Watercolours For Beginners (CORNWALL) £225pp
Jul
26
to 27 Jul

Watercolours For Beginners (CORNWALL) £225pp

 

DON’T BE SHY!
So many people want to learn watercolour but are too scared to start. Is this you?

Well, that’s exactly why I’m here. I specialise in making watercolour simple, fun, and exciting. My husband Nigel (who manages our art gallery) says that if I were a football player, I’d be Premier League — but we’re still working on the equivalent in watercolour teaching!

You’ll learn how to:

  • Choose the best materials to make your painting easier

  • Understand how much water your watercolour really needs

  • Mix gorgeous, juicy colours using just three tubes of paint

  • Use one basic brush to create a whole range of brush strokes (this makes things SO much easier!)

  • Master “Wet in Wet” and “Transparent Layers” — the foundation stones of watercolour — and understand why they matter and how to use them with confidence

Sarah is a great teacher - patient and clear and she makes watercolour painting seem so simple. It’s so relaxing learning with her.
— Suzie B

What You’ll Paint:

  • A colour mixing wheel

  • A juicy pear using wet-in-wet technique

  • A simple landscape using transparent glazes

  • Some easy skies

You’ll also take home my all-important multi-page handout to remind you of everything you’ve learned — including a handy colour mixing reference chart — plus your paintings and, most importantly, a really good understanding of watercolour basics and the confidence to continue painting at home.

(And just between us — even students who’ve painted in watercolours for years have found this course to be a total revelation. Whether it’s learning how to mix colours more confidently, improving brush technique, or simply getting re-inspired to paint again — it’s a real game-changer.)

Oh, and did I mention? It’s just so much fun. I don’t know why, but my workshops always attract the loveliest people!


What’s Included:

  • Over 30 years of Sarah’s watercolour experience — priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment, including paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. (No need to bring or buy anything)

  • An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

  • Basic tea and coffee (If you drink exotic teas or use non-dairy milk, please bring your own)

  • A list of the exact materials we use so you know what to get later — without buying unnecessary extras

  • Lots of fun and laughter, alongside expert tuition

What’s Not Included:

  • Accommodation (I can email you a list of lovely local places to stay)

  • Lunch – please bring a packed lunch each day or head to a nearby food shop at lunch

  • Car Parking - The closest long stay parking is at the Harbourside Car Park (TR18 2GB)


Course Info:

Length: 2 Days (10:00am – 4:00pm each day)
Fee: £225
Location: The Union Hotel, Chapel Street, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 4AE

Limited to 12 students – spaces fill quickly, so book early!

 
 
View Event →
Share
Shoreline Treasures (Cornwall) £225pp
Aug
16
to 17 Aug

Shoreline Treasures (Cornwall) £225pp

SHORELINE TREASURES WORKSHOP

A 2-Day Studio-Based Watercolour Experience

Imagine spending two creative, calming days in a beautiful Cornish studio, surrounded by collected treasures from the sea — pebbles, shells, seaweed, driftwood and more. We’ll begin by gently observing these natural objects, tuning into their colours, textures, and tiny details — before gradually exploring them through a series of relaxed, guided sketching and painting exercises.

This is how my Shoreline Treasures workshop begins — and you’ll love being introduced to the way an artist looks and sees, all from the comfort of our peaceful studio space.

No beach walking needed — everything we need will be in the studio for you to enjoy at your own pace. You’ll still get all the inspiration of the Cornish coast, just without needing to head outdoors.

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

All abilities, including complete beginners. The group size is a maximum of 8 people so I can work with you at your own level.

Note: If you haven’t painted in watercolour I would recommend my on-demand watercolour for beginners course which takes you through the basic techniques so you’re prepared for this shoreline treasures workshop. If you join this course, I can send you a 50% code for you to use on the online beginners course. Just send me an email if this is something you’d like.

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

OVER THE TWO DAYS YOU’LL LEARN:

  • Easy ways to sketch natural objects confidently and expressively

  • How to mix watercolour from just three colours

  • Simple techniques to draw the shapes and proportions of seashells, seaweed, pebbles and other shoreline treasures

  • How to use light and shadow to make your paintings look real and three-dimensional

  • Which essential materials you’ll need to continue sketching and painting at home or outdoors

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

  • Two full days of tuition with Sarah, who brings over thirty years of art teaching experience

  • All your art materials and equipment: watercolour paper, paint colours, brushes, palettes, boards, and more

  • A printed handout to take home, with reminders of the techniques and exercises

  • Tea and coffee provided (feel free to bring your own favourite blend or milk alternative)

  • A friendly, supportive atmosphere with lots of one-to-one help

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

  • Accommodation (I can email you a list of lovely local places to stay)

  • Lunch – please bring a packed lunch each day or head to a nearby food shop at lunch

  • Car Parking - The closest long stay parking is at the Harbourside Car Park (TR18 2GB)

COURSE DETAILS:

Length: 2 Days (10:00am – 4:00pm each day)
Fee: £225
Location: The Union Hotel, Chapel Street, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 4AE

Limited to 12 students – spaces fill quickly, so book early!

View Event →
Share
 Super Simple Sketching (Cornwall) £225pp
Sept
27
to 28 Sept

Super Simple Sketching (Cornwall) £225pp

Rediscover Your Inner Artist – No Paint Required

This gentle, beginner-friendly workshop is designed especially for adults who want to start sketching again (or for the very first time!). You’ll learn how to keep things simple, loosen up your lines, and create expressive, beautiful sketches using just a biro and a few Inktense watercolour pencils — no paint, no fuss, just creativity. 

Sarah will be sharing her signature sketching techniques that she'll be exclusively showcasing in a series of articles for Leisure Painter from October 2025. 

Whether it’s been decades since you last drew, or you’ve always told yourself “I can’t sketch,” this course will help you feel confident and inspired to pick up a pen and give it a go.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Which simple tools make sketching easier and more enjoyable

  • How to sketch confidently (even if you think you “can’t draw”)

  • How to create expressive linework and simple shadows

  • Ways to simplify what you see — and leave out the rest!

