This course offers an immersive experience in the rich and nuanced world of painting on small canvas, bridging tradition and contemporary art.

Mathieu Lemarié will guide you through a variety of techniques—patinas, glazes, textural effects, embellishments, and finishes—to imbue each artwork with character and individuality. The focus is less on replication and more on revelation: to bring forth a new presence, a new balance, by drawing inspiration from the composition and history of the canvas, much like a stage designer.

This approach, both sensitive and technical, invites you to explore the connection between intention and aesthetics, between craftsmanship and personal expression. This course is for those who wish to go beyond mere color application and create unique pieces that convey meaning and emotion.

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Experiment with decorative painting techniques. Patinas, glazes, textural effects, finishes, and embellishments will be explored through practical exercises.
• Develop an artistic and sensitive approach to design.
• Explore the creative possibilities of painting to develop a personal style.
• Integrate traditional techniques into a contemporary approach.
• Master techniques rooted in craftsmanship to create unique pieces that reflect current trends.
• Design and complete a decorative project from start to finish.

Mathieu Lemarié introduces participants to various decorative painting techniques on canvas and guides them in creating personalized projects, as well as in a group project.

Day 1: Introduction to Decorative Painting

Morning

• Visit and exploration of the grand salon of Palazzo Labia, where Tiepolo, in collaboration with Mengozzi Colonna, created an illusionistic decoration with a painted ceiling and a design that seamlessly integrates real doors and windows.

Afternoon

• Welcome to participants: introduction to Matthieu Lemarié and his program
• Introduction to decorative painting styles: historical overview, popular styles (trompe-l'œil, faux finishing, floral motifs, grotesques, etc.)
• Presentation of materials and tools: types of paints, brushes, varnishes, and substrates
• Basic practice: learning fundamental techniques, such as blending, glazing, and stenciling
• Preparation exercises: testing basic techniques on samples to master paint application

Day 2: Faux Finishing Techniques

Morning

• Faux finishing techniques: introduction to techniques for creating aged effects on surfaces, particularly using a rag roller
• Demonstration and practical exercises: creating faux finish effects on wood or plaster surfaces, testing different effects (aged, worn, dusty)

Afternoon

• Creating textures: using sponges and other tools
• Personal project: preparation and application of the first layers

Day 3: Trompe-l'œil and Perspective Techniques

Morning

• Introduction to trompe-l'œil: presentation of its history, perspective rules, and applications
• Practical exercise: learning the basics of perspective, drawing simple shapes and shading

Afternoon

• Advanced trompe-l'œil techniques: painting
• Creating 3D elements
• Practical project: starting to create a small trompe-l'œil painting

Day 4: Patterns and Ornamentation

Morning

• Pattern design: introduction to floral, geometric, and botanical patterns
• Stencil creation: making and using stencils for repetitive patterns

Afternoon

• Applying patterns: applying the patterns to canvases for Day 5 using stencils and ornamentation techniques

Day 5

Morning

• Begin painting with a few simplified colors

Afternoon

• Continued painting
• Course conclusion: feedback, discussion on applying the techniques
• Cleaning up the workshop

Matthieu Lemarié

The principle of illusion is at the heart of decorative art, and Matthieu Lemarié excels in this field. He practices painting in a wide variety of forms, encompassing both decorative arts and craft techniques: monumental frescoes, delicate illuminations, glazed ceramic tiles, painted canvases for the opera house, striking trompe-l'œil effects, and faithful reproductions for film. His unique expertise leads him to collaborate with prestigious clients such as renowned museums, famous directors, and leading institutions.

He contributes to the design of sets for numerous operas in iconic venues such as the Paris Opera, Versailles, and Rouen. His talents are also sought after by figures in the artistic world, such as Ariane Mnouchkine, Zingaro, and Cirque du Soleil, for whom he designs spectacular sets.

Film was his first creative outlet after graduating, where he participated in the creation of frescoes for the film "Vatel." Subsequently, he collaborated with directors such as Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Roman Polanski, Alain Chabat, Éric Rohmer, and Woody Allen, for whom he even painted a fake Picasso.

Recognized for his expertise in the decorative arts, Matthieu Lemarié also works in museum scenography and window display design. Since 2019, the design agency GGSV has been calling upon his services for various large-scale projects, including at the Villa Medici, where his artistry and craftsmanship continue to captivate audiences.

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Hands-on workshop activities
• Active participation and experimentation by participants are encouraged

• Group and individual progress monitoring, with regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills acquired
• Group feedback session
• Attendance sheet for each half-day session
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa