About
Explore the working methods of master Dutch and Spanish painters of the 17th century, discovering their colour theory and how this is expressed through the drama of their light and shade and made vivid through the techniques they employed.
Through the classical practice of chiaroscuro and glazing techniques a rich array of secondary colours are created out of the dynamic union of darkness and light. Through the 17th century practice of applying the paint in fine layers of glaze, the colours glow like jewels within the drama of their shadows.
Within these techniques resides a profound alchemy whereby, through the dynamic union of darkness and light, colours reveal themselves through this dynamic interplay of light and shade.
The aim of this workshop is to offer students a grounding in the working methods of the ‘Old Masters’ and the processes they employed, through which they achieved their masterly paintings and extraordinary colours. This lost knowledge is more relevant today than ever; once understood, these techniques may then be incorporated into to all styles of painting, figurative and improvised painting.
In the first half of each day, students will work from an old master painting, carefully following the stages of underpainting, glazing and colour as in the original. During the afternoon students will work from an actual still-life, following the same principles of the morning study and interpreting them into a contemporary context.
This is a practical painting course, employing classical oil painting methods of 17th century masters. By the end of this course, students will have a good grounding in traditional painting practises. Once understood, these techniques may then be adapted to a wide variety of contemporary painting styles.
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, 15 – 19 March 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 are asked to bring:
- A flat oil painting palette, can be wood, plastic or paper
- Oil paint: yellow ochre, raw sienna, burnt sienna, raw umber, burnt umber, terre verte, ultramarine blue, cadmium red (light), cadmium lemon yellow, cadmium orange, alizarin crimson, vine or ivory black, titanium white, and zinc white.
- Brushes:
- A range of hog hair filbert brushes: suggested sizes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
- Pointed sable brushes: suggested sizes 1, 2 and 3.
- For recommendations on makes of brushes, please see your tutor’s advice here.
All other materials will be provided.
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.
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.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Dr. David Cranswick received his MA fine art degree from the Royal Academy of Art. In 1999 he received his PhD from HRH Prince of Wales at St James Palace for practical research into mediaeval and renaissance painting materials and techniques. From 1984 David served as personal apprentice to Cecil Collins until his death in 1989. In 1989 David was invited by Professor Keith Critchlow to run regular workshops to the MA and PhD students, where he continues to teach as senior tutor at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts. He teaches regularly in the UK and internationally. David is personal tutor to several Royalties and prominent figures. He has works in royal collections (including King Charles III) also prominent establishments in the UK and abroad. David is resident artist in Cowdray Castle. David has appeared in BBC television programmes and radio interviews. Articles published include art magazines and newspapers. He has exhibited internationally since 1979 and undertaken portrait commissions. In 2024 David received the Teaching Award from King Charles III for 35 years of dedicated teaching. Dr. Cranswick has written a book on desert pigments of AlUla. He is currently writing a book on traditional painting methods.
