iscover this ancient form of painting adapted as a viable medium for the innovative paper and book artist.

We will paint in the authentic fresco technique using traditional colors as well as contemporary limeproof pigments and new color concentrates only recently available.

Learn the craft of mixing the final coat of slaked lime plaster (intonaco) for the day's painting, and apply it to paper that has been specially prepared to receive it.

You will paint the intonaco using pigments mixed with distilled water. The color is held in place by the lime as it dries. The pigments and lime create an especially luminous quality to the surface.

Painting in the true fresco technique is a special experience, not like any other medium, although, in a sense, it is the ultimate watercolor expression.

Fresco has been the favorite medium to monumentalize and commemorate the spiritual and cultural messages of the past. You have the opportunity to connect with the tactile, artistic, and spiritual experience of the great cave painters of 30,000 years ago as well other indigenous painters around the world, including the great historical fresco painters in western cultures. In addition to teaching the art of painting in the true fresco tradition, Irene will present the great ages of fresco by sharing her research with you.

You can expect to complete at least two frescoes on paper—working from your own designs or from historical examples provided by the instructor.

Some painting experience is desirable.

All supplies needed for the course are covered in the materials fee.

In addition to the gallery of fresco images accessible above, you may visit a gallery of Irene’s monotypes by clicking here. You may also see a gallery of Irene’s artist books by clicking here.

You may also want to visit ireneclark.net.

(This workshop is not currently on the schedule. You may to request that we offer it sometime in the future.)