Inspired by the exhibition, 'Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300–1350', this practical painting course looks at a painting medium that was used from about the 6th to the 15th century, when eventually oil paint took over as the primary painting medium. Sienese painters Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini and Pietro and Ambrogio Lorenzetti, dominated the painting scene through experimentation and imagination. Their work went on to influence European painting, far beyond their lives.  

Egg tempera is built up over layers, and the more layers you add, the more luminous the colour becomes. It dries quickly, is very durable over time, and is quite unlike any other painting medium. The colours created are clear and jewel-like. Egg tempera lent itself to the Sienese style, emphasising the artists’ skills and vision. 

This four-week course explores the medium through looking at the history of egg tempera, visiting the exhibition to see the artists’ techniques up close, looking at pigments and materials used, making paint and finally creating a small work, either from a reference or still life. Robin will give individual guidance, a demonstrations,  and an assortment of stage-by-stage photographs of her egg tempera paintings to help build your knowledge of egg tempera throughout the course.

All materials are provided, and you will take your paintings home with you. A handout with further resources will be provided in advance of the sessions.  

The exhibition was organised by the National Gallery and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York