  • Easy techniques for using Inktense pencils and a water barrel brush to add gentle colour and movement

  • How to add depth and a sense of space using minimal materials

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What You’ll Create:

  • A range of relaxed sketches, from still life to landscape

  • Colourful, loose pieces using just a few Inktense watercolour pencils

  • A sketchbook full of inspiration and progress to take home

We'll be working from Sarah’s photos in the studio — no need to be outdoors or worry about what to draw!

What’s Included:

  • Two days of expert tuition and guidance from Sarah (30+ years’ teaching experience)

  • All sketching materials: a sketchbook, Inktense pencils, water barrel brush, biro, paper, and boards

  • Printed handout with reminders, tips, and ideas

  • Tea and coffee provided (feel free to bring your favourite milk or brew)

What’s Not Included:

  • Accommodation (I can email you a list of lovely local places to stay)

  • Lunch – please bring a packed lunch each day or head to a nearby food shop at lunch

  • Car Parking - The closest long stay parking is at the Harbourside Car Park (TR18 2GB)

Payment Info:

Length: 2 Days (10:00am – 4:00pm each day)
Course Fee: £225
Location: The Union Hotel, Chapel Street, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 4AE

Limited to 12 students – spaces fill quickly, so book early!

 
View Event →
Share

Painting and Drawing Trees £49 (HALF DAY, PENZANCE)
Mar
23
10:00 am10:00

Painting and Drawing Trees £49 (HALF DAY, PENZANCE)

 

Simple secrets to help you paint convincing trees…

Do you despair of knowing how to draw and paint trees? Do your trees look messy and formless, ramrod straight, or just flat?

I have some simple secrets to share with you that will amaze you: in just three hours you’ll understand how do it! With frequent demonstrations, step by step painting with me, and your questions answered you’ll leave this workshop feeling so much more confident to experiment with watercolour trees independently.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

  • What the basic structure of trees is, whatever its shape

  • How to simplify the basic shapes of trees (and not get distracted by confusing detail

  • How to draw a “winter tree”: the trunk and just the bare branches that for the basic structure

  • How you can then “put the clothes on a “winter tree” to make it a “Summer tree”

  • How to manipulate light and shadow to make your tree look full and 3 Dimensional

  • Guidance on how to mix authentic tree colours

  • How to paint your tree in the beautiful (and speedy) Wet-in-Wet technique

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing! 
— KIRSTY

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Hot drinks (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or

  • use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along.

AND WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • Accommodation (I can email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

Painting and Drawing Trees

Course Length: Half Day: 10 AM -1 PM

Course Fee: £49

Painting and Drawing Trees 23.03.25
£49.00

FANCY MAKING A WEEKEND OF IT?

The perfect partner to Painting Trees is the preceding day’s Watercolour Landscapes for Beginners full-day workshop on Saturday, 22 March, 10 am - 4 pm, £99.

 
View Event →
Share
Simple Watercolour Landscapes £99 (FULL DAY, PENZANCE)
Mar
22
10:00 am10:00

Simple Watercolour Landscapes £99 (FULL DAY, PENZANCE)

 

Do you wonder where on earth do you start with a Watercolour Landscape painting?

If you feel a little overwhelmed at the thought of tackling a landscape, let me simplify it

all for you…

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

  • How to create a sense of distance

  • What to focus on (and what to leave out,) to create an atmospheric watercolour landscape

  • Which colours can push the distance away and bring the foreground forward

  • How to paint a smooth wash for a clear blue sky

  • How to paint a cloudy sky with wet in wet technique

  • how to create distant hills

  • how to confidently use Wet-in-Wet, and Transparent Glazes techniques: the two most important techniques to paint a good landscape

You’ll paint two small landscapes on this workshop, and with all the demonstrations, explanations, and your questions answered you’ll leave this workshop feeling so much more confident to experiment with watercolour landscapes at home.

“I hadn’t picked up a paintbrush for many years, but with Sarah’s clear instructions and a lot of laughs I produced a painting that I was proud of!”
— HEATHER

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Thirty years of Sarah’s watercolour painting experience: priceless!

  • All the art materials and equipment you’ll need

  • A list of the exact art materials we use

  • A handout of handy tips and tricks for landscape painting

  • Hot drinks and biscuits

AND NOT INCLUDED

  • Accommodation

  • Lunch (please bring a packed lunch.)

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

Simple Watercolour Landscapes

COURSE LENGTH: 1 DAY: 10 AM -4 PM

Course Fee: £99

Simple Watercolour Landscapes 22.03.25
£99.00

Want to learn even more in this one weekend?

Join us for another half-day follow-on workshop “Drawing and Painting Trees” on Sunday 23rd March, 10 am -1 pm, £49.

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Pencils £49 ( HALF DAY, PENZANCE,CORNWALL)
Mar
9
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Pencils £49 ( HALF DAY, PENZANCE,CORNWALL)

 

TIPS FOR USING THE AMAZING DERWENT INKTENSE PENCILS TO ADD VIBRANT, FLUID COLOUR TO YOUR SKETCHES.

You’ll learn colour mixing, blending, washes, and how to use a “waterbrush” so you don’t need a bottle of water. This is SUCH a useful (and easy) workshop! 

Discovering a new way to use Inktense Pencils (which I’ll share with you,) completely transformed the way I sketch both indoors and outdoors. It’s so quick, simple and colourful, and the whole kit for doing watercolour sketches is so minimal and mess free compared to traditional watercolours. You’ll find it an absolute revelation, and it’s suitable for any level of experience (including absolutely no experience of art at all…)

A perfect complement to the Saturday Sketchbooks Workshop, or as a stand-alone workshop in itself.

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing! 
— KIRSTY

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Hot drinks (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or

  • use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along.

    AND WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • Accommodation (I can email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

WATERCOLOUR PENCILS

COURSE LENGTH: 1 DAY: 10 AM -1 PM

Course Fee: £49

WATERCOLOUR PENCILS 09.03.25
£49.00

(WANT TO FILL YOUR WHOLE WEEKEND WITH ART-FILLED FUN? CHECK OUT MY FULL-DAY SKETCHBOOK WORKSHOP ON SATURDAY 8 FEBRUARY.)

 
View Event →
Share
Sketching for Beginners £99 (FULL DAY, PENZANCE)
Mar
8
10:00 am10:00

Sketching for Beginners £99 (FULL DAY, PENZANCE)

 

CAN’T DRAW FOR TOFFEE?

Let me show you how some simple, fun drawing-and-looking exercises can really help you understand how to start sketching: in just one day. My artist dad taught me how to sketch on the Pennine moors when I was just 11 years old. What a precious gift… And for years now I’ve been teaching people just like you how to simplify and sketch what they see and transforming their confidence in drawing. If you feel a little overwhelmed at the thought of sketching, I can show you what to do first, last, and what to do in the middle bit. Imagine a future where you can just settle down for ten minutes, or a whole afternoon, and capture the essence of what you see.

You’ll be able to pack a little sketchbook

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

  • How to simplify what you see: sketching is just creating a quick and simple impression of something (not a super-detailed and precise drawing

  • Which drawing tools make sketching easier for beginners

  • How light and shadows work, and how they can give your sketches an impression of depth

  • What viewfinders are, and how to use them to reduce all that information in front of you and find the best view.

  • How to make things appear to be close-up or far away to create a sense of distance

Sarah is a great teacher, patient, funny and very talented. She is generous with her
time and attention and always makes you feel good about what you produce.
— Carol Plumidge

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All the art materials and equipment you’ll need

  • A sketchbook to take home

  • A handout of handy tips and tricks for sketching

  • Hot drinks and biscuits

AND NOT INCLUDED

  • ACCOMMODATION                                                          

  • CAR PARKING                   

  • LUNCH. (PLEASE BRING ALONG A PACKED LUNCH)

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

Sketching for Beginners

COURSE LENGTH: 1 DAY: 10 AM --4 PM

Course Fee: £99

P.S. Want to fill another weekend with art-filled fun?

… Add colour to your sketches with Magic Watercolour Pencils Half Day morning workshop on Sunday 9 March, 10am -1pm, £49.

 
View Event →
Share
Colour Mixing Magic £49 (HALF DAY, PENZANCE)
Feb
23
10:00 am10:00

Colour Mixing Magic £49 (HALF DAY, PENZANCE)

 

Imagine feeling Colour Confident!

Do you feel like you can mix any colour as long as it’s mud?

Watercolour mixing can be a real struggle for many people even if they’ve been painting for years. This mini workshop has been a revelation for hundreds of people like you. Over the years I’ve developed a super-simple colour mixing system that I use in every painting I sell in my art gallery, and once I share my colour mixing secrets with you, you’ll never look back.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

  • The exact three colours to use so you can easily mix both vibrant and muted colours

  • how to mix gorgeous, subtle greys,

  • how to banish muddy tones forever,

  • how to keep your colours glowing and transparent on your paper

  • how to lighten or darken your colours without using white or black paint

  • the secret colour combinations that really sing when used together in a painting.

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so you feel confident that you can actually paint …and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Useful handouts with essential tips

  • Hot drinks and biscuits 

AND NOT INCLUDED

  • ACCOMMODATION                                                          

  • CAR PARKING                   

  • LUNCH. (PLEASE BRING ALONG A PACKED LUNCH)

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

Colour Mixing Magic

COURSE LENGTH: 1 DAY: 10 AM --1 PM

Course Fee: £49

COLOUR MIXING MAGIC 23.02.25
£49.00

P.S. Want to fill another weekend with art-filled fun?

Check out my Full Day Sketching Workshop on Saturday 8 March.

Followed by Magic Watercolour Pencils on Sunday 9 March.

View Event →
Share
Sold Out: Watercolours For Beginners £99 (PENZANCE)
Feb
22
10:00 am10:00

Sold Out: Watercolours For Beginners £99 (PENZANCE)

 

DO YOU REALLY WANT TO LEARN WATERCOLOUR BUT ARE JUST TOO SCARED, OR DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START?

WELL, THAT’S WHY I’M HERE: I SPECIALISE IN MAKING WATERCOLOURS SIMPLE BUT EXCITING!

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

How to make your painting so much easier by choosing the right art materials

The best brush to buy, and exactly how to use it to create so many different brush marks and special effects

The precise amount of water to add to your paint to really let it flow…

How to get the most out of a modest little paint box

How to reverse watercolour mistakes as easily as clicking the “erase button on your laptop!

How to paint the easiest background ever and create an exquisite little watercolour painting “Wet in Wet” technique of a pear to take home with you.

Sarah is a great teacher - patient and clear and she makes watercolour painting seem so simple. It’s so relaxing learning with her.
— Suzie B

WHAT’S INCLUDED

· MORE THAN THIRTY YEARS OF SARAH’S WATERCOLOUR EXPERIENCE. PRICELESS!

· ALL YOUR ART MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT INCLUDING

WATERCOLOUR PAPER, WATERCOLOURS, BRUSHES,

PALETTES, BOARDS, ETC. NO NEED TO BRING OR BUY ANYTIING.

· AN ESSENTIAL HANDOUT OF MY WATERCOLOUR TIPS AND TRICKS

· HOT DRINKS AND BISCUITS

· A LIST OF THE EXACT MATERIALS WE USE

· LOTS OF FUN AND LAUGHTER

 

AND NOT INCLUDED?

ACCOMMODATION                                                           

CAR PARKING                   

LUNCH. (PLEASE BRING ALONG A PACKED LUNCH)

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

WATERCOLOUR FOR BEGINNERS DAY £99

COURSE LENGTH: 1 DAY: 10-4 PM

Course Fee: £99

(SKYROCKET YOUR LEARNING WITH WATERCOLOURS BY ADDING THE FOLLOWING DAYS: COLOUR MIXING MAGIC HALF DAY WORKSHOP, £49PP, ON SUNDAY 23RD FEBRUARY).

