The Professional Surface Lab: Mastering Canvas, Paper, Wood Panels, and Advanced Ground Preparation

This course provides an advanced technical foundation in preparing professional painting supports, including canvas, wood panels, and various paper-based surfaces. Participants will learn the scientific principles governing material behavior, structural stability, and surface responsiveness to different painting media. Through demonstrations and guided practice, the course covers canvas stretching standards, wood treatment, and the controlled application of preparatory layers to ensure optimal adhesion, absorbency, and long-term archival performance.

In the second phase, the program focuses on correcting surface imperfections, managing dents and tension imbalances, and applying preventive conservation procedures aligned with international studio and museum practices. By the end of the training, participants will be equipped to prepare exhibition-ready painting surfaces, diagnose structural problems, and implement professional solutions suitable for both artistic and conservation environments.

Course Objectives:

• Professional fundamentals in canvas stretching, wood treatment, and structural quality standards.

• Canvas stretching techniques that achieve uniform tension without stressing or deforming fibers.

• Application of preparatory layers (gesso) with controlled thickness according to archival requirements.

• Correcting imperfections, leveling surfaces, and addressing dents and tension imbalances.

• Implementing preventive conservation procedures related to the support structure and long-term stability.

• Practical intensive training conducted in accordance with Ateliers Conservatoires standards.

Main Topics:

1. Types of supports and criteria for selecting each material.

2. Wood conditioning, frame construction, and structural reinforcement.

3. Canvas stretching methods and tension-control systems.

4. Application of gesso and specialized grounds.

5. Diagnosing and correcting structural and surface defects.

6. Preventive conservation strategies during preparation and long-term use.

Learning outcomes:

• Mastering the preparation of painting supports to museum-grade specifications.

• The ability to identify and diagnose structural and surface problems, and develop professional technical solutions.

• A comprehensive understanding of material properties and achieving long-term structural stability.

• Practical, transferable skills applicable in both studio practice and conservation settings.

Target Audience:

This advanced program is specifically designed for:

• Professional Artists.

• Graduate Students & Postgraduate Students (Fine Arts/Art Education/Archaeological Conservation)

• Experimental Media Professionals.

• Art college students.

• Conservation and restoration specialists

• Gallery staff.

Duration details:

Duration: 18 training hours.

Format: Practical workshops + simple laboratory experiments.

Certification: Accredited certificate of attendance.

Location: Hossam El-Kady Studio – Cairo.

Ready to elevate your art practice? Enroll today, share this course with a fellow artist, and join our community!