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

Matthieu Lemarié

The principle of illusion lies at the heart of decorative art, and Matthieu Lemarié excels in this field. He practices painting in a wide variety of forms, spanning both the decorative arts and fine crafts: monumental frescoes, delicate illuminations, glazed ceramic tiles, canvases painted for the Opera, striking trompe-l’œil works, and faithful reproductions for the cinema. His unique expertise has led him to collaborate with prestigious clients such as renowned museums, famous directors, and leading institutions.

He contributed to the design of sets for numerous operas in iconic venues such as the Paris Opera, Versailles, and Rouen. His talents were also sought after by leading figures in the arts scene, including Ariane Mnouchkine, Zingaro, and Cirque du Soleil, for whom he designed spectacular sets.

Cinema was his first creative outlet upon graduating, where he helped create murals for the film “Vatel.” He subsequently 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 display design. Since 2019, the design agency GGSV has called upon him for various large-scale projects, notably at the Villa Medici, where his art and craftsmanship continue to fascinate.

• 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