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Botanicals: Leaves, Wreaths and Winter Berries  £45pp (Penzance, Cornwall)
Nov
24
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Botanicals: Leaves, Wreaths and Winter Berries £45pp (Penzance, Cornwall)

 

 A lovely half-day workshop where you’ll learn how to paint leaves with just a few simple brush strokes, then build on that to create simple festive wreaths and the brightest shiny berries to create your own watercolour botanicals. Great for Christmas Cards! 

 A perfect compliment to the Saturday Watercolour Flowers Workshop, or as a stand-alone workshop in itself. 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: HALF DAY DAYS 10-1 PM

(WANT TO FILL YOUR WHOLE WEEKEND WITH EVEN MORE ART-FILLED FUN? CHECK OUT MY SATURDAY 23RD FULL-DAY WATERCOLOUR FOR FLOWERS WORKSHOPS)

Course Fee: £45

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Flowers £85pp (Penzance, Cornwall)
Nov
23
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Flowers £85pp (Penzance, Cornwall)

Enjoy learning simple ways to paint beautiful flowers in watercolour. 

You’ll learn which colours to choose; when to use your paint with lots of water for fluid effects, or with a thick consistency for textual effects; we’ll paint poppies, lavender, forget- me-not’s and more. 

 Perfect for creating your own greetings cards and gift tags! 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: 1full DAYS 10-4PM

FANCY HAVING A WHOLE WEEKEND FILLED WITH ART? TAKE A LOOK AT MY HALF DAY WATERCOLOUR BOTANICALS WHICH IS HAPPENINGS ON SUNDAY 23RD NOVEMBER.

Course Fee: £85

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
 
View Event →
Share
Colour Mixing Masterclass  £45pp (Penzance, Cornwall)
Nov
10
10:00 am10:00

Colour Mixing Masterclass £45pp (Penzance, Cornwall)

 

 Learn the watercolour alchemy of mixing colours

Learn which colour combinations look great together in a painting (or an interior, a flower arrangement, an outfit….The list is endless!)

Suitable for absolute beginners as well as regular painters. 

 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: HALF DAY DAYS 10-1 PM

(WANT TO FILL YOUR WHOLE WEEKEND WITH EVEN MORE ART-FILLED FUN? CHECK OUT MY SATURDAY 9TH FULL-DAY WATERCOLOUR FOR BEGINNERS WORKSHOP)

Course Fee: £45

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour for Beginners  £85pp (Penzance, Cornwall)
Nov
9
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour for Beginners £85pp (Penzance, Cornwall)

Learn the basics of watercolour: how much water to use, how to create dreamy diffused painting effects, and crisp layers.

I’ll show you how to use your brush to make painting so much easier, how to paint a watercolour wash, and how to making your watercolours like exciting and 3D rather than flat and wishy-washy. 

 With my guidance you’ll paint a really simple but beautiful little watercolour to take home! 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: 1full DAYS 10-4PM

WANT TO MAKE YOUR WHOLE WEEKEND ART-FILLED? TAKE A LOOK AT MY HALF DAY WATERCOLOUR PENCILS WORKSHOP THAT’S HAPPENING ON SUNDAY THE 22ND OCTOBER.

Course Fee: £85

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Pencils £45pp (Penzance, Cornwall)
Oct
20
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Pencils £45pp (Penzance, Cornwall)

 

Tips for using the amazing Derwent Inktense Pencils to add vibrant, fluid colour to your sketches.

You’ll learn colour mixing, blending, washes, and how to use a “waterbrush” so you don’t need a bottle of water. This is SUCH a useful ( and easy) workshop! 

 A perfect compliment to the Saturday Sketchbooks Workshop, or as a stand-alone workshop in itself.

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: HALF DAY DAYS 10-1 PM

(WANT TO FILL YOUR WHOLE WEEKEND WITH ART-FILLED FUN? CHECK OUT MY OCTOBER 21ST FULL DAY SKETCH BOOK WORKSHOP)

Course Fee: £45

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Saturday Sketchbook Workshop £85pp (Penzance, Cornwall)
Oct
19
10:00 am10:00

Saturday Sketchbook Workshop £85pp (Penzance, Cornwall)

Easy drawing techniques to get you started with sketching.

Learn about different pens and pencils to draw with; how to create a sense of distance; get the proportions right, learn about light and shadow, and how to simplify everything so you don’t get overwhelmed. I have lots of great tips waiting for you!

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch isn’t included. You can buy lunch at the Hotel or there are shops a 3-minute walk away from our session location. Or bring along your own food.

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: 1 DAYS 10-4PM

WANT TO MAKE YOUR WHOLE WEEKEND ART-FILLED? TAKE A LOOK AT MY HALF DAY WATERCOLOUR PENCILS WORKSHOP THAT’S HAPPENING ON SUNDAY THE 22ND OCTOBER.

Course Fee: £85

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
 
View Event →
Share
Seaweed collecting, pressing, and sketching £165pp (Cornwall)
Jun
1
to 2 Jun

Seaweed collecting, pressing, and sketching £165pp (Cornwall)

Imagine the first morning of our seaweed weekend: we’ll stroll down to the beach at Penzance. It’ll be low tide... Perfect conditions for seaweed hunting!

You’ll collect and learn about different varieties of local seaweed, then we'll head back to the hotel for hot coffee and get down to work…

You’ll learn how to:

·       photograph seaweed it in motion, as it looks underwater

·       press and preserve it to use for display and greetings cards,

·       how paint it using super-easy watercolour pencils.

You’ll be so relaxed you’ll be in the zone and almost be floating an inch or two above ground….

You can take home your new seaweed watercolours , and also your seaweed pressings, which will be ready after a couple of weeks ready to create your own “Victorian “ seaweed album. 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

You’ll learn:

·      easy ways to sketch outdoors both quickly and confidently

·      how to use watercolour from a tiny, portable paint box both indoors and outdoors

·      how to mix the most useful colours for beach themed watercolours with them

·      simple ways to draw shapes and proportionsof seashells, seaweed and other shoreline treasures

·      How to understand and use light and shadow to make your drawings and paintings of beach finds look more real and three dimensional

·      to simply immerse yourself in sketching and painting the treasures of the sea. 

