Painting Course in Florence
Where tradition becomes technique and mastery
A course rooted in the heritage of Italian painting — where classical techniques are studied, practiced, and reinterpreted.
Guided by expert artists, you will explore historical methods from drawing to tempera and oil painting, learning through direct practice inspired by the Old Masters.
The Course
Learning Through Tradition.
This course introduces painting through the study of classical techniques developed in Italy between the 14th and 17th centuries.
Working in an atelier setting, you will learn how painters approached composition, color, and material — building your skills step by step, from drawing foundations to layered painting techniques.
Through copying, observation, and guided practice, you will understand not only how these works were made, but why — developing both technical knowledge and artistic awareness.
The art behind the technique
Florence is the birthplace of some of the most important developments in Western painting.
From tempera on panel with gold backgrounds to the evolution of oil painting, artists of the Renaissance transformed painting into a structured and intellectual discipline.
Studying these techniques means entering a lineage of knowledge — where preparation, layering, and material understanding are essential.
Copying the Old Masters was historically the foundation of artistic training. It allowed artists to internalize proportion, composition, and light — building a visual language that could later evolve into personal expression.
In this course, this tradition continues — not as imitation, but as a method of learning through practice.
Course modules & skills
Each course is adapted to the participant’s level and duration, allowing for both foundational learning and deeper technical exploration.
M1 — Materials & Foundations
- Overview of traditional painting materials and techniques
- Understanding supports, pigments, and tools
- From conception to composition
M2 — Drawing & Preparation
- Developing structure through drawing
- Studying form, proportion, and composition
- Preparing surfaces and initial layouts
M3 — Color & Painting Techniques
- Use of coloured pencils and pastel techniques
- Introduction to tempera (water-based and oil-based)
- Oil painting techniques: glazing and layering
- Understanding color, light, and depth
M4 — Classical Practice & Application
- Copying Old Masters to understand technique and composition
- Introduction to 14th-century tempera on panel and gold background techniques
- Landscape oil painting from life
Beyond technique: the artisan mindset
Classical painting is built on discipline and observation.
It requires patience, repetition, and attention to detail — where each layer contributes to the final result.
Through this process, you learn to slow down, to construct rather than improvise, and to develop a deeper understanding of image-making.
It is not only about painting, but about learning how to see, interpret, and build an image with intention.
Who is this course for?
The Aspiring Artisan
For those curious about traditional painting techniques and eager to learn their foundations
The Maker
For creatives who want to understand painting beyond surface aesthetics
The Cultural Traveller
For those seeking an authentic, hands-on experience connected to Italian artistic heritage
What you will achieve
- A foundational understanding of traditional Italian painting techniques
- Hands-on experience with materials, tools, and processes
- Knowledge of tempera, oil painting, and classical methods
- Greater confidence in drawing and composition
- A deeper appreciation of painting as a discipline
Practical Information
- Location: Florence, Italy
- Language: Italian
- Format: One-to-one or small group sessions
- Materials: Provided on site (not included in course cost)
- Level: Suitable for beginners and experienced participants
- Duration: Minimum 5 days (flexible, extended options available)
- Dates: On request
- Price: On request
Start Your Journey as a 21st Century Artisan
Turn your creative passion into a tangible skills.
Immerse yourself in a unique learning mentored by master artisans.