Studying Classical Portrait Painting in Florence: My Month at The Angel Academy of Art

In October 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Florence, Italy, to study at The Angel Academy of Art in a month-long intensive classical portrait painting workshop. This immersive experience deepened my understanding of classical realism and refined my approach to Renaissance painting techniques.

While I had previously studied these methods, the workshop challenged certain habits, reinforced foundational skills, and introduced me to new insights under the expert guidance of master instructors. The teachers were exceptionally precise, deeply knowledgeable, and incredibly dedicated to preserving the traditions of classical painting.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the experience was meeting M. John Angel himself. His lectures and demonstrations were nothing short of fascinating. As a former student of Pietro Annigoni, his expertise in traditional oil painting techniques was extraordinary. I particularly enjoyed his “Oh, by the way…” side tips, where he shared invaluable insights, recommended artists to study, and emphasised key principles every painter should consider.

An Inspiring Community of Artists

The workshop’s small group setting allowed for personalised instruction, making it an incredibly enriching experience. Meanwhile, the academy’s full-time students—an exceptionally talented, diverse group from around the world—were pursuing a rigorous three-year fine art diploma. Their dedication and progress were incredibly inspiring. What stood out was the wide range of ages—some students had come straight from school, while others were fulfilling a lifelong dream to master classical painting later in life.

Within our classical portrait painting group, we quickly formed a close-knit bond, constantly discussing art, sharing techniques, and enjoying the beauty of Florence together. After long days of painting, unwinding with a meal and a glass of wine—surrounded by the city’s breathtaking architecture—was the perfect way to reflect and recharge.

Reaffirming My Passion for Realism

Studying at The Angel Academy of Art reaffirmed my passion for realist painting and the pursuit of technical mastery. Being surrounded by artists who share a deep appreciation for fine art and traditional techniques was a powerful reminder that I’m part of a larger artistic lineage.

It also underscored a contrast I often feel in Australia’s art scene, where contemporary trends dominate and classical realism is less widely embraced. This experience has strengthened my skills, deepened my knowledge, and ignited new ideas on how to blend historical techniques with contemporary subjects in my future work.

Florence has long been a haven for artists, and studying there was nothing short of transformative. I look forward to applying everything I’ve learned to my paintings—and perhaps returning for more!