broad range of styles. The set comes with a handcrafted, primed wooden panel made from sustainably sourced birch, adding value and convenience. Known for its buttery texture, vibrant colors, and reliable drying time, Gamblin’s paints are praised for ease of mixing and excellent coverage. This set offers a durable, professional-grade palette suitable for indoor use and artistic exploration.
Best For: artists of all levels seeking high-quality, versatile oil paints with vibrant pigmentation and a durable, ready-to-use wooden panel.
Pros:
- Rich, pigment-packed colors with a buttery texture for smooth application
- Includes a primed, handcrafted wooden panel, adding value and convenience
- Reliable drying time of about 7 days with a matte, water-resistant finish
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to some other beginner sets
- Limited color range; some artists may want additional hues like phthalo blue or pink
- Contains cadmium pigments, which require careful handling due to toxicity
Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set (20 Colors x 50ml)

For serious painters who demand vibrant, long-lasting colors, the Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set with 20 large 50ml tubes stands out as an excellent choice. The set offers high-quality, pure pigments that provide excellent coverage, rich color, and strong tinting strength. Its creamy, smooth consistency blends easily, making detailed work and brushstrokes effortless. Made with non-toxic, high-purity linseed oil, these paints are safe indoors and resist fading over time. With a dry time of 7-14 days and water resistance once dry, they’re perfect for everything from landscapes to portraits. This set truly elevates your artistry with durable, vivid colors.
Best For: Artists of all levels seeking vibrant, durable, and easy-to-blend oil paints for detailed and long-lasting artwork.
Pros:
- High-purity, vibrant pigments ensure bright, long-lasting colors that resist fading.
- Creamy, smooth texture facilitates easy blending, detailed work, and brushstroke retention.
- Large 50ml tubes provide ample supply for extensive projects and professional use.
Cons:
- The 7-14 day drying time may be longer than some users prefer for quick projects.
- The set’s weight and size (4.66 pounds) make it less portable for on-the-go painting.
- The matte finish may not suit artists seeking a glossy or satin surface finish.
Castle Art Supplies 24 x 12ml Oil Paint Set

Artists seeking professional-quality oil paints will find the Castle Art Supplies 24 x 12ml Oil Paint Set an excellent choice. These vibrant, rich pigments feature a vegan-friendly formula with a buttery-smooth consistency that blends effortlessly. The high pigmentation ensures stunning, long-lasting colors, while the lightfast, fade-resistant properties keep your artwork vibrant over time. Designed for layering, the paints are fat-over-lean compatible, preventing cracking. The set includes expert tips and tutorials, making it perfect for artists of all levels. Packaged in an attractive box, it’s easy to store or gift, offering great value and confidence with a satisfaction guarantee.
Best For: artists of all levels seeking professional-quality, vibrant oil paints with excellent blending and long-lasting color.
Pros:
- Vibrant, rich pigments with high opacity for stunning coverage
- Vegan-friendly, non-toxic, and lightfast for long-term durability
- Comes with expert tips and tutorials to enhance skill development
Cons:
- Slightly heavier and bulkier packaging due to the set size
- Requires proper storage to prevent drying out once opened
- Limited to 24 colors, which may not cover all specific palette needs
RoseArt Premium Oil Paint Set, 24 Colors

If you’re seeking an affordable yet high-quality oil paint set that balances vibrant color and easy handling, the RoseArt Premium Oil Paint Set with 24 colors is a great choice. It features rich, pigmented, heavy-body paints suitable for beginners and professionals alike. The set includes versatile, blendable colors like Cadmium Red, Ultramarine Blue, and Burnt Sienna, all in convenient 0.4oz tubes. With a smooth, buttery texture, these paints offer excellent coverage, blending, and layering capabilities. They’re non-toxic, easy to use, and perfect for creating textures and detailed artwork on various surfaces. Plus, the included brushes and palette make for an all-in-one artistic experience.
Best For: artists of all skill levels seeking an affordable, high-quality oil paint set with vibrant colors and excellent blending capabilities.
Pros:
- Rich, pigmented, and smooth heavy-body paints suitable for layering and texture creation
- Non-toxic and easy to handle, making it safe for beginners and professionals alike
- Comes with brushes and a palette, providing an all-in-one artistic experience
Cons:
- Not water-resistant or waterproof, limiting outdoor or wet environment use
- Colors may appear more transparent when thinned, which could affect layering techniques
- The set is intended for indoor use only, restricting versatility for outdoor projects
Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusive Set, 1.25 Ounce (Pack of 9), 11 Ounce

The Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusive Set stands out as an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced painters seeking high-quality, versatile oil paints. It includes eight vibrant colors in 37ml tubes, packaged in a primed wooden box that doubles as a painting surface. The set features solvent-free gel, safflower oil medium, and a primed wooden panel, making it highly adaptable. Praised for its smooth texture and rich pigments, these paints dry in about 24 hours and blend easily. Many users find it excellent for detailed work and value its affordability, making it a reliable, all-in-one starter or supplement set.
Best For: artists and beginners seeking high-quality, versatile oil paints with a convenient starter set that includes essential mediums and a painting surface.
Pros:
- Praised for smooth texture, vibrant pigments, and excellent blending qualities
- Comes with a primed wooden box that doubles as a painting surface and storage
- Fast drying time of approximately 24 hours, suitable for detailed work and layering
Cons:
- Some paints may be oilier than others depending on pigment load
- Limited to eight colors, which may require additional supplies for complex palettes
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic student-grade sets
MEEDEN Artist Oil Paint Set (12 x 60ml Tubes)

For painters seeking reliable, high-quality oil paints in versatile shades, the MEEDEN Artist Oil Paint Set stands out as an excellent choice. It includes 12 vibrant colors in large 60ml tubes, featuring 37 shades with 6 exclusive new hues, perfect for a range of artistic styles. Crafted with premium pigments, these paints offer a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to blend, ensuring professional results. Their exceptional lightfastness guarantees colors remain vivid over time, making them ideal for gallery displays. Safe and non-toxic, this set suits artists of all levels, whether working in studios or at home. It’s a dependable, versatile option for elevating your artwork.
Best For: artists of all skill levels seeking a reliable, high-quality oil paint set with vibrant, versatile colors suitable for various techniques and styles.
Pros:
- Includes 37 rich shades with 6 exclusive new colors for a broad palette.
- Crafted with premium pigments for smooth, creamy texture and easy blending.
- Excellent lightfastness ensures colors stay vibrant over time, ideal for display and collection.
Cons:
- The large 60ml tubes may be more than some artists need for small projects.
- The set is limited to 12 colors, which might require additional palettes for more complex works.
- As a premium product, it may be priced higher than basic or beginner sets.
MyArtscape Oil Paint Set (12 Tubes, 21ml)

Artists seeking vibrant, professional-quality oil paints will appreciate the MyArtscape Oil Paint Set, which offers 12 richly pigmented tubes of 21ml each. The colors are vivid and long-lasting, thanks to premium pigments that guarantee excellent lightfastness and fade resistance over time. With a thick, creamy consistency, these heavy body paints are perfect for detailed work, impasto techniques, and full coverage. Their glossy finish blends seamlessly, allowing for smooth shifts and polished results. Made with non-toxic, safety-certified pigments, this set combines durability, safety, and versatility. Plus, it includes essential tools like brushes and linseed oil, making it a complete choice for serious artists.
Best For: professional artists and serious hobbyists seeking vibrant, durable, and versatile oil paints for detailed and impasto techniques.
Pros:
- Highly pigmented with vivid, long-lasting colors and excellent lightfastness
- Thick, creamy consistency ideal for detailed work and full coverage
- Includes essential tools like brushes and linseed oil for a complete painting experience
Cons:
- Tubes may be heavy and less portable for plein air painting
- The set’s price may be higher compared to basic or student-grade oil paints
- Limited color variety with only 12 shades, which might require additional color mixing
MyArtscape Oil Paint Set (12 x 12ml Tubes)

If you’re seeking a versatile oil paint set that delivers professional results without breaking the bank, the MyArtscape Oil Paint Set (12 x 12ml Tubes) is an excellent choice. This set offers 12 high-pigment, lightfast tubes ideal for artists of all levels. The thick, buttery consistency allows for textured brushwork and a glossy finish, perfect for techniques like impasto and wet-on-wet. The wide color range includes essential hues like Titanium White, Cadmium Red, and Phthalo Green, ensuring versatility. Made to meet safety standards, it’s non-toxic and suitable for indoor use. Overall, this set provides quality paints that support both hobbyists and professionals seeking durable, vibrant artwork.
Best For: both amateur and professional artists seeking a versatile, high-quality oil paint set for various techniques and surfaces.
Pros:
- Rich, high-pigment, lightfast colors for vibrant, durable artwork
- Thick, buttery consistency ideal for textured brushwork and effects like impasto
- Meets safety standards (ASTM D-4236, EN71-3), non-toxic and suitable for indoor use
Cons:
- Not water-resistant or waterproof once dried
- Limited to indoor use; not suitable for outdoor or environmental conditions
- No additional accessories included in the set
Portrait Palette by ZenART – Professional Oil Paint Set (8 x 1.7 fl oz Tubes)

