Workshops
Workshops are run by resident artists and internationally renowned artists. These are held regularly at East Devon Art Academy, Old Fore Street, Sidmouth EX10 8LS.
During the Summer School, which runs in July and August, workshops and short courses will be held Monday - Saturday.
There is plenty of local accommodation in Sidmouth. Please see our accommodation page. For a full list of hotels and guest houses, please contact us.
En plein air workshops benefit from our beautiful coastline, just three minutes' walk from the studio.
Studio-based workshops are held in our light and spacious studio. The space is well equipped with studio easels, drawing boards etc.
Below is our current list of forthcoming 2026 workshops at EDAA.
Please contact us if you would like further details or to book.
If a workshop is marked as full, it is always worth contacting us in case a place becomes available.
Please bring your own paints, paper, canvasesand brushes, unless these are provided in that particular workshop.
Materials can be purchased at the art shop opposite us. South West Art Materials.
Easles, drawing boards plus other studio items such as palettes, water pots etc. will be provided.
Workshops run 10am to 4pm each day, unless stated otherwise.
WORKSHOPS 2026
Julie Dunster.
En plein air Painting in Oils.
27th & 28th June 2026.
Take it outside! So many famous painters, like Monet, Sorolla, and Sargeant all painted
outdoors, from life as an essential part of their painting practice. With good reason!
It is challenging to paint from life in an ever-changing landscape, rather than from static photographs, but undoubtedly it is the best way to capture accurate colour and tonal relationships,
recognise edge differences, depict atmospheric perspective in action and find subjects you may not even have thought to paint.
Additionally painting “en plein air” is exhilarating, sometimes exhausting, and often emotive, but always memorable and mindful. It often
leads to looser paintings and a greater understanding of the art of simplification. If you are ready for this challenge this course may be for you!
With tips and strategies to help you leapfrog many of the difficulties of plein air painting, this structured 2 day course with professional artist and tutor Julie Dunster, is for artists
who are comfortable working with oils in the studio and want to take their early steps in painting outdoors, in the inspiring scenic town of Sidmouth.
A reasonable level of fitness is necessary for this workshop.
In the event of absolutely atrocious weather we will work on fundamentals of plein air or work from life in the warm and cosy studio. But be prepared as we won't be deterred by most weather and
September is usually lovely!
Julie Dunster is a professional artist who regularly exhibits with many of the major esteemed societies at the Mall Galleries in London, including the Royal Society Marine Artists. A former winner of the Great Broadway Paint Off plein air competition, she is also an Education and Psychology graduate with extensive education experience.
This award-winning South West Academician works in oils: much of her work is painted directly from life and inspired by the light. While she loves to paint coastal scenes, she has had a range of marine, landscape, floral, and portrait paintings selected to exhibit at The Mall galleries, London alongside prestigious art societies such as the Royal Society of Marine Artists, Royal Institute of Oil Painters and New English Art Club to name just a few.
She is represented by galleries in the UK, although her work can be found in private collections worldwide. She also writes for Art publications like The Artist and Leisure Painter.
Julie is renowned for her expressive seascapes and landscapes.
Cost £160 for two days.
Catherine Osbond
Portrait Drawing.
29th June.
Learn how to draw portraits using pencil, charcoal or soft pastel.
Tinted pencils on coloured paper is also an option.
Use of line, shape, form tone and texture will be covered.
Suitable for all levels as there will be plenty of individual tuition as well as demonstrations.
£70.
www.catherineosbond.co.uk
Catherine Osbond.
Portrait Painting.
30th June 2026
Learn how to paint expressive portraits in oils during this one-day course.
You will learn how to use oil paint in thin glazes and stains. This is a lovely technique that gives a glow to the finished portrait.
Use of colour, creating form and use of brushwork will all be covered.
This workshop is predominantly a painting workshop.
Therefore, it is aimed at those with some experience of drawing and wish to develop their painting skills in portraiture.
However, if you are new to portraiture, help can be given with the drawing side, if this is required.
The course will consist to a mix of demonstration and individual tuition.
£70.
Melissa Wishart.
The Landscape.
Working towards Semi -Abstraction.
2nd & 3rd July 2026.
Using acrylics and water-based mediums, a chance to explore composition, colour and palette mixing. Mark making, textures and the use of various tools will also be explored.
Using landscape references gleaned over the summer, we will delve deeper into the nature of landscapes by liberating ourselves from adhering to the strictly topographical to explore the meaning of landscape to us and the fundamental nature of our mediums. We will engage with the landscape in a way that will speak to our internal landscape and sense of well-being.
