Creative Watercolour

About this course

The course develops watercolour practice through exercises in colour theory, observational drawing and painting, abstraction, expressive methods and mixed media. Participants investigate colour mixing, composition, proportion, tonality and the behaviour of water in washes and effects, alongside techniques including wet-in-wet, wet-on-dry, glazing and resist methods. Teaching combines demonstrations, guided practical work, individual verbal feedback and group critiques. Learners also examine historical and contemporary artists’ work and create a Personal Learning Plan to focus their studies.

What you'll learn

• Apply wet-in-wet, wet-on-dry, wash, glazing and resist techniques
• Mix and use colour with an understanding of hue, value and saturation
• Develop observational drawings and paintings using line, shape, proportion, composition and tonality
• Combine watercolour with drawing and other mixed-media approaches
• Use watercolour flow to create washes, textures and expressive effects

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners developing beyond fundamental art-materials knowledge and is labelled Improver. It includes individual practical work, tutor feedback and group critiques, so participants should be prepared to discuss work in a class setting. Learners must be aged 19 or over on 31 August before the course starts.

• Some prior knowledge of art materials, tools and techniques is required
• The course includes informal group critiques at the end of each session

Before you go

• Bring an A4 sketchbook, pencil, charcoal and kneadable putty eraser.
• Paper can be purchased during the lesson with cash.
• Coloured pastel or water-based paints may be needed for later sessions; the tutor will advise during the first session.