This course is intended for students with some experience of producing a painting (perhaps in watercolours, pastels or oils). We will explore observation, imagination, atmosphere and personal response to create explorative and evocative paintings on a reasonably large scale (60cm x 60cm). A basic knowledge of acrylic painting is necessary as this will be an improvers course and focuses on more advanced practical techniques and conceptual awareness. The course includes creating suitable surfaces, exercises in drawing, using pencil & charcoal, painting, use of rags and palette knives. We will explore the transition from representational naturalism to abstract painting. Weather permitting we will be working outside for some of the session, the landscape at Dartington is a short walk away from the studio door. We will also look at the development of formal elements and obscurity in picture making, using imagination, expression and atmosphere.
Course aim
This course will enable learners to develop drawing, painting seacapes in acrylic and build creative thinking.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Prepare a suitable surface on which to begin with a Gesso ground
- Make small drawings from life to use in studio practice
- Use paint, brushes, rags or palette knife where appropriate
- Evolve some conceptual development or technique which furthers an aspect of your personal style
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
- You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions
What else do I need to know?
- A selection of materials and basic equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring additional materials with you
- It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)
- Zinc & Titanium white*, Cobalt blue*, Cadmium Yellow*, Cadmium orange*, Yellow ochre*, Cadmium red*, Alizarin crimson*, Viridian green*, Dioxazine purple* Large drawing pad* White Gesso* Charcoal sticks*
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- A booklist for research will be available but is not required reading to start the course, research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful.
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- You could progress to Higher Education courses. Follow link to the PEARL website for information http://pearl.open.ac.uk/
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
Download full Course information sheet