. Which essential art materials you’ll need to sketch and paint outdoors and in the studio

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, tubes of the correct paint colours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch. Please bring along a packed lunch: there are no shops on the village to grab a sandwich from.

Walking:

You will need to be able to walk the fifteen mins from studio to the beach and back. A taxi will be around just £5 each way if this would be difficult for you

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH: 2 DAYS 10-4PM

Course Fee: £165

Deposit £80 (non-returnable but can be transferred to another course)

Balance of £85 to be paid before 14 days before the start of the workshop.

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
 
View Event →
Share
Magical Watercolour Pencils £80pp (Cornwall)
Feb
3
10:00 am10:00

Magical Watercolour Pencils £80pp (Cornwall)

What you’ll learn: 

  • What tools you need ( very minimal!)

  • The few basic colours you need and how to easily and subtly blend them to create many more

  • How to create wet in wet watercolour style effects 

  • How to build up transparent layers

  • How to do a super simple seascape, and a landscape, plus much more. 

  • How to create a super simple line drawing to “hang” your colours on

  • Just four places, so book now to secure your place! 


WHAT’S INCLUDED

· More than thirty years of Sarah’s watercolour experience. Priceless!

· All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. No need to bring or buy anything.

· An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

· Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along)

·  A list of the exact materials we use to keep your later art shopping to a minimum

·  Lots of fun and laughter as well as expert art tuition.

 

AND NOT INCLUDED?

  • Accommodation                                                           

  • Car parking                                

  • Lunch. (Please bring along a packed lunch)


PAYMENT INFORMATION:

COURSE LENGTH:1 DAY    10-4PM

Course Fee: £80

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

Have you tried watercolour pencils before and been really disappointed? Me too!

Come and have some fun learning different quick and easy ways to use them without needing the complicated techniques you need to use in classical watercolours. Inktense pencils are like magic: the colours burst into life at the touch of a wet brush.

You can use them for sketching on the go, or for making watercolour style paintings at home. 

View Event →
Share
Easy Watercolour Pencil Day £85pp
Aug
25
10:00 am10:00

Easy Watercolour Pencil Day £85pp

Have you tried watercolour pencils before and been really disappointed? Me too!

Do you remember “Magic Painting Books” when you were small? You simply added a wet brush to the image and colours just appeared? Well that’s the feeling you get using Derwent Inktense Pencils.

Come and have some fun learning different quick and easy ways to use them without needing the complicated techniques you need to use in classical watercolours. Inktense pencils are like magic: the colours burst into life at the touch of a wet brush.

They are SO much easier than conventional watercolour, fun to use, super compact to pop in your bag, and you don’t need to take heavy containers of water along either if you want to use them outdoors. 

You can use them for sketching on the go, or for making watercolour style paintings at home. 

What you’ll learn: 

  • What tools you need ( very minimal!)

  • The few basic colours you need and how to easily and subtly blend them to create many more

  • How to create wet in wet watercolour style effects 

  • How to build up transparent layers

  • How to do a super simple seascape, and a landscape, plus much more. 

  • How to create a super simple line drawing to “hang” your colours on

  • Just four places, so book now to secure your place! 

COST:

£85 for One Day to be paid in full when booking.

 
View Event →
Share
Shoreline Treasures (Cornwall) £195 FULL
Jul
15
to 16 Jul

Shoreline Treasures (Cornwall) £195 FULL

Imagine yourself on the beach in Cornwall, sketching the shapes and colours of the shoreline at low tide, breathing in the salty air and gazing out over the ocean to the horizon.  We’ll do some mindfulness on the beach: breathing… listening… then looking for treasure in rockpools, collecting the many kinds of seaweed, seashells and pebbles to sketch and paint. 

This is how my Shoreline Treasures workshops begins, and you’ll love being introduced to the way in which an artist looks and sees on that first morning on the beach. It’s no surprise that this is one of my most popular workshops. You will need to be able to walk the fifteen mins from studio to the beach and back. A taxi will be around £5 each way if this would be difficult for you

The rest of the course is studio based, (although we may well have another session on the beach if the mood takes us!) But of course, to interpret it all you’ll need some skills too, and so back at the studio I’ll be teaching you some invaluable artists’ secrets.

NB: We use a small watercolour paint box for this course, so please be aware this is not my usual studio based Three Tube System I teach on other workshops. 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

Who is this course for? 

All abilities including beginners. The group size is maximum just eight people so I can teach you all at your own level. 

You’ll learn:

·      easy ways to sketchoutdoorsboth quickly and confidently

·      how to use watercolour from a tiny, portable paint box both indoors and outdoors

·      how to mix the most useful colours for beach themed watercolours with them

·      simple ways to draw shapes and proportionsof seashells, seaweed and other shoreline treasures

·      How to understand and use light and shadow to make your drawings and paintings of beach finds look more real and three dimensional

·      to simply immerse yourself in sketching and painting the treasures of the sea. 

. Which essential art materials you’ll need to sketch and paint outdoors and in the studio

What’s included:

  • More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

  • All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, tubes of the correct paint colours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc.

  • Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non dairy then please remember to bring some along

And not included?

  • Accommodation ( I can  email you a list of possibilities in the area)

  • Lunch. Please bring along a packed lunch: there are no shops on the village to grab a sandwich from.

Walking:

You will need to be able to walk the fifteen mins from studio to the beach and back. A taxi will be around just £5 each way if this would be difficult for you

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour for Beginners (Cornwall) £195pp
Jul
10
to 11 Jul

Watercolour for Beginners (Cornwall) £195pp

Don’t be shy!

So many people want to learn watercolour but are too scared to start.  Is this you?

Well, that’s why I’m here: I specialise in making watercolour simple but exciting. My husband Nigel (who manages out art gallery,) says that if I were a football player I’d be Premier League, but we can’t think of what the equivalent is in teaching watercolour 😊

You’ll learn all these things:

What the best materials are to make your painting easier,

how much water your watercolour needs

how to mix gorgeous juicy colours from just three tubes of paint,

how to use just one basic brush to create so many different brush strokes (this makes things SO much easier!)

