Led by Harsh Agrawal, the course focuses on learning how to see beyond the surface and interpret places, moments and memories through paint. Working from references and where possible real-life students will learn how to analyse scenes, identify their emotional core and take artistic liberties to make their own composition for impact.

Participants will explore how to move, simplify or reimagine elements within a scene; adjusting architecture, figures, light and spatial relationships to create more compelling visual stories. Emphasis is placed on developing confidence in making creative decisions rather than copying reference material.

Alongside this conceptual design, the course provides practical guidance on brushing up on essential watercolour techniques, including washes, glazing, edge control, and expressive brushwork. These skills will be applied directly in support of each student’s chosen scene.

The first day centres on observation, composition, and preparatory studies, helping students develop strong foundations for their final work. The second day focuses on refining technique and completing a resolved painting that reflects their personal vision!

Through demonstrations, guided exercises and individual feedback, participants will learn to create watercolours that are not only technically accomplished, but fun to paint and emotionally engaging

Included

On this course the College will supply all/most/some of the materials including

• A variety of high-quality watercolour paints
• Paintbrushes
• Cold-press or rough paper

What students need to bring

• 2-4 Reference images of places, landscapes, urban scenes or ideas ( they don't have to be well composed) -Watercolor painting kit. The College will provide a range of paint and brushes but please do bring your preferred kit -Pencil & rough sketchbook

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Student registration: 10.30am - 11am
Course teaching: 11am – 5.15pm 
Morning session: 11am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions