Instructor: Olja Stipanovic

Skill level: All Levels

Date: Saturday, December 12th, 2026

Time: 11am - 2pm

Illumination refers to the handwritten or hand-rendered text and image with gold, color, ornament, and symbolism. This is an introductory class aimed at those who have never gilded before. It focuses on using water based paint media and raised gilding on paper or parchment to create medieval illumination style miniature paintings. You should come to class with a pencil sketch of your miniature painting. Decide if you want to create a historiated initial, a miniature painting, or a symbolic meandering pattern. Beyond new technical skills, you’ll gain valuable insights into the rich history of medieval book illumination, bringing context and adding depth to your creative process.

Students will need to purchase one book of genuine gold leaf [18k or more]. A book of 5 leaves is more than enough. 

https://www.goldenleafproducts.com/order-23k-gold-leaf.html Imitation leaf will not give you the classical shine and illumination and will begin to oxidize almost immediately but it can be used to practice.

Student will need to bring paper or parchment they want to work on, water based paints like watercolors, tempera or gouache, assortment of fine bristle brushes, clean cotton rag, 

All other supplies and tools like gesso, bole, sizing, burnishers etc. will be provided.