What “Wet in Wet” and “Transparent Layers” are; why they are the foundation stones of all watercolour painting, why they’re essential to painting a good watercolour, and how to use them easily.

And you’ll paint a simple landscape with transparent glazes, how to paint a stunning (and yes, easy) still life in Wet in Wet.

You’ll take home my all-important multi-page handout to remind you of all you’ve learned, along with a handy colour mixing reference chart; your paintings and really importantly, a good understanding of watercolour basics and lots of confidence to continue painting at home.

(And I’ve found that even people who’ve been painting in watercolours for years have found this course to be a revelation, whether it’s mixing colours confidently, improving brush technique, or simply getting inspired to paint all over again.)

Oh, and did I forget to mention? It’s just so much fun! I don’t know why, but my workshops just attract the loveliest people!

Here’s what you’ll learn: 

  • easy ways to sketch both quickly and confidently

  •  how to use watercolour from a tiny, portable paint box both indoors and outdoors

  •  how to mix the most useful colours for water and shadows on boats

  •  simple ways to draw shapes and proportions of boats 

  • and how to simplifyall that stuff to make it manageable!

  • How to understand and use light and shadow to make your drawings and paintings of boats and harbours look more real and three dimensional

  •  to simply immerse yourself in sketching and painting on location in a relaxed but focussed way. 

  •   Which essential art materials you’ll need to both sketch and paint outdoors, and in the studio

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included

· More than thirty years of Sarah’s watercolour experience. Priceless!

· All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. No need to bring or buy anything.

· An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

· Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along)

·  A list of the exact materials we use to keep your later art shopping to a minimum

·  Lots of fun and laughter as well as expert art tuition.

 

And not included?

Accommodation                                                                                                                                 Carparking                                                                                                                    

Lunch. (Please bring along a packed lunch)

Payment information:

Course Length: 2 days    10-4pm

Course Fee: £195

Deposit £80 (non-returnable but can be transferred to another course)

Balance of £115 to be paid before 7 days of the start of the workshop.

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Botanicals
Jul
3
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Botanicals

Come and learn the easiest way to paint simple plants and flowers in Watercolour with me!

Five things you’ll learn:

  • tips on how to create single brushstroke petals and leaves 

  • how to mix and match the perfect colours for leaves and flowers

  • how to simply the shapes of flowers to draw paint them more easily

  • what basic materials and equipment you’ll need to paint watercolour botanicals  

  • Lots of handy tips for using watercolours (that many painters don’t know!)

Watercolour Experience Days are perfect to get you painting quickly and easily, and for you to have fun doing it. With over twenty years’ experience of painting and teaching  watercolours, I’ll teach you in a way that’ll make you feel not only inspired but relaxed too.

You’ll be making some unforgettable memories as well as colourful botanical paintings, and you’ll go home with something beautiful you’ll be proud to put on your wall.  

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

And not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use).

 
View Event →
Share
Landscape Watercolours for Absolute Beginners  (Cornwall) £95pp
Jul
1
10:00 am10:00

Landscape Watercolours for Absolute Beginners (Cornwall) £95pp

How to paint a simple watercolour landscape…

In our tiny group of just six students in my beautiful artist’s studio I’ll be showing you how to use a classic watercolour sketchers’ box of paints to produce some simple, beautiful starter landscapes. All your art materials are included.

This is a gentle introduction to colour mixing, watercolour brushes and papers, and how to and use the classic “wet in wet”, and “glazing” techniques. I’ll be

demonstrating painting techniques and the sequence of creating a landscape painting: what you do first, next, and last. We’ll look at how to simplify things, how to paint a simple trouble free sky, distant hills and flower meadows. I’ll also be sharing lots of the easy solutions I’ve found to watercolour problems as a professional painter and illustrator with more than 30 years’ experience.

Whether you’re an absolute beginner, or you’ve been painting for years but want to try a fresh approach this landscape watercolour workshop is perfect for you.

I treat each of my students with patience, humour and generosity, (and I don’t do negative,) so you can walk into my studio feeling happy and excited rather than

apprehensive. And you’ll leave happy but also proud of what you learned and achieved, and feeling inspired to get painting at home too.

I hadn’t picked up a paint brush for many years, but with Sarah’s clear instruction and a lot of laughs I produced a painting that I was proud of!
— Heather Allen, London. April 2023

What’s included

· More than thirty years of Sarah’s watercolour experience. Priceless!

· All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. No need to bring or buy anything.

· An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

· Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along)

·  A list of the exact materials we use to keep your later art shopping to a minimum

·  Lots of fun and laughter as well as expert art tuition.

 

And not included?

Accommodation                                                                                                                                  Carparking                                                                                                  Lunch. (Please bring along a packed lunch)

Payment information:

Course Length: 1 day    10-4pm

Course Fee: £95

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Seascape Watercolours for Absolute Beginners  (Cornwall) £95pp
Jun
28
10:00 am10:00

Seascape Watercolours for Absolute Beginners (Cornwall) £95pp

How to paint a simple watercolour seascape…

Come and spend a calming, inspiring day learning how to paint a simple starter seascape with me in a tiny group of just six students in my beautiful artist’s studio. I’ll be showing you how to use a classic watercolour sketchers’ box of paints to produce some simple, beautiful semi-abstract seascapes.

This is a gentle introduction to choosing the perfect colours for the different moods of the sea and sky, watercolour brushes, different ways of keeping the white of the paper fresh  and how to use the classic “wet in wet”, and “glazing” techniques. I’ll be demonstrating painting techniques and the sequence of creating a seascape painting: what you do first, next, and last. We’ll look at how to simplify things, how to paint a simple trouble-free sky, or a sunset, waves, reflections and sand.

 I’ll also be sharing lots of the easy solutions I’ve found to watercolour problems as a professional painter and illustrator with more than 30 years’ experience.

Whether you’re an absolute beginner, or you’ve been painting for years but want to try a fresh approach you’ll love the fun, relaxed atmosphere at my workshops.