The Portrait Palette by ZenART is an excellent choice for painters seeking a professional-grade oil set that emphasizes realism and figurative work. It offers eight earthy, Old Masters-inspired colors plus Ultramarine Blue, perfect for blending and creating lifelike skin tones. The large 1.7 fl oz tubes are highly pigmented, lightfast, vegan, and cruelty-free, ensuring vibrant, safe colors. The creamy, buttery consistency means no extra mediums are needed, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals. Users praise its excellent coverage, smooth blending, and eco-friendly composition. Plus, the reusable box makes it a thoughtful gift for artists dedicated to quality and sustainability.
Best For: artists seeking a high-quality, realistic oil paint set suitable for beginners, students, hobbyists, and professional painters focused on figurative and skin-tone work.
Pros:
- Highly pigmented, vibrant, and long-lasting with excellent coverage
- Creamy, buttery consistency that blends effortlessly without the need for additional mediums
- Eco-friendly, non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free, making it safe for daily use and environmentally conscious artists
Cons:
- Limited to set-only packaging, making it difficult to replace or purchase individual colors
- Whites are incompatible across ZenART palettes, which may require additional white pigments for certain projects
- Some users may find the earthy color palette limiting for more diverse or abstract styles
Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour (Titanium White)

For those seeking a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional oil paints, Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour in Titanium White is an excellent choice. Made from modified linseed and safflower oils, it mimics the feel and performance of standard oils while allowing clean-up with just water. This high-opacity white offers a satin finish and blends seamlessly with other oil colors. Its non-toxic, ASTM D4236 safety standard makes it perfect for indoor use, studios, or shared spaces. Lightweight and easy to use, it’s ideal for various painting styles, from plein air to detailed studio work, without the harsh fumes or solvents.
Best For: artists seeking a non-toxic, water-soluble oil paint that offers traditional oil painting qualities with easy cleanup and safety for indoor and shared spaces.
Pros:
- Easy to clean with water and soap, reducing the need for hazardous solvents.
- Mimics the texture and blending capabilities of traditional oil paints with a satin finish.
- Safe, non-toxic, and conforms to ASTM D4236 standards, ideal for studios, schools, and home use.
Cons:
- Can arrive dried out or with packaging issues, requiring careful handling or replacement.
- Slightly limited drying time compared to traditional oils, which may affect certain techniques.
- May have a higher price point compared to some traditional or student-grade oil paints.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a High-End Oil Paint Set for Artists