Through a guided process we will build from the geology, the responses of all our senses at the landscape site, the weather, the light and the human impact we perceive on the landscape past and present. Then, through a step-by-step guided process on day one we will establish compositions through different exercises and determine the palette. Then we will get 'in the zone' and paint, allowing happy accidents, use of different tools and layering. We aim to do a couple of paintings over the two days and several drawing and painting exercises to build up skills useful in semi-abstraction.
£160.
Catherine Osbond.
Watercolour with a Difference.
6th July 2026.
A fun and informative workshop where we shall play with creating textures with watercolour.
We shall explore the use of additives for watercolour plus the addition of mixed media such as oil pastel, soft pastel, ink and gouache.
We shall then use what we learnt from our experiments to create paintings based on landscape, seascapes or flowers depending on your interest.
All materials provided.
£70 for the day.
www.catherineosbond.co.uk
Richard Suckling.
'Expressive Landscape and Seascape Painting in Soft Pastel.'
8th, 9th and 10th July 2026.
In this three-day workshop we will create bold contemporary paintings using soft pastels of both landscapes and seascapes.
Working from both small sketches and photographs we will cover composition, drawing, tone, colour and mark making.
Our aim will be to push the interpretation of the subject matter to create an expressive and personal finished painting.
We will use the various techniques available to the pastel artist and look at how versatile this wonderful medium can be for artists both in the studio and on location.
£220 for the three days.
www.richardsuckling.co.uk
Roger Dellar ROI.
Plein Air Painting in Oils.
11th to 13th July 2026
Paint landscapes in oils with this acclaimed artist.
Roger Dellar is an internationally renowned figurative artist who works in oils, pastels, mixed media, acrylics and water based media. His interest in observing people in their environments has influenced him to record and interpret them, capturing light effects.
This workshop will concentrate on working en-plein air in oils. Part of the first day will be in the studio where there will be ample opportunity for Roger to teach you painting skills. The remaining time will be painting en situ unless weather precludes.
Each day will start with a short demonstration. Pointers will be given on selecting a scene, how to compose it within a rectangle or square format, pointing out reasons practical and personal.
Colour mixing and paint handling will be dealt with as well as the importance of good brushwork and keeping a painterly quality.
Students will paint their own scenes with assistance and advice where needed. Each day will end with a short critique/ display and advice.
£220 for three days.
Liese Webley
Tides & Textures: Expressive Mixed Media Workshop
14th & 15th July 2026.
This two-day course invites you to explore the rich textures and atmospheric patterns of the Jurassic Coast through experimental mixed media.
Day one starts on the beach, where you’ll gather visual notes, make expressive sketches, and observe coastal textures up close.
In the studio, you’ll build layered, tactile artworks using acrylics, collage and mark-making tools.
Perfect for artists who want to add depth, texture, and expressive energy to their work.
£140 for two days.
www.liesewebley.com
Viktoria Prischedko.
18th and 19th July 2026.
FLOWING LANDSCAPES IN WATERCOLOUR.
CITY SCAPES.
A wonderful opportunity to learn from this inspirational and internationally renowned watercolour artist.
Each day Viktoria will lead students through how to plan and compose a painting, looking at shape, form, tone and colour. She will then demonstrate a painting from beginning to end.
She will then guide each student through their own paintings.
Prepare to be inspired!
The Magic of Colour Flow in Watercolor
Watercolour painting thrives on the interplay of colours.
Flowing gradients, the movement of pigments, harmonies, and contrasts bring forms to life and give the paintings emotional depth.
In this workshop, we will explore how colour creates perspective,
opens up space, and powerfully brings artistic ideas to life.
The course invites participants to experiment with the free flow of colour and demonstrates how striking compositions can
emerge through the deliberate use of colour.
THEME: Flowing Watercolour Technique "Wet-on-Wet"
The wet-on-wet watercolour technique is characterized by its spontaneous and flowing nature, allowing for the creation of atmospheric expressions. By balancing large, abstracted areas with vibrant details, this method captures moods in an emotional and compelling way.
The spontaneity of flowing watercolour stimulates creativity, enables intense colour gradations, and emphasizes minimalist thinking. By focusing on the essentials, subjects become expressive and impactful.
This workshop focuses on refining watercolour techniques and opens up new avenues for creative expression.
For examples of Viktoria’s work please go to:
www.instagram.com/viktoriaprischedko
Also look at pinterest: vikoria prischedko
Cost £290 for the two days.
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Viktoria Prischedko.
20th and 21st July 2026.
