PORTRAIT PAINTING WITH GLAZES WITH JULIAN MITCHELL - 10TH MARCH 2026
Discover the luminous beauty of traditional portraiture by exploring the time-honoured technique of grisaille underpainting and transparent glazes. This method, used by many of the great artists of the past, builds depth and subtlety of colour through careful layering.
In this one-day workshop, you will use modern materials to recreate the effect. Each stage will be explained and demonstrated in detail — from establishing initial proportions, through the monochrome underpainting, to the final glaze and finishing touches. With step-by-step guidance and plenty of individual support, you will develop your own painting over the course of the day and leave with a completed portrait.
What to Expect
A morning demonstration (10:00–10:30) introducing the grisaille underpainting method.
Step-by-step guidance as you develop your own portrait from the ground up.
A second demonstration at 2:00 pm focusing on glazing techniques and finishing touches.
Time throughout the day to practice, paint, and receive individual feedback.
By the end of the session, you will take home a finished portrait.
Practical Details
Date & Time: 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
Skill level: Suitable for all levels — from beginners keen to learn the method to experienced painters looking to refine their technique.
Materials: All materials and lunch will be supplied. Just bring an apron or wear old clothes.
For a very special experience, enjoy a night or three at The Bell in Ticehurst. If you would like to bring a partner who doesn’t want to do a course, there are plenty of great things to do locally – a perfect staycation to explore the delights of the Kent/Sussex countryside or our favourite arty places locally. Accommodation is subject to availability so please BOOK DIRECT with The Bell - by calling 01580 200300 or booking on their website. Please let them know you are attending a course.
Discover the luminous beauty of traditional portraiture by exploring the time-honoured technique of grisaille underpainting and transparent glazes. This method, used by many of the great artists of the past, builds depth and subtlety of colour through careful layering.
In this one-day workshop, you will use modern materials to recreate the effect. Each stage will be explained and demonstrated in detail — from establishing initial proportions, through the monochrome underpainting, to the final glaze and finishing touches. With step-by-step guidance and plenty of individual support, you will develop your own painting over the course of the day and leave with a completed portrait.
What to Expect
A morning demonstration (10:00–10:30) introducing the grisaille underpainting method.
Step-by-step guidance as you develop your own portrait from the ground up.
A second demonstration at 2:00 pm focusing on glazing techniques and finishing touches.
Time throughout the day to practice, paint, and receive individual feedback.
By the end of the session, you will take home a finished portrait.
Practical Details
Date & Time: 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
Skill level: Suitable for all levels — from beginners keen to learn the method to experienced painters looking to refine their technique.
Materials: All materials and lunch will be supplied. Just bring an apron or wear old clothes.
For a very special experience, enjoy a night or three at The Bell in Ticehurst. If you would like to bring a partner who doesn’t want to do a course, there are plenty of great things to do locally – a perfect staycation to explore the delights of the Kent/Sussex countryside or our favourite arty places locally. Accommodation is subject to availability so please BOOK DIRECT with The Bell - by calling 01580 200300 or booking on their website. Please let them know you are attending a course.