Workbook "From Brushstroke to Ornament"

This workbook invites you into the living tradition of Khokhloma painting — not as decoration, but as a language of rhythm, movement, and mindful hand practice.

Across 45 structured pages, you will find a brief introduction to Khokhloma and “Pryanik” decorative motifs, an overview of two main types of Khokhloma painting, and a clear step-by-step approach to learning traditional Russian ornament — where to begin and how to build skill progressively. The workbook also includes recommended materials for effective practice and a spiral construction based on the Golden Ratio as a foundation for ornamental structure.

In addition, you will receive 15 guided practice sheets with basic element drills and small grass-style compositions designed to develop control, rhythm, and structural understanding.

WHAT YOU’LL PRACTICE:
 – basic Khokhloma brushstrokes and their combinations
– step-by-step practice pages
– rhythm, flow, and the logic of ornament
– space for slow, attentive repetition

THIS WORKBOOK IS FOR YOU IF:

 – you want to learn traditional ornament without rushing
– you value hand practice over perfect results
– you enjoy calm, focused creative work
– you are curious about traditional folk painting traditions

INCLUDES VIDEO GUIDANCE
– six short video demonstrations accessible via QR codes
– step-by-step guidance for basic Khokhloma brushstrokes
– videos designed to support the practice pages in this workbook
Additional resources:
– full video course available on Skillshare
– handcrafted natural hair brushes available on Etsy

by IRINA DE VICENTE
ARTIST AND TEACHER OF DECORATIVE PAINTING

Irina de Vicente works with ornament as a meaningful system — not just decoration — and shares traditional techniques through slow, mindful practice.

TRADITIONAL RUSSIAN ORNAMENT. SLOW AND MINDFUL