When selecting a high-end oil paint set, I focus on pigment quality and purity to guarantee vibrant, lasting colors. I also consider the variety of shades and how well the paints work with different mediums, along with packaging for easy handling. These factors help me choose a set that meets my artistic needs and ensures durability over time.
Pigment Quality and Purity
Choosing high-end oil paints hinges considerably on pigment quality and purity, as these factors directly influence the vibrancy and durability of your artwork. High-quality paints use artist-grade pigments that are highly concentrated, ensuring colors remain true and vibrant over time. The purity of pigments impacts lightfastness, preventing colors from fading, and allows for richer, more intense hues. Pure pigments contain minimal fillers or extenders, which enhances coverage, opacity, and overall color strength. Additionally, the particle size of pigments affects the paint’s texture and application; finer particles create smoother, more consistent strokes and better mixing. High-purity pigments often mean a higher pigment load per tube, resulting in more economical use and deeper, more luminous colors. Prioritizing pigment quality and purity guarantees your work maintains its brilliance and longevity.
Color Range Variety
A broad color range in a high-end oil paint set is essential for artists aiming to create nuanced shades and achieve tonal harmony. With a diverse palette that includes primary, secondary, and earth tones, I have more flexibility when mixing colors and discovering unique combinations. Sets that feature both vibrant hues and muted shades let me explore different styles, from realistic to abstract, with greater artistic freedom. High-quality pigments ensure consistent color payoff and longevity across a wide variety of shades. Additionally, specialized colors like metallics or iridescents expand creative possibilities, allowing me to add detailed effects and textures. Having an extensive color range truly elevates my work, making it easier to capture subtle transitions and complex visual effects.
Medium Compatibility Ease
Ensuring that oil paints are compatible with various mediums is essential for achieving the desired drying times, textures, and overall effects. When selecting a high-end set, I look for paints that can be easily thinned, glazed, or built up with mediums like linseed oil, alkyds, or quick-drying agents without sacrificing color integrity or adhesion. It’s important that the formulation supports both traditional techniques and modern approaches, allowing seamless mixing with different mediums. I also check if the paints retain their consistency and color fidelity when mixed, ensuring predictable results during application. Ideally, the set’s paints are specifically formulated to work well with various mediums, reducing issues like separation, cracking, or uneven drying. This compatibility makes my workflow more flexible and predictable.
Drying and Longevity
When selecting high-end oil paints, understanding their drying times and long-term durability is essential for achieving professional results. Typically, these paints dry within 7 to 14 days, but the full curing process can take 6 to 12 months, providing maximum resistance and stability. Lightfastness and pigment stability are also critical; professional-grade paints with high lightfastness ratings prevent fading over time. The drying oil choice—linseed, safflower, or tung—affects not only drying speed but also the flexibility and crack resistance of your artwork in the long run. Proper storage and ideal environmental conditions, like suitable humidity and temperature, further extend the paint’s shelf life and ensure the longevity of your finished masterpiece. These factors are crucial for creating durable, vibrant art.
Packaging and Portability
Choosing the right packaging for high-end oil paint sets is essential for artists who need durability and ease of use on the go. Premium sets typically feature sturdy, leak-proof tubes or bottles that keep paints secure and prevent spills during transport. Many are designed with lightweight, compact packaging or protective cases, making it simple to carry supplies without sacrificing quality or accessibility. Ergonomic caps or screw tops help prevent messes and allow precise paint dispensing. Organized storage boxes or palettes are common, keeping colors separated, protected, and ready for spontaneous work. Additionally, eco-friendly materials are often used, ensuring the packaging withstands rough handling and travel, so your paints stay fresh and intact wherever your creativity takes you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do High-End Oil Paints Differ in Quality From Standard Sets?
High-end oil paints differ from standard sets mainly in pigment quality and formulation. They use richer, more vibrant pigments with higher pigment-to-binder ratios, resulting in better color depth and longevity. I’ve noticed they blend more smoothly and maintain their brilliance over time. Plus, their consistent quality means I can trust each stroke will be true to my vision, making my artwork truly stand out.
What Storage Solutions Best Preserve High-End Oil Paints?
Storing your high-end oil paints securely is vital for longevity. I recommend airtight airtight containers or sealed glass jars to keep paints fresh and prevent drying out. Store them in a cool, consistent climate away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Regularly check lids for tightness, and consider using paint-specific storage racks for organization. Proper preservation protects your precious paints, ensuring your masterpieces remain vibrant and ready whenever inspiration strikes.
Are These Sets Suitable for Beginners or Only Professional Artists?
These high-end oil paint sets are suitable for both beginners and professional artists. I’ve found that they provide excellent pigmentation and blending, which benefits anyone looking to improve their skills or create professional-quality art. If you’re just starting out, the quality can help you learn techniques faster. For seasoned artists, they offer the richness and durability needed for top-tier masterpieces. So, no matter your level, these sets can elevate your work.
How Long Do Premium Oil Paints Typically Last Once Opened?
Premium oil paints typically last quite a while once opened, often between 1 to 2 years, if stored properly. I make sure to tightly seal the lids, keep the paints in a cool, dark place, and avoid contamination. Proper storage prolongs their lifespan, preserves their vibrant colors, and maintains their consistency. Regularly checking for any signs of drying or spoilage helps me ensure my high-end paints stay fresh and ready for my next masterpiece.
Can High-End Oil Paints Be Used for Mixed Media Art Projects?
Yes, I absolutely use high-end oil paints for mixed media projects. Their rich pigmentation and smooth consistency make them ideal for layering, glazing, and combining with other mediums like ink, watercolor, or collage elements. I find that top-tier oils blend seamlessly and enhance the depth of my work. Plus, their durability guarantees my mixed media pieces stay vibrant and intact over time, making them a versatile choice.
Conclusion
Sometimes, the perfect paint set finds us when we least expect it, just like how a masterpiece comes together. Whether you’re drawn to tradition or innovation, choosing the right high-end oil paints can unlock your true artistic potential. Trust your instincts, and remember, the right tools often appear when you’re ready to create something extraordinary. After all, every great artist’s journey begins with a stroke of coincidence and a dash of passion.