Facilitator: Marius von Brasch
This course introduces you to both the intriguing symbolism of Renaissance alchemical imagery and how to make paintings or drawings in response to what the pictures, motifs and colours trigger in us as individuals. It invites the participants to actively engage with these ancient pictures and develop their own contemporary visuals.
Event time: Mon 13th May 2024 at 4:00pm - Thu 16th May 2024 at 4:00pm
Splendor Solis
This course aims to explore new ways of visualising what alchemy has to offer in our contemporary world, and to allow the art historical and symbolic aspects to provide unexpected springboards for the new.
Symbolic alchemy, also known as the ‘Great Work’ of transformation, presents enigmatic and fearless visions of symbolic deaths and resurrections. The surreal procedures and balancing acts lead ultimately to an integration of the complementary forces of light and dark, female and male.
The transformative ‘Work’ culminates in the emergence of vital healing and redemption for an individual, but also for humanity on a greater scale. It rehabilitates the individual and the world as ‘divine matter’ and rejuvenated ’gold’ of the sun. Strikingly contemporary, and contrary to most Western religious models, alchemy maintains an equality of spirit and matter, woman and man, body and soul; and demands, in a political sense, the fusion of power and service.
Dragon George (2022)
You will be introduced you to Renaissance illuminations and prints from Splendor Solis, Aurora Consurgens and Atalanta Fugiens, followed by time for painting, meditation and discussion.
Participants are invited to work alchemically by merging the materiality of paint with the transformative input of thinking, feeling and unconscious elements.
Painting and Alchemy is for artists of all levels of experience who feel a call to explore and work with alchemical ideas and visuals.
The course closely relates to Marius’ practice as a painter, and he is passionate about supporting individual (not pre-conceived) approaches to painting.
Black Sun (2022)
Because of the course’s short duration and emphasis on experimentation, you will work with acrylics, wax pastels and crayons on paper. All quality materials and brushes are included. However, if you wish to bring your favourite acrylic brushes, please do so.
Hawkwood is a stunning Grade II listed 19th Century country house, surrounded by 42 acres of sustainably managed woodland, farmland, and gardens. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – it is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a diverse selection of nearly 150 courses, there’s plenty to choose from, including courses in transformative leadership, future thinking, inner life, music and the arts. Our programme of courses is led by experienced tutors and leaders in their fields.
Both residential and non-residential rates are available. Residential options are fully inclusive with all meals provided. Non-residential options include suppers, lunches and all refreshments and exclude B&B.
Mindful walking through our woodland trails
Meditate in our Woodland Sanctuary
Go on a hike and explore the Cotswolds AONB
Discover surrounding charming market towns
Please use the form below to register your interest in the course or event
Arrival and registration with tea 4pm; the course starts with supper at 6.30pm. The course ends on Thursday with afternoon tea at 4pm.
German-British painter Marius von Brasch received his MA with distinction from Winchester School of Art (Uni of Southampton) where he also completed his practice-based PhD, both in Fine Art Painting. He was awarded the Abbey Fellowship in Painting at The British School in Rome in 2013.
Marius has a background in psychotherapy and literature and teaches experiential approaches to painting as well as courses on art and literature. He works from his studio in Rookley, Isle of Wight. His work is in the Priseman Seabrook Collection, the University of Essex Modern and Contemporary British Art Collection and private collections.
Marius von Brasch is represented by Jenn Singer Gallery.
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