Ref: SWE42035
Pastels are an ideal medium for producing atmospheric and evocative effects and these shall be explored to the full. This course examines the basic principles of drawing in soft pastels and you will investigate the various techniques that can be employed in their use.
Pastel is a versatile medium that can be used to create detailed drawings, as well as lively and spontaneous paintings. We will focus on landscapes in our paintings but may also include some other elements. Colour harmony and composition will feature strongly in your investigation of this exciting medium.
On the first evening, you will be taken through some simple exercises using the medium.
You will be shown several established techniques, including blending, layering, scumbling, glazing and hatching. There are no hard and fast rules covering the use of soft pastels but there are some techniques that work better than others. Different materials available will be discussed and how they can be used to best effect. You will also be shown the best ways in which pastel paintings can be protected and framed. There will be several paintings on display, in a wide range of styles and techniques to inspire you. There will also be demonstrations throughout the weekend, and you can be assured of plenty of individual attention.
At the end of the course, you will be equipped with the skills and techniques needed to produce some exciting work, and the confidence to use what you have learned when producing further paintings of your own.
Most art materials and reference images will be provided, but you are welcome to bring along any of your favourite materials and images that you would like to work from.
On this course the College will supply most of the materials, including: Soft pastels
Pastel paper and card Fixative A putty rubber Craft knife Paper stump Masking tape
Baby wipes, paper towel or tissues, and some old clothing
A good variety of art materials are available to buy at the Garden's Gatehouse Shop.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day - first date of course
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
Student welcome, followed by dinner: 6.45pm (dinner included)
Teaching session: 8pm-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 (lunch included)
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 - last date of course
Course teaching: 9.15am-3pm (lunch included)
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.
Kevin trained at Wimbledon School of Art and is an experienced artist and tutor. He is the author of several books on painting and writes regular articles for ‘The Artist’, and ‘Artist & Illustrators’ magazines. He is an elected and active member of the Oxford Art Society.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.
