Egg Tempera Painting

About this course

Participants explore egg tempera, a fast-drying medium made from coloured pigments and an egg-yolk binder. The course covers sponging, skumbling, glazing and the gradual application of colour with brushes. Learners make paint from dry pigments and egg binder, then develop a composition layer by layer on a panel. Beginners can work from a selection of images, while experimentation with different methods is encouraged under guidance. The course also allows learners to develop their own approach to the medium as their work progresses.

What you'll learn

• Make egg-tempera paint using dry pigments and an egg binder
• Apply sponging, skumbling and glazing techniques
• Build a multi-layered composition on a panel
• Use brushes to develop colour and form progressively

Is this course right for you?

The course is listed for all levels and explicitly supports beginners, while also accommodating learners who want to develop existing painting skills. Participation involves guided experimentation and developing an individual composition.

• Beginners can choose from a selection of images to work from
• Learners with existing skills can use the course to develop their approach to egg tempera

Before you go

• Bring any pigments already owned and a pure gesso panel.
• Bring brushes, preferably size 8 or smaller, a watercolour palette, paper towels and a small hair dryer.
• Eggs are provided.
• Loaner palettes are available, and panels and pigments can be obtained from the tutor if needed.