This masterclass introduces students to traditional methods of extracting pure pigments from natural materials such as earth, rocks, roots, and berries. These practices are rooted in centuries-old alchemical processes and reflect a perennial spiritual philosophy at the heart of traditional art. The pigments themselves embody a deeper cosmology, echoing the principles of the Alchemical tradition.
Students will work with semi-precious minerals—malachite, azurite, cinnabar, and chrysocolla—as well as a variety of plants. Through this process, they will witness the near-miraculous transformation of raw materials into pure pigments ready to be turned into paint.
In the second part of the workshop, students will be introduced to traditional paint-making techniques. They will learn how to prepare a range of historical mediums, including: gum kordofan; egg tempera; casein; glue; and plant oils.
By the end of the course students will create and take home a set of 12 handmade watercolour half-pans, crafted from the pigments they have prepared.
Throughout the workshop, students will gain a deep understanding of how to make paint directly from nature, and how this process reveals the profound connection between creativity and the natural world.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and familiarity are welcome. This course will be especially useful to painters seeking a deeper understanding of methods and materials.
What days do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 13 – 17 April 2026, 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:
- A number 3 pointed sable brush
- A small sketchbook or notepad for doing samples of colours, and taking notes
- Optional:
- A tin for taking home your half-pans of paint, see example.
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
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.
