Experiment with the flexibility of watercolour and discover its expressive potential.
Watercolour is often considered tricky and technique-led, but this need not be the case. This materials-based and ideas-led course will help us to become comfortable in experimenting with watercolour in a relaxed and supportive environment.
We’ll use a range of materials, including watercolour, gouache, inks, gum arabic and resists to create lively images filled with expressive mark-making and texture. As well as paintbrushes, we’ll experiment with unconventional painting tools such as card, sponges and clingfilm to striking, and often unexpected, effect.
There will also be a number of short field trips to nearby locations, giving us the chance to gather research sketches which will inform studies and more resolved pieces back in the studio.
Throughout the week, we’ll look at the work of artists such as Ruth Asawa, David Hockney and Marlene Dumas, as well as examples from maps and diagrams. These references will help strengthen our understanding of how water-based media can be used in contemporary art and in more functional contexts.
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