Foundations of Alchemy is a six-part course examining the history, theory, and practice of alchemy in its various forms and aspects.
Working from primary sources the course will provide a solid foundation for any future work or research into alchemy and its practices. It will also outline how to set up for practical work in a small space with simple equipment assembled from ordinary things from hardware or kitchen supply stores.
This course is open to all regardless of one’s experience and knowledge of alchemy. It is perfect for the absolute beginner as we will start from the very basic foundations and first principles in developing our study. And there is plenty here for the advanced student of alchemy as paths to a deeper work will be indicated with textual support provided through advanced readings.
Brian Cotnoir
Alchemist, artist, and award-winning filmmaker. He has presented workshops and seminars around the world on various aspects of alchemical theory and practice based on his research.
A contributor to Frater Albertus’ Parachemy, he is also the author of a series of Alchemy Zines. His books include Alchemy: The Poetry of Matter, Practical Alchemy: A Guide to the Great Work, Alchemical Meditations, On the Quintessence of Wine, and the Emerald Tablet (his translations of and commentary on, the earliest Arabic and Latin versions of this seminal text).
His film work has been screened at Museum of Modern Art, Sundance Film Festival, HBO, PBS and other international venues. Khepri Press, launched in 2014 with the publication of the Emerald Tablet, is the vehicle and portal for his alchemical work.
Course Curriculum
-
Class 1 – Foundations
Introduction to Alchemy – scope and definition of alchemy
Overview of Creation, Cosmos, World Views, and Theories
Signs and Symbols – How to Read an Alchemical Text
The Emerald Tablet
-
Class 2: Evolution and Spread I
Alchemy’s forms, key practices, and development examined through its history. Greco-Roman alchemy Byzantine alchemy Islamic alchemy
-
Class 3 – Evolution and Spread II
Alchemy’s forms, key practices, and development examined through its history.
European alchemy
And an overview of the alchemy of India, Tibet, and China.
-
Class 4 – Alchemical Emblems and Icons
A survey of the development and meaning of alchemical images.
Aurora Consurgens
Splendor Solis
Rosarium Philosophorum
Book of Lambspring
Atalanta Fugiens
-
Class 5 – The Alchemical Physical Practice
Theory into Practice
Key Practices – Distillation, Calcination, Circulation.
The Lab/oratory – The Locus of Practice
The Work – Transmutation, Quintessence, Aurum Potabile, Volatilization of Salt
Artificial Gems
-
Class 6 – Alchemical Practice
Inner alchemy and dream
Alchemical partnership
Unifying the inner practice with outer practice.
Setting Up and Simple Fundamental Project Outlines
