Take a journey with artist Alice Mumford to explore the intimately lit domestic spaces of Bonnard’s paintings. Learn how to capture the warm diffused light of Bonnard’s tabletop settings and see how he captured the poetry of everyday life as it played out in living rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. 

In her introduction, Alice will give a brief overview of how other artists have depicted light, looking at Hopper, Morandi, Gwen John and Rembrandt. This will help to emphasise how the use of an electric light can change the outcome of a painting. We will then do some practical exercises that will help give an understanding of how tone and colour can be used to create big contrasts, giving the effect of electric light.  

Alice will set up a still-life in the spirit of a Bonnard painting in the Porthmeor Studio. After she has done her demonstration, we will work alongside each other from the still-life, which was recorded live from the Studio.

This course takes place over two session each over 2 hours in length. You are encouraged to make time to spend on the exercises and give yourself a few days to complete the course. You can watch again as often as you like for 90 days.

What will I learn?

• A better understanding of shadows, and therefore light, in painting.
• How to use colour and tone to create drama.
• How to unpack a painting to understand colour and tone better.
• More about the approach of Bonnard and other painters, with a focus on his investigations into light and shadow painting.

Who would this course suit?

This course is suitable for any level of experience. Ideal for anyone already working in oils interested in learning more about how to add tone and depth to their paintings. Alice’s enthusiasm and experience create the ideal conditions for new ways of exploring still-life painting.

How does an online session work?

Once you have booked you will be able to watch on demand immediately. 

You can pause, rewind and watch again as often as you like until the session expires 90 days after purchase

You will also be invited to join our Facebook Alumni group so you can share your discoveries with our community of fellow students from around the world.

You will need access to the internet and ideally a Smart TV, PC or laptop or a tablet with audio. Phones are not suitable unless cast to a smart TV.