There is a basic core unit designed to give the candidate a simple understanding of color and the ability to make simple visual notes using a variety of ideas and materials, including those used in Picture Restoration. Students keep a reference file where they store and update, keep samples required for the projects to be achieved, collected articles/ideas/work of others/details of exhibitions visited for further use.

During the course the students will learn to study the various methods of painting related to tempera, oil and other materials, to understand the history of color and binding material, selection of canvas or base surfaces, surface preparation, tempera base colors, use of oil colors and varnish, understanding general chemistry with reference to light and its effect on various materials, understanding the use of photographic research to establish the background of a painting, recognizing main characteristic of the original painting material (oil or tempera), acquire drawing and painting techniques, and apply these to retouching of paintings. Students will also be trained to recognize the main characteristic of the varnishes used, solvents, their purpose and their use, handle, store and use tools, equipment, and materials correctly and safely, understand health and safety requirements applicable to the use of paints, varnishes and solvents, understand the limitations of their knowledge and experience, and evaluate when to ask for advice and help.