This course offers an immersive experience in the rich and nuanced world of painting on 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: Painting in an Upright Position

Morning

• Introduction to stippling techniques and drawing in an upright position, using chalk and charcoal. Begin painting with a few simplified colors

Afternoon

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

• 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