I treat each of my students with patience, humour and generosity, (and I don’t do negative,) so you can walk into my studio feeling happy and excited rather than apprehensive. And you’ll leave feeling more confident with watercolour knowing lots more and feeling inspired to paint.

The best painting and drawing workshop I have ever attended
— Susanne Lundin, Sweden. April 2023
I hadn’t picked up a paint brush for many years, but with Sarah’s clear instruction and a lot of laughs I produced a painting that I was proud of!
— Heather Allen, London. April 2023

What’s included

· More than thirty years of Sarah’s watercolour experience. Priceless!

· All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. No need to bring or buy anything.

· An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

· Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along)

·  A list of the exact materials we use to keep your later art shopping to a minimum

·  Lots of fun and laughter as well as expert art tuition.

 

And not included?

Accommodation                                                                                                                                  Carparking                                                                                                  Lunch. (Please bring along a packed lunch)

Payment information:

Course Length: 1 day    10-4pm

Course Fee: £95

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Mixology
May
1
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Mixology

Learn the basics of Watercolour

Watercolour Experience Days are designed to get you painting quickly and easily, and for you to have fun doing it. Perfect whether you’re an Absolute Beginner or if you paint already.

You’ll officially be a Watercolour Mixologist by the end of the day!

What you’ll do:

First thing: coffee and introductions to meet the other members of our group, then we’ll get started on our inspiring day. With my guidance you’ll create a beautiful colour chart in the morning and experiment with different ways to use your watercolour.

After lunch you’ll create some beautiful and easy abstract watercolour paintings using your new knowledge about colour and wet in wet technique.  

Ten things you’ll learn:

  • How to create beautiful, juicy colours from the hard blocks (pans) in your watercolour box 

  • How to easily create many more colours by mixing the ones you already have

  • How to avoid mixing sludgy, muddy colours straight away

  • My recommendations for the essential art materials for easy watercolours

  •  how to create the perfect consistency for your watercolours

  • Special colour combinations to make your colours sing (an artist’s secret!)

  • How to create beautiful pools of colour to paint both watercolour washes and Wet-in-Wet technique

  • How using a “Watercolour Bridge” makes your watercolour so much easier to control 

  • How to paint an easy “watercolour wash,” and why it’s so important. 

  • My best trouble-shooting watercolour tips. 

Just as important, you’ll have a wonderful, relaxed day of watercolour painting in the company of an encouraging professional artist. You’ll be making unforgettable memories and you’ll go home with something beautiful you’ll be proud to put on your wall. 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

And not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use).

Watercolour Mixology (June)
£95.00
 
View Event →
Share
Seaweed Watercolours
Apr
30
10:00 am10:00

Seaweed Watercolours

Come and enjoy painting seaweed in glorious Watercolour with me!


Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

And not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use).

 
View Event →
Share
Shoreline Watercolours
Apr
8
10:00 am10:00

Shoreline Watercolours

Come and enjoy painting seaweed, shells and pebbles in glorious Watercolour with me!

Five things you’ll learn:

  • how to mix lovely colours for seashells and seaweed

  • how to sketch them and transform that into a painting

  • how to place your shoreline objects to make an interesting  composition

  • what basic materials and equipment you’ll need to paint in watercolours

  • Lots of handy tips for using watercolours (that many painters don’t know!)

 

Watercolour Experience Days are perfect to get you painting quickly and easily, and for you to have fun doing it. With over twenty years’ experience of painting and teaching  watercolours, I’ll teach you in a way that’ll make you feel not only inspired but relaxed too.

You’ll be making some unforgettable memories as well as colourful paintings of seashells and seaweed, and you’ll go home with something beautiful you’ll be proud to put on your wall.  


Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

And not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use).

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour Mixology
Mar
18
10:00 am10:00

Watercolour Mixology

Learn the basics of Watercolour

Watercolour Experience Days are designed to get you painting quickly and easily, and for you to have fun doing it. Perfect whether you’re an Absolute Beginner or if you paint already.

You’ll officially be a Watercolour Mixologist by the end of the day!

What you’ll do:

First thing: coffee and introductions to meet the other members of our group, then we’ll get started on our inspiring day. With my guidance you’ll create a beautiful colour chart in the morning and experiment with different ways to use your watercolour.

After lunch you’ll create some beautiful and easy abstract watercolour paintings using your new knowledge about colour and wet in wet technique.  

Ten things you’ll learn:

  • How to create beautiful, juicy colours from the hard blocks (pans) in your watercolour box 

  • How to easily create many more colours by mixing the ones you already have

  • How to avoid mixing sludgy, muddy colours straight away

  • My recommendations for the essential art materials for easy watercolours

  •  how to create the perfect consistency for your watercolours

  • Special colour combinations to make your colours sing (an artist’s secret!)

  • How to create beautiful pools of colour to paint both watercolour washes and Wet-in-Wet technique

  • How using a “Watercolour Bridge” makes your watercolour so much easier to control 

  • How to paint an easy “watercolour wash,” and why it’s so important. 

  • My best trouble-shooting watercolour tips. 

Just as important, you’ll have a wonderful, relaxed day of watercolour painting in the company of an encouraging professional artist. You’ll be making unforgettable memories and you’ll go home with something beautiful you’ll be proud to put on your wall. 

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

And not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use).

Watercolour Mixology
£95.00
 
View Event →
Share
Paint a Seascape in Acrylics
Mar
16
10:00 am10:00

Paint a Seascape in Acrylics

Come and learn the easiest way to paint in Acrylics with me this year!

Whether you’re an absolute beginner, or you already dabble in Acrylics and would like to learn more, you’ll love painting this easy and colourful seascape in acrylics with me as your guide. 

Ten things you’ll learn:

  • how to prepare a canvas and plan out your seascape painting

  • tips on how to create a sense of distance in your sea and sky

  • how to create some sea-inspired colour mixes from just a few basic colours

  • the best ways to create texture when painting waves.

  • how to paint simple waves in two ways 

  • what basic materials and equipment you’ll need to paint an acrylic landscape  

  • how to use a palette knife to create texture 

  • which brushes to use for different effects.

