Service Description

We’re delighted to introduce this 4-week Master Copy Oil Painting Course based on Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer. Throughout the course, you’ll create your own master copy while learning classical oil painting techniques used by the Old Masters to achieve luminous skin tones, subtle transitions, and atmospheric light. Working step by step, we’ll explore the traditional painting process — from drawing and grisaille underpainting to layered colour and glazing techniques — building towards a refined finished painting. The course encourages slow observation and careful paint handling while developing a deeper understanding of how classical portrait paintings were constructed. Who’s It For? Ideal for beginners and amateur artists wanting to strengthen their understanding of classical oil painting. Whether you’re new to portrait painting or looking to improve your control of values, colour, and edges, this course offers a clear and supportive approach. What You’ll Learn: ✨ Classical Oil Painting Techniques 🎨 Grisaille Underpainting 💡 Light & Value Structure 🎭 Painting Skin Tones & Fabric 🖌️ Edges & Soft Transitions ✨ Glazing & Luminous Colour Techniques We’ll Cover: 🎨 Drawing & composition transfer ⚪ Grisaille underpainting to establish form and value 🖌️ Blocking in colour using classical methods ✨ Building luminous skin tones through layered paint 🎨 Soft edges and atmospheric transitions 🖌️ Glazing techniques for depth and richness ✨ Painting reflective highlights and subtle fabric textures By the end of the course, you’ll complete a refined master copy while gaining a deeper understanding of classical portrait painting techniques and traditional oil painting methods. Please note: the original painting is in the public domain. Reference material used during the course is provided for educational purposes only. What’s Included: ✔️ 30 × 40 cm Linen Canvas ✔️ All essential painting materials* *Please bring your own oil brushes and apron. Flats, filberts, and a couple of fine rounds are recommended. Please visit our blog for paint brush recommendations or get in touch after your booking! 📍 Location: The Five Villages Hall, Station Rd, Backford, Chester, CH1 6NT 📅 When: Wednesday mornings, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Please note that occasional gaps in the schedule may occur when the hall is hired. ✨ Spaces are limited — early booking is advised. Have a question? Contact Dan directly — we’re always happy to help.