PORTRAITURE FROM A PHOTOGRAPH | JADE BUTLER
Dates: Saturday 30th & Sunday 31th January 2027
Times: 10am - 4pm
Location: Enniskerry
Skill Level: all levels welcome
Please see detailed workshop information below
If this course is fully booked or not currently scheduled, go ahead add your name to the waiting list HERE
Payment plans available contact us directly
aBOUT THE WORKSHOP
In this portrait painting workshop, Jade will guide you through the creation of a single portrait painting using a layered approach rooted in traditional techniques with a contemporary finish. While the final painting will be completed in oil, we’ll begin with a fast-drying acrylic layer to establish form while ensuring a faster drying time.
We’ll explore the use of the imprimatura technique to establish tonal values and create a cohesive foundation. Through step-by-step progression and live demonstrations, Jade will offer guidance on painting techniques, colour mixing, and the process of building a refined portrait using a photographic reference.
This course is suitable for both beginners and those with painting experience who wish to develop their portraiture skills through classical oil methods enhanced by modern materials and approaches.
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Paint a portrait from start to finish using a structured, layered approach.
Learn how to block in form quickly with acrylic to speed up your process.
Use tonal underpainting to create depth and harmony from the very first layer.
Understand how to mix skin tones and develop a subtle, balanced colour palette.
Gain confidence working from photographic references.
Watch live demonstrations that break down each stage of the painting.
Explore how to combine classical techniques with a fresh, contemporary finish.
Improve brushwork, blending, and detail through guided, hands-on practice.
Develop your eye for proportion, structure, and facial expression.
Receive individual feedback to support your personal painting style and growth.
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Through step-by-step progression and live demonstrations, Jade will offer guidance on painting techniques, colour mixing, and the process of building a refined portrait using a photographic reference.
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• Taklon Brush Set with variety of sizes (/any brush set suitable for oil paint - but not
hog hair)
• Daler Rowney Graduate Brush Liner 10/0 or similar
• Gesso Panel 25 x 30 cm / 30 x 40 cm
• Odourless Solvent ( Recommended - Gamsol)
• Acrylic paint – Burnt Sienna
• Lint-free cloth or rag
• Tablet/ Laptop/ high quality print image to view your photo reference on.
Range of oil paints –
• Titanium White
• Naples Yellow
• Lemon Yellow / Nickle Yellow Old Holland
• Raw Sienna - recommended brand Old Holland
• Naples Yellow Red - recommended brand Rembrandt/ Flesh Tint
• Warm white/ Yellow Light - recommended brand WW - Gamblin /YL -Old Holland
• Cadmium red - recommended brand Windsor & Newton Artist’s Oil
• Transparent Red Oxide - recommended brand Windsor & Newton Artist’s Oil
• Kings Blue Light - recommended brand Old Holland
• Blue Black - recommended brand Windsor & Newton Artist’s Oil
• Neutral Tint Old Holland
“Every portrait that is painted with feeling is a portrait of the artist, not of the sitter.”
