Masterclass: Colour, Light & Technique in the Golden Age of Dutch and Spanish Still-Life Painting

About this course

The workshop examines how Dutch and Spanish painters used colour, light and shade to construct still-life paintings. Participants study classical oil painting methods, including underpainting, chiaroscuro and the application of fine layers of glaze to develop colour and tonal depth. Practical work alternates between following the stages of an Old Master painting and applying related principles to an actual still life. This connects historical study with contemporary interpretation, allowing participants to explore how traditional techniques can be adapted to different painting styles.

What you'll learn

• Apply stages of underpainting and glazing in a classical oil painting process.
• Use chiaroscuro to organise light, shade and tonal contrast.
• Develop secondary colours through layered glazing and the interaction of light and darkness.
• Interpret techniques observed in an Old Master painting within a contemporary still-life study.

Is this course right for you?

Listed as suitable for all levels, the workshop is centred on practical oil painting rather than purely theoretical study. Participants should be prepared to work through structured studies from an Old Master painting and then apply related methods to an actual still life.