FLOWING LANDSCAPES IN WATERCOLOUR.
Flower Fields.
A wonderful opportunity to learn from this inspirational and internationally renowned watercolour artist.
Each day Viktoria will lead students through how to plan and compose a painting, looking at shape, form, tone and colour. She will then demonstrate a painting from beginning to end.
She will then guide each student through their own paintings.
Prepare to be inspired!
The Magic of Colour Flow in Watercolor
Watercolour painting thrives on the interplay of colours.
Flowing gradients, the movement of pigments, harmonies, and contrasts bring forms to life and give the paintings emotional depth.
In this workshop, we will explore how colour creates perspective,
opens up space, and powerfully brings artistic ideas to life.
The course invites participants to experiment with the free flow of colour and demonstrates how striking compositions can
emerge through the deliberate use of colour.
THEME: Flowing Watercolour Technique "Wet-on-Wet"
The wet-on-wet watercolour technique is characterized by its spontaneous and flowing nature, allowing for the creation of atmospheric expressions. By balancing large, abstracted areas with vibrant details, this method captures moods in an emotional and compelling way.
The spontaneity of flowing watercolour stimulates creativity, enables intense colour gradations, and emphasizes minimalist thinking. By focusing on the essentials, subjects become expressive and impactful.
This workshop focuses on refining watercolour techniques and opens up new avenues for creative expression.
For examples of Viktoria’s work please go to:
www.instagram.com/viktoriaprischedko
Also look at pinterest: vikoria prischedko
Cost £290 for the two days.
Tdays.Onl
Catherine Beale SWA
An introduction to ‘Gravity-Painted' Watercolours
Wednesday 22 July 2026
This day is an introduction to Catherine’s freeing wet-in-wet watercolour techniques.
Watch her demonstrate how to plot sparkling light effects before pooling washes in bright colour mixes directly on artboard.
Learn to disrupt them with drips and blurring water marks, all using the beautiful subject of trees reflected over water.
£90. 1 space left.
YOUNG STUDENTS’ ART WORKSHOPS.
24th & 25th July.
Also August 2026. Dates TBA.
9.30 am to 10.30 am each day for ages 5 to 8 years.
11 am to 12.45 am each day for ages 8 to 15 years.
Fun and informative sessions allowing young people to explore various mediums and develop their creativity.
Participants will have access to exploring drawing and painting using a wide variety of materials. Clay work is also available.
Techniques in drawing, watercolour, acrylics, soluble pencils, oil pastel and soft pastel will be shown.
We shall also have a workshop in simple printing techniques, such as block printing and monotypes.
There will also be a workshop on textile art with silk painting, printing and tie dying.
Exploratory techniques will be shown.
Experienced and qualified teachers.
All materials provided, including canvases, paint, drawing materials, collage materials, clay, Modroc etc.
£10 - £20 per session.
Catherine Beale SWA
An introduction to ‘Gravity-Painted' Watercolours
Thursday 23 July 2026
This day is an introduction to Catherine’s freeing wet-in-wet watercolour techniques.
Watch her demonstrate how to plot sparkling light effects before pooling washes in bright colour mixes directly on artboard.
Learn to disrupt them with drips and blurring water marks, all using the beautiful subject of trees reflected over water.
£90.
Full
Chris Forsey
RI.
Expressive Mixed Media Landscapes.
28th to 30th July 2026.
A chance to learn from this well-known artist. Create expressive landscapes in water-based media on this three-day workshop.
During this course Chris will give several short demos of techniques. The development of paintings from start to finish will be shown. He will then give advice and guidance as you progress with your work.
£220.
Virginia Hole.
Jurassic Dreams.
Inks, Watercolour and Textiles.
10th & 11th August 2026.
Using the Jurassic Coastline as Inspiration, we will be creating a Mixed Media and multi textural surface which will then be painted.
The second day will be spent interpreting the surface, using applied textile items and other embellishments.
£140 for the two days.
Catherine Osbond
Drawing and Sketching in Mixed Media. An exploratory approach.
12th & 13th August 2026.
Using a combination of graphite pencils, charcoal and inks used in an expressive way to capture the landscape and seascape.
With a combination of studio and en plein air work we shall discover ways to capture the sky, sea and shore.
Sketching and drawing techniques will be shown. Then we shall go to the shore where we can capture the land and seascapes.
We shall then bring our sketches back to the studio where sketches can be developed or worked from.
There will be an optional second day on 13th August where sketches and drawings will be developed using a wide range of materials and surfaces.
Using your sketches as starting points, various textures will be created using gesso, sand, acrylic gels and other mediums.
These textures will then be worked into using inks, acrylics, charcoal, graphite pencils and other mixed media.
Mainly studio based, but there will be opportunity to go out and collect more sketches to work from if you wish.
£70 per day. Materials included.
www.catherineosbond.co.uk
Peter James.
Pen and Ink Drawing.
14th August 2026.
In this one-day workshop we will explore the art and technique of pen & ink drawing. Once these techniques have been practiced, vibrant artwork/illustrations can be produced.
- Discuss the different Pen choices and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
- Pen control - Practice freehand lines and curves using a guide to draw over.
- Techniques - Demonstrate the techniques of stippling and cross hatching to create tone.
- Graduating tone - Using the techniques above, create a graduated tone from light to dark.
- Creating texture – Demonstrate how to draw textural element such as rock, wood, foliage.
- Thickness of line - Make elements stand out with a different thickness of line.
- Pen & wash - Use a water soluble ink pen and water brush to create tone and shadow.
- Transfer – Demonstrate a technique to transfer an outline image.
Afternoon
Starting the final piece of artwork – Using the techniques used in the morning session, proceed with a choice of images to create a pen & ink artwork.
£70.
Favell Bevan-Arti.
Pastels for Beginners.
18th & 19th August.
Learn how to use soft pastels in this two-day workshop aimed at those who wish to start in pastels and don’t know where to begin.
Further details to come.
£140.
Alex Boon.
Introduction to Nature Journaling. Weekend 15th & 16th August.
Discover a deeper connection with the natural world during this immersive two-day nature journaling weekend.
Nature journaling is a creative way to express your
relationship with nature in an illustrated book. This workshop introduces all the fundamentals of nature journaling with nature journaling educator and author, Alex Boon and is designed for anyone who wants to slow down, observe nature more closely and increase their creative
confidence.
Saturday focuses on using nature journaling as a way to pause, breathe and regain focus. We begin with a gentle walk through the Byes, taking time
to notice textures, colours and small seasonal details often overlooked in daily life. In the afternoon, we return to the studio to paint from the samples gathered on the walk, exploring how mindful
attention outdoors can be translated into attractive layouts on the journal page.
On Sunday, the emphasis shifts to nature journaling as a tool for learning and identification. A morning visit to Sidmouth beach will
introduce you to distinctive coastal plants and the basics of recognising key features in the field. The afternoon will be spent creating illustrated journal pages using samples and photographs,
building practical skills to help deepen your knowledge of local plants and birds.
Throughout the weekend, you will experience two complementary approaches to nature journaling: one that nurtures reflection and presence, and another that strengthens observational and scientific
understanding. All materials are provided, and expert guidance is offered at every stage, making this workshop welcoming and accessible to complete beginners as well as those wishing to enrich an
existing practice.
£150 for the weekend.
Peter James.
Abstract Landscape with Repeat Pattern
20th August 2026.
In this workshop we will explore the use of pattern/repeat mark making to create abstract landscapes from the imagination or source material. Vibrant works of art can be created that catch the eye.
Workshop summary:
- Demonstrate how to break down a source photograph to create an abstract composition.
- Show examples of how a sketchbook can be a catalyst for experimentation in technique and design and a valuable source of material for the future.
- Discuss different media choices including pens, markers, water colour and acrylic paint.
- Create a page of different repeat patterns that can be referenced in a final composition.
- Create simple thumbnail sketches of compositions from the imagination and use one to create a small design.
- Use different line thickness to make an artwork bold and with depth.
- Demonstrate the use of colour and how this can be applied to a composition with water colour and markers
In the afternoon we shall be working on a final picture using the ideas and techniques gained in the morning session. Individual guidance will be available to those that need it. This is the start of a journey into a different approach to traditional landscape art.
£70.
www.pjamescreative.co.uk
Jonathan Newey.
Dog Portrait with Graphite Pencil
Saturday 22nd August 2026
One day workshop with Jonathan Newey
“Drawing a Dog Portrait with Graphite Pencil” is an immersive one-day workshop designed for beginners and aspiring artists who love dogs.
Participants will learn how to observe canine features, understand proportions, and capture expression using the trace down technique.
The session covers building realistic fur texture and creating depth through shading and blending with techniques such as smudging in tones and lifting highlights with an eraser. Step-by-step demonstrations guide students from initial sketch to finished portrait and individual feedback ensures personalised support throughout the day. By the end of the workshop, each participant will take home a detailed dog portrait.
£80.
www.jonathannewey.com
Jonathan Newey.
Tiger portrait with coloured pencil
Sunday 23rd August 2026
One day workshop with Jonathan Newey.
“Drawing a Tiger Portrait with Coloured Pencil” is an inspiring one-day workshop designed for artists eager to explore vibrant wildlife drawings with coloured pencils.
Participants will learn how to construct accurate proportions using the trace down method and layer coloured pencils to achieve rich, realistic tones and textures.
The session covers understanding fur direction, blending techniques, and building depth through careful colour layering. Step-by-step demonstrations and guided practice help students develop confidence and control. Individual feedback is provided throughout the day. By the end of the workshop, each participant will complete a striking tiger portrait full of colour and life.
£80.
www.jonathannewey.com
Colin Palmer.
Watercolour with Pen & Ink.
24th & 25th August.
Choose to do one or both of these studio-based watercolour workshops.
Learn and master ink and wash techniques, basic perspective when drawing buildings, tips and secrets of painting skies, painting water in an effect way and much more.
Colin is a professional artist and a trained Architectural Illustrator based in the market town of Marlborough in Wiltshire. He provides artists impressions for architects, property developers and agents in addition to producing house portraits for the general public.
He is also a passionate and enthusiastic teacher and has, over the years built a reputation of bringing out the best in all his students, be they beginners, intermediate or experienced. His classes are well planned, fun and especially informative.
His set exercises are demonstrated in small stages ensuring everyone fully understands the tasks. All photographic reference will be provided with a different subject matter for each day.
Expect to learn and master ink and wash techniques, basic perspective when drawing buildings, tips and secrets of painting skies, painting water in an effect way and much more.
£80 per day.
www.colinpalmer-illustration.co.uk
Catherine Osbond.
Life Painting and Drawing in Mixed Media.
26th & 27th August 2026.
An experimental and informative one day course designed for those who wish to develop their life drawing alongside experimenting with a wide variety of materials and techniques.
During this workshop students will be given guidance in developing their figure drawing/paintings, including, use of composition, line, measuring techniques, developing awareness of visual space, use of tone, edges, contrast and colour.
In addition, students will be shown how to produce mixed media surfaces to draw/paint on, and various ways to develop drawing and paintings with a mixed media approach.
Various techniques will be explored, combining media such as watercolour, pastel, conté, acrylic, gouache, inks, oils, collage and other materials.
Various types of line work, brushwork, rags, cling film, gesso, collage materials, etc. will be explored to create different textures and mark making.
Demonstrations of different techniques will be given. Individual tuition will also be given.
The focus of the course is on exploration, so students are encouraged to try out their own ideas. You will have a chance to experiment and develop your own ideas.
£90 for the 26th August.
There is an optional second day on the 27th August where you will have a chance to develop what was learnt on the first day.
No tuition on that day but a chance to work from a professional Life model.
Optional second day will be an extra £40.
All materials supplied.
Maria Rose ROI.
Painting the Coast in Oils.
En plein air.
2nd & 3rd September 2026.
Maria will be leading a two day ‘plein air’ painting workshop, capturing the beauty of the East Devon coast, in a fresh and immediate way. Throughout the two days, you will learn the principles of ‘plein air’ painting, working outdoors from life. You will gain confidence to paint more freely within a shorter space of time, respond quickly, yet accurately, improve your colour mixing and application of oil paint.
You will also gain confidence in reacting more instinctively to create lively and fresh coastal paintings responding directly to nature.
This course will be best suited to those with some experience of oil painting looking to gain confidence in working outside.
£160.
www.mariarose.co.uk
Paul Bailey
Semi-Abstract Landscape and Seascape in Acrylics.
5th & 6th September 2026.
Paul's goal is to inspire and encourage students.
With a mixure of demonstrations and individual tuition, Paul will guide participants through their paintings.
Paul's demonstration will outline his approach to composition, how he selects his palette and the use of various techniques.
During the workshop Paul will focus and expand on some techniques, and introduce more ideas where necessary.
He will do this with short demonstrations.
.
A couple of his acrylic techniques, which are of interest, is the use of masking and layers.
£180 for two days.
paulbaileyart.co.uk
Nicky Hunter
Paint Bold & Beautiful Florals. Watercolour.
7th & 8th September 2026
Paint Bold & Beautiful Florals in a loose & expressive way with watercolour to give your floral artworks wow factor.
Nicky Hunter was previously an international known textile designer for 2 decades. Her passion for painting in inks, watercolour and other fluid mediums led her into a career as a full-time professional watercolour specialist using traditional methods in a contemporary style. She is particularly well known for her beautiful blooms and wildlife artworks. Her enthusiasm for the magical yet challenging medium of watercolour and generous teaching style will help you overcome your own challenges and use watercolour more successfully to elevate your artworks.
This is a studio-based course where we will progress what we learn in day 1 on to day 2, to get the most out of the experience booking both days is advised but you can book the days separately if unable to attend both.
£190.
Ian McManus
Painting Village Scenes in Watercolour.
9th & 10th September 2026.
Painting Village Scenes in loose & lively watercolour with internationally acclaimed watercolour master Ian McManus.
Ian is particularly well known for painting street scenes bustling with figures and cars that gives paintings a focal interest and sense of realism.
Ian helps students tackle a seemingly difficult subject matter and loosen up their painting style adding details without getting fussy or over working the painting. His 30 years’ experience painting in watercolours and teaching for 2 decades nationally and internationally means Ian brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to his friendly and approachable teaching style.
You will work on plein air local scenes or in studio if weather is inclement (or a mix of both).
Attending both days is advisable so you can get the most out of the experience, but you can book the days separately if unable to attend both. £190.
Iryna Yermolova
Contemporary Expressive Oils.
Portrait & Figure
11th to 13th September 2026.
East Devon Art Academy is delighted to introduce an inspiring new experience with contemporary artist Iryna Yermolova.
Iryna is an expressionist painter, originally from Ukraine and living and working in the UK for the past 20 years. Her distinctive, energetic style has earned her international recognition, with her works represented by galleries in New York, London, Berlin, Dubai, Singapore, and Paris, and held in private collections and museums around the world.
Her process is bold and intuitive: she often paints with builders’ brushes, cloths, white spirit, and even her fingers. Light seems to emerge directly from her canvases - raw, immediate, and alive - created through the interplay of running paint and richly textured impasto.
During the workshop, Iryna will take you through her entire creative process - from the very first steps to the final touches. She will show you how she mixes her paint, uses her mediums, and makes preliminary sketches before beginning a piece. She will demonstrate several of her unusual techniques and her personal signature style. After that, she will work closely with each participant, guiding you individually through your own painting process.
The academy feels incredibly fortunate to welcome Iryna for three special days of painting classes and cannot wait to share this unique experience with you.
Cost TBA.
With materials and lunch provided.
Hester Berry
Landscape in Oils.
1st & 2nd October 2026.
Learn from this well-known and popular artist.
The workshop is suitable for all levels.
Topics covered include, sketchbook use, tonal observation and studies, colour mixing and ways to apply oil paint using a variety of marks.to create movement and expression.
£180.
Catherine Beale SWA
'Breathing Life' into Watercolour Portraits
Thursday 8 - Friday 9 October 2026
An opportunity to create beautiful, expressive portraits full of colour with an experienced portrait artist. Use more water to generate atmosphere and naturally free up your painting style with an element of one-to-one tuition.
Catherine will introduce you step-by-step to how she plans light across her portraits before spreading on loose ‘gravity-painted’ watercolour washes, experimentally mixing on the painting for fresh colour.
Follow stepped demos. Understand how to build tone to generate the illusion of 3D.
Combine these loose watercolour skills in a series of close-up portrait studies using classic portraits and source photos of friends/family before working from life and a seated study.
£190.
FULL
Peter James
Bookbinding.
10th & 11th October 2026.
In this 2-day workshop, we will be learning the tools and techniques required to create a pamphlet stitch notebook and a hard cover sketchbook/journal with a decorative cover. Once these skills have been practiced, it can open up a multitude of projects.
This workshop will cover:
- The tools used for creating books
- Create a unique, abstract cover sheet.
- Make a pamphlet stitch notebook.
- Prepare paper into folded sections and introducing a technique to create a rustic torn edge.
- Sew sections to create a book block.
- Reinforce the spine using glue and mull.
- Construct case and spine with grey board, book cloth and coversheet.
- Assemble book block and case/spine to complete the sketch book/journal.
No experience needed. All materials and equipment will be provided.
Peter has worked as a graphic designer for 10 years and attained a BA (hons) in fine art. Since graduating, Peter has been exhibiting artwork, writing/illustrating children’s books and book binding. £140.
John Hoar.
Watercolour Fast and Free. 16th October 2026.
A chance to learn from this well-known artist. John produces loose, impressionistic style paintings in watercolour.
During this day John will show you ways of using pure watercolour to achieve ‘fast and free’ watercolours.
He will also show you ways of using pen, ink and wash.
It is bound to be an exciting day!
John will provide demonstrations of his style along with one-to-one tuition.
The day will be open all levels of experience, but those with some experience of watercolour or other mediums will probably gain more from it.
John Hoar is one of Britain’s best-known watercolourists who has had over 50 one man shows in England and Ireland. His latest was in China in 2016, when he was invited to represent Britain at the 2nd Qindao International Watercolour Salon.
His work is represented in London by the Llewellyn-Alexander Gallery and in Devon by the Lantic Gallery, Tiverton.
John is well-known for his instructional DVDs – five of which have been produced by Town House Films – which aim to teach aspiring artists how to paint simple and vibrant watercolours. He is an inspiring teacher, much in demand, who directs several residential courses both in Ireland and the UK and holds regular workshops at his home in South Molton, Devon.
Watercolour in the morning.
Ink and wash in the afternoon. £80.
James Tatum SWAc.
The Landscape as Power and Emotion.
17th & 18th October 2026.
This two-day workshop is designed to show students how to use a 3-step process of making paintings to produce more powerful, exciting and coherent
landscape paintings. You will learn how to use the basic tools of structure, composition, space, tone and colour.
This workshop will be a mix of en plein air studies (when weather allows) where James will show you how to collect the information that you need in order to make paintings that will have more emotional content.
Studio work will then include how to simplify the studies you have made and how emphasize the mood and atmosphere of your experience in the landscape. Work will be guided towards finished paintings. You will then be shown how to use the studies that you have produced for you to make your own, authentic and personal response to the landscape.
£140.
Please see James’ website for examples of his work.
Jake Winkle.
Capturing Light in Watercolour. Portraits.
16th November 2026.
Learn how to paint in watercolour with this
well-known and popular artist.
Jake Winkle is a British watercolour artist, based in Dorset, an area that features in his work, and where he regularly runs painting masterclasses. Jake’s art concentrates on dramatic animal watercolours, in a distinctive signature style. His work is inspired by the light and movement of the world around him, and contains a passion and energy that you can’t take your eyes away from. His work is bold, using water and white space to add a translucent quality. Jake Winkle is known for horse racing watercolours as well as his wildlife work. He’s received commendations for numerous awards, including the Daily Mail’s ‘Not the Turner Prize’ in 2004, where he was a finalist. He has completed commissions for The National Trust. He has also made instructional DVD’s and a book, helping aspiring artists to improve their craft. Jake Winkle has released a number of limited edition prints that focus on capturing the speed and grace of different animals. They are framed, mounted and ready for you to enjoy.
On his inspiration, Jake said. ‘I’m inspired by shape, colour, mark-making and movement. I like wildlife because it allows me to explore all of these qualities.’
£80 per day.
Jake Winkle.
Winter Landscape in Watercolour.
17th November 2026.
Learn how to paint in watercolour with this
well-known and popular artist.
Jake Winkle is a British watercolour artist, based in Dorset, an area that features in his work, and where he regularly runs painting masterclasses. Jake’s art concentrates on dramatic animal watercolours, in a distinctive signature style. His work is inspired by the light and movement of the world around him, and contains a passion and energy that you can’t take your eyes away from. His work is bold, using water and white space to add a translucent quality. Jake Winkle is known for horse racing watercolours as well as his wildlife work. He’s received commendations for numerous awards, including the Daily Mail’s ‘Not the Turner Prize’ in 2004, where he was a finalist. He has completed commissions for The National Trust. He has also made instructional DVD’s and a book, helping aspiring artists to improve their craft. Jake Winkle has released a number of limited edition prints that focus on capturing the speed and grace of different animals. They are framed, mounted and ready for you to enjoy.
On his inspiration, Jake said. ‘I’m inspired by shape, colour, mark-making and movement. I like wildlife because it allows me to explore all of these qualities.’
£80 per day.
Jake Winkle.
British Wildlife in Watercolour.
18th November 2026.
Learn how to paint in watercolour with this
well-known and popular artist.
Jake Winkle is a British watercolour artist, based in Dorset, an area that features in his work, and where he regularly runs painting masterclasses. Jake’s art concentrates on dramatic animal watercolours, in a distinctive signature style. His work is inspired by the light and movement of the world around him, and contains a passion and energy that you can’t take your eyes away from. His work is bold, using water and white space to add a translucent quality. Jake Winkle is known for horse racing watercolours as well as his wildlife work. He’s received commendations for numerous awards, including the Daily Mail’s ‘Not the Turner Prize’ in 2004, where he was a finalist. He has completed commissions for The National Trust. He has also made instructional DVD’s and a book, helping aspiring artists to improve their craft. Jake Winkle has released a number of limited edition prints that focus on capturing the speed and grace of different animals. They are framed, mounted and ready for you to enjoy.
