Description

Before the invention of the camera……………….

the only pictures of the world were made by artists. As painting techniques developed throughout the Renaissance, artists painted exquisitely beautiful renderings of their world. They discovered techniques to create the illusion of real substance onto the canvas.

After the revolution of modern art, many of the techniques were discarded and artists no longer painted in the “old ways”. The techniques were removed from art school curriculums and much was lost or thought to be out of date.

There is a modern Renaissance occurring today, as so many people are wanting to learn these special techniques. Step back in time to discover the painting systems used in the Renaissance then apply them to your contemporary art practice now.

In the course we will re-examin the old techniques from the early Renaissance through to Courbet in the 19th Century. We will look closely at artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian and Caravagio to unpick their seamless and familiar facade and look beyond the mastery to the mechanics behind the image.

You will learn about the under-painting systems through set exercises using mostly still life as subject matter. The exercises are designed to help you understand the structure and techniques whether you are an abstract or figurative painter. You will also develop skills using transparent glazing colours and how to build up rich lusterous colour.  You will develop an appreciation of the archival and material properties of the paint and linen. Old Holland paints are the recommended paints used during this course.

Finally you will develop your own subject matter and integrate what you have learned into your own art practice. The intention of the course is to respond in a contemporary way to these ancient techniques.