Using memory, imagination, literature and everyday observation, explore how initial ideas can be developed into a resolved narrative painting.
Throughout the course, we’ll take inspiration from artists who use storytelling: the cinematic atmospheres of Peter Doig, the theatrical worlds of Paula Rego, the surreal spaces of Neo Rauch and the historically rooted work of Lubaina Himid, to name a few.
We’ll begin with quick drawing tasks from memory, dreams or literature, then move into collage - combining images, text and found material to create new visual ideas. We’ll explore different compositions of the same narratives and develop drawings from these scenes.
There will be an emphasis on exploring tone and colour. Through monochromatic studies, warm and cool contrasts, symbolic colour and layering paint, we’ll learn how mood and meaning can be created within a painting. We’ll then spend the remainder of the course working on a resolved final painting.
By the end of the week, we’ll have learnt how to create original narrative ideas, experiment confidently, and use composition, tone and colour as storytelling devices.
All core materials and equipment included. Concession rates are available for those in receipt of income-assessed benefits.
NB: The course culminates in an informal exhibition of the week’s work, ending at 5.30pm on the final day.
Early Booking discount ends Tuesday 31st March 2026