This course offers an immersion into the rich and nuanced world of canvas painting, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary art.

Mathieu Lemarié guides you through a variety of techniques—patinas, glazes, textural effects, ornamentation, and finishes—to restore character and uniqueness to each work. It is less about reproduction and more about revelation: bringing out a new presence, a new balance, by drawing on 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. A course for those who wish to go beyond simple coloring and create unique pieces that convey meaning and emotion.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Experiment with decorative painting techniques. Patinas, glazes, textural effects, finishes, and ornamentation will be explored through hands-on exercises
• Develop an artistic and sensitive approach to decoration
• Explore the creative possibilities of painting to develop a personal signature
• Integrate traditional craftsmanship into a contemporary approach
• Master craft-based techniques to create unique pieces in line with current trends
• Design and execute a decorative project from start to finish

Mathieu Lemarié introduces participants to various decorative painting techniques on small canvases and guides them through the creation of personalized projects as well as a group project.

Day 1: Introduction to Decorative Painting

Morning

• Tour and exploration of the grand salon of Palazzo Labia, where Tiepolo, in collaboration with Mengozzi Colonna, created an illusionist decoration featuring fictional architecture with a painted sky and the integration of real doors and windows into the decor.

Afternoon

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

Day 2: Patina Techniques

Morning

• Patina techniques: introduction to patinas for creating an aged effect on surfaces, particularly using a stippling brush
• Demonstration and hands-on exercises: creating patina effects on wood or plaster surfaces, testing different effects (aged, worn, dusty)

Afternoon

• Creating textures: using sponges and other tools
• Personal project: preparing and applying the first coats

Day 3: Trompe-l’œil and Perspective Techniques

Morning

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

Afternoon

• Advanced trompe-l’œil techniques: painting elements in relief
• Practical project: beginning work on a small trompe-l’œil

Day 4: Patterns and Ornamentation

Morning

• Pattern Design: Introduction to Floral, Geometric, and Botanical Patterns
• Creating stencils: making and using stencils for repeating patterns

Afternoon

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

Day 5

Morning

• Beginning of painting with a few simplified tones

Afternoon

• Continuation of painting
• Conclusion of the workshop: feedback session, discussion on applying the techniques
• Tidying up the studio

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Supply of materials
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop-based work
• Active participation and experimentation by participants are encouraged

• Group and personalized progress tracking, regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Group presentation
• Attendance sheet for each half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa