About
On this course, students will paint a copy of the Annunciation as depicted in a beautiful 13th Century Armenian Book of Gospels. Armenian manuscripts have a long and rich history, dating back fifteen centuries. These manuscripts are recognisable for their colour palette and its diversity of style.
The tutor will begin with an illustrated talk discussing illumination, the meaning of the image, and the symbolism found throughout (including colour, the figures, the floral forms and buildings and so on).
Students will then be guided through the intensive painting process including how to: prepare and burnish the Pergamenata paper; make watercolour pigments with natural minerals and gum Arabic; transfer the image to the paper; gilding with gold leaf; and painting.
To achieve the fine lines necessary for a beautiful painting, students will be given practice exercises for line work, and guidance on painting small faces, the hands, and vestments of the figures. Students will also be introduced to different gilding methods such gilding with bole and different sizes as well as the use of shell gold.
If you do not finish during the course, you should have the skills to continue painting on your own.
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 do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 17 – 21 November 2025, 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:
- 1 each x pointed round watercolour brushes, in sizes 2, 1, 0,00. Examples: L. Cornelissen and Son, Kolinsky Red Sable series 80A, Raphael 8404 Kolinsky sable, or Rosemary & Co Series 8.
- A book of 20 – 23.5 carat loose leaf gold (see example). Ensure you are purchasing ‘loose leaf gold’, and not ‘transfer gold’.
- A pan of shell gold (see example)
- 1 x palette with wells, so you can take home pigment that you make and continue working
- Optional: You may find it useful to bring a notebook and pen to take notes.
All other materials will be provided in the class.
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
Hanna Ward has an MA in Traditional Arts from the School and has completed a four year Diploma Icon and Wall Painting course with Aidan Hart. Hanna has also studied for many years with various masters from Russia, Greece, France, Romania, UK and Finland. Hanna regularly paints commission pieces for churches and private collectors. She also lectures and teaches in the UK and in Finland and is a visiting tutor at the Icon School of Bethlehem in Palestine.
