Painting on Copper: Portraits and Figures
Join Arthur Gain for this unique two-day workshop, where you'll learn and practice techniques for painting on copper, from creating patina effects to finishing a painting. Arthur will demonstrate the painting of a small portrait and a figure study using two different types of copper panels.
20 and 27 June 2026
New to painting on copper? Learn where to order panels and plates
We are excited to announce the Painting on Copper Online Workshop, which will take place in June (live demos on Saturdays the 20th and 27th). Arthur will cover all the technical aspects, explain the differences between copper and other supports, demonstrate methods for creating patina effects, and discuss working from photos.
We will paint two small pieces together: a portrait and a figure study.
Prerecorded Content: How to prepare copper panel for painting - patina, color effects, texture.
Schedule - same for each day (US Eastern Time)
10AM - 12:30PM - Painting demonstration
12:30PM - 1:00PM - Lunch break
1:00PM - 3:30PM - Painting demonstration
3:30PM - 3:55PM - Q&A
Students are welcome to paint along during the event or watch the multi-camera HD recording afterward and practice at their own pace.
What you’ll learn:
How to paint on bare copper while using the unpainted areas as decorative elements
How to create patina effects using easy-to-find tools and materials
How to analyze and simplify photo references to paint efficiently on relatively small panels
How to paint luminous skin tones
How to create expressive, gestural figure studies
What Students Are Saying:
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Spectate Tier
$165
Full Access to all live sessions, demos, materials and assignments
Recordings: 12 months
Access to Alla Prima Academy community
Weekly Private Critique Sessions
$365
Two 45 minutes private Zoom Critique session with Arthur Gain
Full Access to all demos, materials and assignments
Recordings: 12 months
Access to Alla Prima Academy community
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get a copper panel for the workshop?
Copper surfaces are generally easy to source, and you do not need anything rare or custom-made.
The main option for the workshop is a pure copper plate, preferably around 18 gauge / 1 mm thick. These plates are commonly sold for etching and printmaking and can often be ordered online, including through Amazon, or purchased from local art supply/material suppliers. Arthur will use a 20×20 cm (8×8”) copper plate during the workshop, but smaller sizes such as 15×15cm or 5×7” will also work.
EUROPE:
Buy copper plate on Artemiranda (EU) | Jackson’s (UK&EU) | Amazon (DE) 15×15cm | LIST WILL BE UPDATED
US :
Buy copper plate on Amazon: 8×8in | 6×9in | Can also be 5×7” or 6×8”
Buy copper plate on Blick (US)
Copper composite panels (this option is mostly for US students due to shipping costs): Artefex
Copper plates and copper panels are mostly identical when it comes to the technique of paint application. The main difference lies in the process of creating the patina effect: copper plates are more versatile, allowing for different methods. If you can get both, we recommend trying both. (Arthur will do one demonstration on an Artefex panel and one on an etched copper plate.)
What if I can’t attend live session?
All live sessions are recorded, and students will have access to the recordings the following day. Don’t worry - you won’t miss a thing.
Is this Workshop good for beginners?
It is absolutely great for the beginners and for experienced painters alike. Arthur’s method ensures covering all essential fundamentals while demonstrating and explaining all (including advanced) aspects of painting with oils.
What time and day do live sessions start?
The live sessions take place on June 20th and 27th. Each day follows the same schedule (US Eastern Time):
10 AM - 12:30 PM - Painting demonstration
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch break
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM - Painting demonstration
To keep the session comfortable, short breaks will be included, allowing time for the model to rest and participants to recharge.
What is the difference between Full Access and Full Access + Private Critique?
The Full Access option includes everything you need to participate in the workshop: all live sessions, demos, materials and assignments, a bonus figure reference pack, 12 months of access to the recordings, and access to the Alla Prima Academy community.
The Full Access + Private Critique option includes all of the above plus two 45-minute one-on-one Zoom critique sessions with Arthur Gain. This private session gives you the opportunity to receive personalized feedback on your work, ask questions, and accelerate your progress with Arthur’s direct guidance. Spots for this option are limited.
What type of paint do I need to paint on copper?
Oil paints.
What materials do I need to participate in the Workshop?
A materials guide is provided as part of the course.
About Arthur Gain
Arthur Gain, based in Barcelona, Spain, is a self-taught oil painter with a diverse artistic journey. His works have been showcased in esteemed venues worldwide, including the MEAM in Spain, the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum in the US, and the Museo La Contea Del Caravaggio in Italy.
Arthur is a winner and finalist of numerous international competitions, including the prestigious BoldBrush Award, finalist multiple times in competitions such as BoldBrush, ModPortrait, and ARC Salon.
Nowadays, Arthur focuses on personal projects and commissions for private and corporate clients. Additionally he continues to share his expertise with a broader audience both offline and online, including professional artists seeking to enhance their skills in oil painting and alla prima technique, as well as students at the Barcelona Academy of Art.
Website: arthurgain.com