Japanese - Introduction
You will have completed our Japanese introduction course (10 weeks) or equivalent. You have Hiragana knowledge and vocabulary for shopping including numbers. You will extend your vocabulary while starting to learn how to use verbs in present and past tense. You will learn how to read and understand Katakana characters, and to communicate in everyday situations. The course will also develop your understanding of Japanese culture further, with an introduction to Japanese etiquette and customs. The sessions are very interactive and engaging, so come prepared to join in and have some fun!
Creative Glass Masterclass with Monette Larsen
This course seeks to broaden the range and enhance the palette of techniques of the kilnforming glassmaker and to encourage the development of a strong personal style.
With a workshop approach you will be encouraged to pursue your own ideas in kilnformed glass with tutor guidance. Research into other areas of art and design is strongly encouraged for inspiration and to develop a greater understanding of the work in its contemporary and historical context.
Creative Glass - Beginners
This course aims to give you the basic skills, knowledge and ability to create kilnformed glass, using a variety of kiln forming techniques. This course is an ideal starter for those wanting to develop onto one of our more advanced glass courses, or to just find out a bit more about glass making.
Ceramics Handbuilding and 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 - Beginners
"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."
Please note on this course you will be drawing or painting from a nude model.
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.
Lettering and 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 and 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 and 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.
What will I achieve?
At the end of the course, you will have gained a good insight into various drawing and painting methods and techniques and how they can be used. You will develop a working methodology and be able to develop your own interpretation of a subject. You will be able to adapt methods used in class in your future works.