Ways into landscape painting

About this course

Participants will make a series of landscape studies in outdoor and studio settings, exploring light, space, mass, colour and composition. Work may begin from direct observation, painted studies and photographs, with short demonstrations, handouts, one-to-one guidance and group discussion supporting development. The course considers approaches used by historical and contemporary landscape artists, while allowing participants to test different scales, surfaces, materials and methods of application in their own compositions.

What you'll learn

• Develop landscape imagery through a range of painting approaches
• Explore compositional and colour choices in response to a specific place
• Apply painting methods using different scales and surfaces
• Identify approaches used by historical and contemporary landscape artists
• Make informed choices about materials and methods of application

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for improvers with some basic painting skills, as well as more experienced painters developing their landscape work. Experience of drawing from observation and a basic understanding of colour mixing would be useful. Participation includes outdoor and studio work, demonstrations, individual guidance and group discussion.

• Some basic painting skills are expected for the intended level
• Observational drawing experience and basic colour-mixing knowledge would be useful
• Learners should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations and health and safety information
• The course involves taking part in group discussions and making practical studies outside the studio

Before you go

• Basic materials and resources, including paint, brushes and paper appropriate to the medium, are provided.
• Learners may bring additional specialist materials, including a sketchbook.