Lettering & Calligraphy - All Levels
Lettering & Calligraphy – Formal and Modern Script
This course will introduce students to the traditional forms of a script of your choice. The course will cover script analysis, exploration of different inks, pens and papers. For improvers and advanced students the course will offer a deeper understanding of a script structure, script variations and flourishes to produce a wide range of effects.
Drawing from Scratch
The course will give you a general introduction to drawing. The emphasis will be on observational drawing and you will be taught how to observe and record line and tone using a range of materials. You will also be introduced to different mark-making techniques and elements of composition as well as exploring creative ways of using materials and techniques.
Watercolour, Acrylic & Inks
This course will enable you to experiment with a variety of water-based mediums, exploring different approaches to both drawing and painting. Subjects and styles will be investigated to stimulate your ideas as well as discussions on artists whose work may relate to particular projects. You will be encouraged to develop a personal approach to making art that is both creative, informed and imaginative.
Painting & Drawing
This structured course aims to give you a basic knowledge of the language of painting and drawing through composed exercises.
Themes vary a little each term so you can practice, improve and develop your skills whilst investigating new subjects. Subjects include mostly still life, some portraiture and some landscape (Summer term, weather permitting). See more below.
You will practice drawing from observation - learning ?how to look? using simple measuring techniques aimed at developing your confidence, then applying these skills in your own individual interests and creativity.
You will learn how to plan a composition with the help of a viewfinder- finding an exciting layout through preliminary studies
You will study colour theory and colour mixing, palette management, and a variety of painting techniques
The course will include a mini exhibition at the end of each session giving you the opportunity to discuss your work and give and receive group feedback in a relaxed studio atmosphere.
You will explore and respond to images and re-creations inspired by artists of today. You will develop an appreciation of fine art.
You can develop and interpret the different subjects in your own way. Your course tutor will guide you through each session and recommend strategies and approaches to achieve your aims.
You will respond to new, exciting and sometimes unusual subjects. You will be encouraged to try out various methods, styles and different ways to approach painting.
Portraiture - Intermediate
This painting course is for students with some experience of observational drawing who would like to paint portraits. Working from models, both male and female, you will hone your drawing skills and use them to develop your portrait painting techniques.You will learn how to enlarge and transfer your drawings onto canvas; using oil paint, you will learn about colour, what colours to use, and how to arrange them on your palette; you will learn how to intermix colours and how to apply them to the canvas. By the end of term you will have begun to develop sound and practical painting and drawing methods.
Themed Figure Drawing & Painting - All Levels
Working from the life model you will explore a range of materials and approaches. You will be introduced to different ways of using line, tone and colour to make various drawings and paintings to help understand form and space.
You will learn strategies to help you draw the figure more accurately from observation and/or expressively using a variety of drawing materials.
Photoshop for Photographers - Beginners
Do you love photography, but feel you don't currently have the skills to edit your images in Photoshop? Look no further!
This is an in-depth introduction to Adobe Photoshop CS. You will learn about the most commonly used commands and techniques to improve your photographs now and in the future.
Digital Photography - The Basics
If you are looking for an informative guide on how to use your DSLR camera, bring it along to this comprehensive introduction. Over a term you will become increasingly familiar with the various settings on your camera equipment.
Our course is designed to give you a better understanding of what your camera can do and how to do it. The introduction covers the basic controls, making you more confident with the camera, while also illustrating and putting into practice what effect these controls have on the photograph.
This course is geared towards getting you more comfortable and confident with the apparatus you have, and ultimately taking more satisfying and considered photographs.
How to Use Your Sewing Machine - Beginners
Are you too nervous to start using your sewing machine? Don't worry, we can show you the basics!
You can bring in your own sewing machine, or learn how to use one of our Berninas. You'll be shown how to do the basics, and also progress onto different techniques using some more unusual feet attachments on a sewing machine.
Clothesmaking - Absolute Beginners
Have you always wanted to make your own clothes?
On our exciting, practical course you will become confident in making garments to fit. You will learn how to use the sewing machine other tools to their best potential.
If you are a total beginner, you'll reach a high level of competence by following a group project using a commercial pattern, plus choosing fabrics that compliment you.
If you have a little clothesmaking experience, you will have the opportunity to join in with the group project or work on your own project, and to learn the skills necessary to refit and restyle purchased garments.
If you are an intermediate/ advanced level clothesmaker, you should enrol on one of our Intermediate – Advanced courses to get the best learning experience.