On his inspiration, Jake said. ‘I’m inspired by shape, colour, mark-making and movement. I like wildlife because it allows me to explore all of these qualities.’
£80 per day.
Ian Fennelly
Ian Fennell
Ian Fennelly.
Urban Sketching.
January 2027.
Join sketching expert Ian Fennelly for an exciting two days designed to help beginners and aspiring artists overcome challenges such as time constraints, perfectionism and lack of confidence.
Through step-by-step guidance, Ian will teach participants to sketch a stunning scene while developing essential skills like perspective, colour and simplification.
£160.
www.ianfennelly.co.uk
Paula Dunn.
Atmospheric Landscapes.
Spring 2027.
In this experimental 2-day course you will be guided step by step on the methods for building layers of texture, patterns, marks, and colour to form rich, complex foundations to your paintings. We will focus on mark making with drawing materials and explore different ways to create textures, patterns and lines using a variety of tools and solvent reduction techniques.
The workshop will include information about techniques, as well as demonstrations and plenty of time for practice.
- Introduction to using cold wax medium with oils
- Introduction to the tools
- Working wet-on-wet
- Using transparent and opaque colours to create depth and atmosphere.
- Creating textures and lines using a variety of tools and techniques
- Incorporating pigments and loose powders such as marble dust into your work
- Incorporating pigment sticks and oil bars and other drawing mediums
- Blending techniques
- Building layers of texture and patterns
- Solvent reduction techniques
What is cold wax?
Cold wax is a thick buttery medium which when added to your oils will thicken up your paint and speeds up the drying process. It enables you to be more playful and experimental with your painting, whether you like to create thick textural work, wish to embed collage, found objects, or pigments, or like to create depth and atmosphere through the layering of colour.
Is this the right course for me?
This is a standalone workshop so there is no need to have attended any previous workshops. Whether you are a professional artist or haven’t picked up a paint brush since school, absolutely no experience of painting or of working in oils needed. Just come prepared to have fun and to experiment.
£200.
www.pauladunnartist.com
Steve Hall.
Pastel Landscapes
19th to 21st May 2027.
I am delighted to add this new medium to my programme of courses. Following many years painting in watercolour, I now also paint in pastel and enjoy the vibrancy that this exciting new medium has to offer. I exhibit my work at the Bradford Gallery (www.bradfordgallery.co.uk) and, in addition, I am an Associate Artist for Unison Colour and have produced four pastel articles for the Artist magazine.
During this three day studio based course we will examine pastel application techniques, painting surfaces and complete a number of landscape paintings from photographic or sketch reference. The course is suitable for all levels and people wanting to try the medium for the first time are welcome as well as more experienced painters.
Following a half day introduction of materials and techniques we will get straight down to picture making and this will commence with a ‘paint along’ exercise followed by individual work. At the end of the three days it is intended that course members will be able to take away ideas and practices that will aid their progress with this medium.
£220 for three days.
www.stevehallart.co.uk
Steve Hall. Watercolour Landscapes. 9th to 11th June 2027.
Learn from this popular and well-known watercolour artist. With a mixture of demonstrations, en plein air and studio work, Steve will guide you through the completion of two paintings per day.
'Explore all that is good about fresh watercolour. It is to embark on a journey that is unending and at times full of frustration and pitfalls yet, for the determined traveller, one that can be so rewarding.'
£220 for three days.
Catherine Osbond.
Drawing the Human Form.
Summer/Autumn 2026.
A one-day course where you will learn the basics of capturing the human form.
Use of shape, negative shape, line, tone will all be covered.
The cost of a professional Life model is included.
£85.
www.catherineosbond.co.uk
Catherine Osbond. Pen and Wash techniques.
Dates TBA.
Learn various techniques using pen, ink and wash. You will learn a variety of techniques to use with sketching and drawing landscapes.
Traditional and exploratory techniques covered.
£60 for a one day workshop.
www.catherineosbond.co.uk
Catherine Osbond.
Abstraction of the Human Form. Date TBA.
In this workshop we shall be looking at ways to create abstraction of figures. We shall study ways of simplifying images into a series of shapes that still suggest the form.
Some knowledge of figure drawing or painting would be useful.
Not suitable for beginners.
Work will be from photos.
£120 for two days.
www.catherineosbond.co.uk
We have many more exciting workshops to come in 2026.
If you would like to be notified of these, please contact us.
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