Ceramics Throwing Advanced Masterclass with Emma Johnstone
This masterclass course is designed to give you the opportunity to spend an extended time each week working on your own throwing projects. The class is longer than the normal, giving you the time to practice and hone your throwing skills. You will be supported and guided by your tutor, who is an experienced and professional potter. You can work on your own ideas or be inspired by a variety of projects suggested by your tutor.
Emma Johnstone is a London-based contemporary ceramicist skilled in throwing, decorating techniques and the dramatic firing process of raku.
Ceramics Handbuilding & Throwing - All Levels
This is a general ceramics course which covers most methods of making pots including throwing on the potter's wheel. Interspersed with this, you will learn several decorating and firing techniques.
Figurative Life Sculpture
"The course will introduce you to figurative and portraiture techniques in clay, working from observation using a life model each week. You will have the opportunity to explore traditional and experimental approaches to modelling.
The course encourages personal development and has a strong emphasis on exploration of materials and surface finishes. Instruction is designed for beginners or those with a little experience. You will be taught by a mixture of whole and small class presentation, demonstration as well as individual tuition as you work on your pieces. You will start by drawing from observation and explore the work of other contemporary and historical artists as references inspired by the figure.
During the term you will work on a few set poses for different lengths of time, and develop ideas using clay to create textured surfaces, use wire armatures, and experiment with finishes to create tonal effects."
Woodwork - Beginners/Improvers
This course will give students a thorough grounding in the practice and theory of woodwork, the emphasis being largely on practical work. The correct application and use of hand and power tools is covered in detail and students will be encouraged to design and make an original piece of work.
Bookbinding Workshop - Intermediate
Come along to our Bookbinding Workshop to spend some quality time working on your bookbinding or book conservation projects.
This is a lovely, welcoming intermediate group with some learners who have been attending for many years, and some newer to the college.
Please note that this is an Untutored Workshop, so this is for experienced bookbinders who can work on their own projects. There will be a tutor available to offer technical advice and keep an eye on health and safety in the room, but they will not be teaching the class.
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 fun exercises in a relaxed studio atmosphere.
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 course content below.
Your course tutor will guide you through each session and recommend strategies and approaches to achieve your aims and she will share her experiences and tips with you.
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 friendly environment. You will feel proud of your achievements whatever your level.
You will explore and respond to images and re-creations inspired by artists of today. You will develop an appreciation of fine art.
Oil Painting Restoration
The course will cover all aspects of oil painting conservation for beginners and continuing students will be able to build on previously acquired knowledge
Various restoration techniques will be covered. Students will be able to learn new skills as well as consolidate their existing knowledge of oil painting restoration techniques. The teaching will essentially be based on students’ personal projects (you will work on your damaged painting), but some lectures and practical exercises will be given by the Tutor.
