Painting Techniques, Materials and Methods

About this course

The course examines traditional and contemporary approaches to painting across oil, water-based and mixed-media materials. Learners develop ideas through thumbnail sketches and sketchbook work, then select suitable methods for larger paintings and project pieces. Guided activities include working from still life and a clothed model, with opportunities to interpret subjects from representational to abstract viewpoints. Teaching combines practical exploration, group discussion and individual guidance. Learners also use Moodle resources and maintain a record of their investigations, while landscape and cityscape work may form part of the course. There is no formal assessment, but progress is reviewed through the practical work.

What you'll learn

• Use thumbnail sketches and sketchbook studies to generate and develop painting ideas
• Select painting approaches, techniques and materials suited to a particular subject or idea
• Apply a range of oil, water-based, mixed-media, drawing and painting methods
• Investigate how different media and tools affect the physical qualities of a painting
• Develop individual ways of interpreting subjects and discuss completed work within the group

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at intermediate level or above who already have some painting skills and want to extend their existing practice. The level suggests work beyond fundamental techniques, but the source does not state a specific prerequisite. Learners should be aged 19 or over by 31 August before the course starts.

• Learning is developed through practical projects, guided activities and discussion of work produced in the group
• There is no formal assessment; individual goals and progress are considered through the practical classes