Enroll Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/byzantine-iconography-painting-series-1-painting-basics-2/
Embarking on the path of Byzantine iconography is a rewarding journey, and mastering the fundamentals is key to creating truly resonant works. “Byzantine Iconography Painting Series 1: Painting Basics (2)” on Udemy is an excellent next step for those who have completed the introductory lessons or have some foundational painting experience. This course delves deep into the often-overlooked but crucial aspect of painting garments, a skill that can make or break the visual harmony of an icon.
The instructor expertly guides students through the “magic” of the tetrachrome palette, demonstrating how a limited set of colors can yield a surprising range of hues and depths. The course is structured around practical application, focusing on painting several common types of garments found in icons. This hands-on approach is invaluable for beginners, as the instructor wisely emphasizes that neglecting garment details can detract from even the most beautifully rendered faces – a lesson learned through personal experience.
The lessons are thoughtfully designed to build confidence and skill. We begin with a fascinating exploration of color mixing, where the instructor reveals how black and white can combine to create a vibrant blue. This section is dedicated to painting two contrasting garments, one warm red and one cool blue, while simultaneously learning to depict simple hanging folds. This is a fantastic introduction to manipulating light and shadow on fabric.
Next, the course tackles the challenge of painting a white loincloth, as seen in iconic depictions of Christ. This lesson is a masterclass in rendering white, incorporating various fold types such as drop folds, hanging folds, and even a knot. It’s a testament to the instructor’s ability to break down complex forms into manageable steps.
Perhaps the most anticipated lesson for many will be the one focusing on the head covering, a notoriously tricky element with its curved lines. The instructor wisely includes a warm-up exercise to build confidence with these specific brushstrokes before tackling the head covering itself. Furthermore, this lesson showcases the incredible versatility of the tetrachrome palette by using the same colors as a previous mauve sleeve to create a rich, dark burgundy head covering with subtle highlights (photismata). This demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of color economy and application.
The course provides a clear and concise list of necessary materials, including specific pigments like Yellow Ochre, Iron Oxide Black, and various Mars Reds, along with Titanium White. The importance of egg emulsion for tempera painting is highlighted, and the recommended tools range from round and flat brushes to droppers and a water container. The use of hot press watercolor paper for exercises is also a practical suggestion.
In conclusion, “Byzantine Iconography Painting Series 1: Painting Basics (2)” is a highly recommended course for aspiring iconographers. It moves beyond basic color theory to provide practical, step-by-step instruction on rendering garments with depth, form, and color. The instructor’s clear explanations, combined with the focus on essential techniques, make this course an indispensable resource for anyone serious about learning Byzantine iconography. It’s an investment that will undoubtedly elevate the quality of your icon work.
Enroll Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/byzantine-iconography-painting-series-1-painting-basics-2/