About
When painting a human figure in miniature painting, the face is often seen as the most challenging part. In this course we will study in detail the technique and process of painting a face in the Guler and Kangra style of Pahari painting. We will learn how to prepare different skin tones, shading specific areas, techniques for painting the hair, outlining, jewellery, and facial expression.
We will focus on the female face but will also look at the prototypical faces of Krishna and Radha as portrayed in the Guler Gita Govinda series of paintings.
We will be using handmade paper and squirrel-hair brushes from India and natural pigments that we will prepare in the class.
Key Information
Who is this workshop for?
All levels of ability and experience welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
How many people can attend?
14 people
What days/times do I attend?
Tuesday – Friday, 26 – 29 May 2026, 10:00 – 16:30
What materials do I need?
Students should bring the following to class:
- A selection of good quality round pointed sable brushes from sizes 00, 0, 1, 2, 4, 6. Suggested brands: Winsor & Newton Series 7, Da Vinci Maestro, Rosemary & Co. (At least a small and a medium size brush)
- A palette with wells to take home any colours you might have mixed.
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.
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.
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.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Dr Susana Marín is a practicing artist and researcher of Indian Pahari painting. A painter and musician since childhood, Susana first learned drawing and painting with her father and later at the Fine Arts University of Madrid. She also completed professional training in Western classical and early music, holding degrees from prestigious Schools of Music in Madrid, Warsaw, London, and Bloomington IN. She studied traditional geometry at the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in London where she also earned a PhD for her research into the living tradition of Pahari painting. Susana learned the art of miniature painting in India with masters of Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan.
