About
Casein is an ancient, water-soluble paint made from milk protein and slaked lime, thought to be one of the oldest paint mediums. Cave paintings dating back 125,000 years were created using milk-based paints, and artifacts from King Tutankhamen’s tomb, discovered in 1924, were also painted with casein. For thousands of years, casein’s simple production formula made it a popular medium for decoration. Artists like Andrea Mantegna (1431-1506) famously used this paint. Casein is valued for its ability to dry to a consistent finish, making it ideal for murals and easel paintings. It offers versatility, allowing for effects that mimic both oil paint and watercolor washes, while drying to a velvety matte finish.
During this five day workshop students will be instructed in the process by which this medium is prepared from milk; Through making a series of studies students will explore the technique of handling casein paint and the different ways this medium can be utilised.
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 do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 23 – 27 June 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
What materials do I need?
Students should all bring:
TBC
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 full-time students and Seniors/60+.
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 Harvard 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.
