On this course, you will create small vibrant abstract or semi-abstract drawings and paintings, experimenting with ideas derived from exercises set by the tutor. The emphasis will be on experimentation and moving easily from depicting everyday objects to creating colourful abstract designs.

Using images supplied by your tutor, the course will begin with a series of quick exercises, as ways into abstraction, to work up ideas. You will explore colour, shape and pattern to create a host of inspirational motifs that can be transcribed as part of your design.

Exploring collage, drawing and painting - with the opportunity to draw and paint on a variety of materials from paper and cardboard to old book covers - you will work from your imagination, as well as taking inspiration from the stunning surroundings at West Dean. Group exercises will be followed by further guidance and one-to-one support, as well as group discussions.

By the end of the course, you will have a good understanding of the mechanics and motivation that go into making abstract work, as well as the tools to go on and develop the themes explored. You will come away with at least two completed paintings, as well as a multitude of new ideas and a decent pile of drawings and collages to use as inspiration towards future works.

Included

On this course, the tutor will supply a selection of materials to share amongst the group, including two prepared book covers per person, paper, cardboard, a selection of acrylic paint to try out on your book covers, pH neutral adhesive, satin acrylic varnish, inks, coloured pencils, marker pens and collage material.

What students need to bring

Please bring a selection of paper-based drawing, painting and collage materials you enjoy working with, including one or two pieces of sturdy cardboard (cut from a cardboard box) around A4 and A3 size.

Important: please bring a selection of different-sized brushes that you are happy to use with acrylic paint – small for fine work and fatter for covering larger areas – and a palette that can be used with acrylic paint to paint your book covers.

Available to buy

Available from shop: A good selection of art materials, such as drawing and painting materials, and equipment including a good variety of brushes

Additional information

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

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

Terms & Conditions