Introduction to Japanning 5-day course | Summer School: 29/06 - 03/07

Level: Beginners

Tutor: Hugi Hicyilmaz

Dates: From 29 June to 03 July 2026

Time: 10:00 – 17:00

Cost: £656

SHORT COURSE OVERVIEW

Japanning is the imitation of Asian lacquer using western materials and techniques that emerged in the 17th century. Discover and use traditional and modern materials to create decorative pieces of work. You will leave with an understanding of a forgotten decorative craft and equipped with the skills and confidence to continue and develop the practice in the future.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This intensive course will enable participants with diverse skill and experiences to learn and practice the art of Japanning.

The course will guide you through the numerous steps taken to realise a finished piece of work.

Participants will learn to prepare and apply pigmented varnishes layers which will then be embellished with a decorative design using gold and silver leaf, speckled gold, metal powders, toning and fine inked line work. Areas with relief will be modelled to stand in contrast to the flat background and allow the design to pop.

Each new material and technique will be introduced and demonstrated to enable participants to gain knowledge and experience.

Test boards will be used to allow for experimentation and testing of materials and techniques before starting work on realising a design.

Plenty of original designs and reference material will be available to copy or participants may wish to bring their own images or work from which to draw inspiration.

What’s included: all teaching including notes, recipes as well as most art materials.

What isn’t included: Participants are required to bring along a range of art equipment including an assortment of artists brushes, scalpel and blade, pen and paper or notebook, pencils (HB). Glass jars with lids. It is essential to bring along 2 Size 30 or size 40 da Vinci FIT SYNTHETICS — Series 5073 brushes, spalter synthetic hair as well as a couple of size 00 and 000 artist bushes. Please also bring along an apron or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

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Host or Publisher City & Guilds of London Art School