Mirage or illusion of an ephemeral world, the stage set allows to situate a place or an action, the time of an opera or a play. Since the 19th century, it has been considered an essential element, inseparable from the show. Matthieu Lemarié proposes to explore a range of techniques that he uses in his practice.

At the end of the training, the trainee will be able to:

Recognize the right tools to use according to the techniques
Make samples with different techniques
Perform patina techniques
Create a trompe-l'oeil on a flat surface
Paint standing up

Matthieu Lemarié introduces participants to the various techniques of decorative painting for the stage, whether theater or opera, and supports them in the realization of personalized projects as well as in a collective project.

Day 1: Introduction to decorative painting

Morning

Welcome of participants: presentation of 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 supports

Afternoon

Basic practice: learning fundamental gestures, such as gradients, glazes, stencils
Preparation exercises: testing basic techniques on samples to master the application of paint

Day 2: Patina techniques

Morning

Patina techniques: introduction to patinas to give an aged effect to surfaces, particularly with a poaching brush
Demonstration and practical exercises: creating patina effects on wood or plaster surfaces, testing different effects (aged, worn, dusty)

Afternoon

Texture creation: use of sponges and other tools
Personal project: choice of a small object to patina, preparation and application of the first layers

Day 3: Trompe-l’œil and Perspective Techniques

Morning

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

Afternoon

Advanced trompe-l’œil techniques: painting elements in relief (fake frames, stones, moldings).

Practical project: beginning to make a small trompe-l’œil on a board or panel.

Day 4: Patterns and Ornamentation

Morning

Pattern design: introduction to floral, geometric and plant patterns.
Stencil creation: making and using stencils for repeating patterns.

Afternoon

Making patterns: applying patterns on canvases for day 5 using stencils and ornamentation techniques.

Day 5: Standing painting

Morning

Presentation of broqueting techniques and standing drawing, with stencil and charcoal. And start of painting with some simplified tones.

Afternoon

Continuation of standing painting. Unbroqueting then cutting so that everyone can leave with their sample.
Conclusion of the training: feedback, discussion on the application of the techniques.

The principle of illusion is at the heart of the art of decor, and Matthieu Lemarié excels in this field. He practices painting in very varied forms, relating to both decorative arts and crafts: monumental frescoes, delicate illuminations, enameled ceramic tiles, painted canvases for the Opera, striking trompe-l'oeil, or even faithful reproductions for the cinema. His unique know-how leads him to collaborate with prestigious clients such as renowned museums, famous directors, and leading institutions.

He contributes to the development of the sets of many operas in emblematic places such as the Paris Opera, Versailles or Rouen. His talents are also sought after by figures of the artistic scene such as Ariane Mnouchkine, Zingaro or the Cirque du Soleil, for whom he designs spectacular sets.

Cinema was his first playground 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 notably painted a fake Picasso.

Recognized for his expertise in the arts and crafts, Matthieu Lemarié also works in museum scenography and window design. Since 2019, the GGSV design agency has called on him for various large-scale projects, notably at the Villa Medici, where his art and know-how continue to fascinate

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

• Collective and personalized monitoring of work, regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Collective restitution
• Sign-in sheet per half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa