Description
- 22 - 25 January 2026
- 14 - 17 May 2026
- 11 - 14 June 2026
- 5 - 8 November 2026
- 10:30 am - 4:00 pm
This 4-day intensive icon painting workshop is designed for students of all abilities, no previous experience is required. The aim of the course is to help you understand the tradition of icon painting through studying masterpieces, and through their inspiration to create your own icon.
Over 4 days of intensive work, students will go through all stages of icon painting, which will be an excellent introduction and experience for using the egg tempera technique.
Stages of work include:
- Sketching and designing. Students can use images of icons provided as inspiration, or simply alter an original image slightly. Students are encouraged to be creative and listen to their instincts.
- Transfer of finished drawings onto a panel covered with layers of gesso. Panels are provided and ready for students to use, as it takes at least 2 days to prepare them. (It is possible to have additional tuition on making panels on a request).
- Redrawing with paint. Students will learn how to make paints using egg yolk and dry pigments.
- Once all surfaces are covered with enough layers of ground, we can start building shapes using lights. In icon painting, we don’t build shapes with shadows.
- Gilding – for students who would like to try Gilding. We would normally cover a small surface using a schlagmetal leaf, which is not a real gold leaf. It is an excellent method for beginners, as the gold leaf is extremely thin and difficult to work with. We will use oil gilding.
- Applying final lights and highlights. Finishing.
- It is recommended to wait at least a few weeks before varnishing the finished icon painted in egg tempera. Students are welcome to arrange a time and date to return and varnish their paintings.
Learn More About Icon
The Differences Between Russian and Coptic Icons
February 12, 2026
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Exploring the different expressions of the two traditions, and their shared purpose.
5 things you need to paint an Icon
January 23, 2026
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Learn more about what you need to begin your icon painting journey, and where to find it.
How to Become an Icon Painter
December 29, 2025
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Discover the materials you need, and ways you can explore your creativity to find connection through Iconography.
3 Essential Tips for Paintbrush Care in Icon Painting
September 19, 2025
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Looking after your paintbrushes will help extend their life – some simple, regular paintbrush care steps will save you money as you won’t need to
How to Make Egg Tempera in 4 Easy Steps
August 20, 2025
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What is egg tempera? Egg tempera paint is a permanent, fast-drying painting medium made using pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder such as egg yolk.
Learn About the Icon of Saint Mary of Egypt
April 13, 2023
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Discover the incredible spiritual journey of Saint Mary of Egypt and why she is a revered figure today.
Moira May Marjory Taylor-Wintersgill –
I attended a 5 day course in November-a complete beginner. It was amazing! Basia is so knowledgeable and talented and is a clear, kind, generous teacher. I found the process of making the icon very meditative and am delighted with the result. I will definitely continue with this art and hope to take further courses. I would urge anyone considering this course to take the plunge and gift yourself time to create your own icon…a truly wonderful, fulfilling experience.