About
Join us for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn traditional icon painting techniques while creating an icon of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Virgin Mary is depicted in a white robe symbolizing purity, tied with a blue sash representing grace, holding a rosary, with vellow roses at her feet in the Grotto of Massabielle as she appeared to St. Bernadette.
Like the pilgrims who journey each year to Lourdes, the icon painting will offer students the opportunity to contemplate this image with a sense of renewal and hope.
Using the traditional egg tempera technique alongside the Russian dry‑brush method, you will create a piece that radiates serenity and spiritual grace. This approach uses minimal pigment on the brush and builds the image through fine, delicate layers. As these layers accumulate, a soft, luminous quality emerges, giving the icon its characteristic sense of ethereal light.
By the end of the session, you will have both a deeper understanding of this ancient spiritual art form and an icon created using traditional methods.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days/times do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 22 – 26 February 2027, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What should I bring to class?
Students should all bring:
- pointed round watercolour brushes (sable) in sizes 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4
- optional: you may find it useful to bring a size 10 round brush for the background
- a book of loose gold leaf for the whole background, or a book of 5 sheets for the halo only; the carat and colour is up to you, but be sure that you are purchasing loose and not transfer gold.
- a palette with wells
All other materials will be provided in the class, including pigment and an icon board.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Louisa Brouk is originally from Paris, France. She has always been interested in the traditional perspective, particularly its symbolic purpose and craftsmanship. After discovering the beauty of traditional art in multiple cultures, she became inspired and delved into their intricacies and symbols.