  • what to paint first, next and last when creating a seascape in acrylics

  • Lots of handy tips for using acrylics (that many painters don’t know!)

Acrylics Experience Days are perfect to get you painting quickly and easily, and for you to have fun doing it. With over twenty years’ experience of painting in acrylics and teaching art, I’ll teach you in a way that’ll make you feel not only inspired but relaxed too.

You’ll be making some unforgettable memories as well as a seascape painting, and you’ll go home with something beautiful you’ll be proud to put on your wall.  

Because I want you to have a great experience and have plenty of help and support from me, there are only six places on an Experience Day.  Book now to secure your space.

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

Not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use). 

Paint a seascape in Acrylics
£95.00
 
View Event →
Share
Paint a Landscape in Acrylics
Mar
14
10:00 am10:00

Paint a Landscape in Acrylics

Come and learn the easiest way to paint in Acrylics with me this year!

Whether you’re an absolute beginner, or you already dabble in Acrylics and would like to learn more, you’ll love painting this easy and colourful landscape in acrylics with me as your guide.

Ten things you’ll learn:

·       how to create some essential colour mixes for landscapes from just a few colours

·       how to plan and map out your landscape ready for painting

·       how to use a palette knife, two ways

·       how to create texture in your landscape

·       which brushes to use for different effects

·       what to paint first; next, and last when making landscape in acrylics

·       how to create a sense of distance (goodbye flat-looking painting!)

·       tips on how to loosely paint distant trees.

·       what basic materials and equipment you’ll need to paint an acrylic landscape 

·       Lots of handy tips for using acrylics (that many painters don’t know!)

Acrylics Experience Days are perfect to get you painting quickly and easily, and for you to have fun doing it. With over twenty years’ experience of painting in acrylics and teaching art, I’ll teach you in a way that’ll make you feel not only inspired but relaxed too.

You’ll be making some unforgettable memories as well as landscape painting, and you’ll go home with something beautiful you’ll be proud to put on your wall. 

Because I want you to have a great experience and have plenty of help and support from me, there are only six places on an Experience Day.  Book now to secure your space.

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What's included:

  • All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

  • Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!

Not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along, (and if you have any special dietary requirements please bring along any milks or biscuits if you may want to use). 

 
View Event →
Share
Nature Journals A Six Week Course (Morrab Library Penzance) 1.30pm -3.30pm
Oct
12
to 16 Nov

Nature Journals A Six Week Course (Morrab Library Penzance) 1.30pm -3.30pm

I’m enjoying the nature sketches so much that I’ve decided to teach a short course in Watercolour Nature Journals starting in October at the beautiful Morrab Library in Penzance.

Founded in 1818 the classical white building surrounded by palm trees is an oasis for book lovers, and is one of my favourite places in the world.

A collection of rooms big and small houses old books up to the ceiling, library ladders and leather topped writing tables. It has the air of a stately home library, but with added cups of tea and lots of laughter and camaraderie with the lovely staff.
I’ve booked the Theology Collection room (more commonly known as “God’s Room”. )

Wednesdays were free, so I’ve booked a run of six two hour sessions there on Wednesday afternoons to share my love of sketching nature with a small group of nature lovers.


My Watercolour Nature Journal Course costs just £120 for 6 x 2hour classes and there a couple of places left so if you’d like to join us just send me an email with your phone number and I can ring you for a chat to see if it’s right for you.

Payment:

£120 (6 x 2 hour classes)

1.30pm -3.30pm

What’s included: 

12 hours of art tuition over 6 weeks

All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

A detailed multi-page handout covering all the techniques you’ll learn in the workshop

Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!



Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

Please be warned: my courses fill up very quickly !

 
View Event →
Share
NEW  Watercolour for Wellbeing (Cornwall) £125pp
Jul
10
10:00 am10:00

NEW Watercolour for Wellbeing (Cornwall) £125pp

You’re feeling stressed, worried, pre-occupied and you just want to switch your brain to OFF for a while.

 Friend, I know that feeling… 

The thing is, once I have paints and a brush in front of me my brain cools down and soon I’m back in Happy Four- Year Old Land.  

Now, we all know that art works wonders in creating a sense of calm and happiness.

But you may feel that you don’t have the skills or confidence to even give it a go.

So come and play with me in my art studio: you don’t need any drawing or painting skills at all. We’ll just play with paint, experiment with water, mess about in the sand pit, (joke) and relax into a Watercolour Day of Play….

Nice music, hot tea and proper coffee on tap, all the art materials you can wish for, and gentle guidance for fun things to do with pencil and paint. We’ll do abstract-y type things, (so they don’t need to “look right”,) play with colours and wet in wet, print and stencil with paint, and you’ll be so relaxed when you leave you’ll be almost levitating…

I’ll be running a day of Watercolour for Wellbeing on the last Friday each month, and we’ll do slightly different things each time, so you may want to make a habit of it…

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics.
— Kirsty

What’s included

· More than thirty years of Sarah’s experience. Priceless!

· All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. No need to bring or buy anything.

·  Lots of ideas and photographic to inspire you (you won’t be stuck for ideas!)

· An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

· Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along)

·  Lots of fun and laughter as well as expert art tuition.

 

And not included?

Accommodation                                                                                                                                 Carparking                                                                                                                    

Lunch. (Please bring along a packed lunch)

Payment information:

Course Length: 1 day    10-4pm

Course Fee: £125

Payment in full when booking  (non-returnable but can be transferred to another course).

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Watercolour for Beginners (Cornwall) £225pp
Jul
4
to 5 Jul

Watercolour for Beginners (Cornwall) £225pp

Don’t be shy!

So many people want to learn watercolour but are too scared to start.  Is this you?

Well, that’s why I’m here: I specialise in making watercolour simple but exciting. My husband Nigel (who manages out art gallery,) says that if I were a football player I’d be Premier League, but we can’t think of what the equivalent is in teaching watercolour 😊

You’ll learn all these things:

What the best materials are to make your painting easier,

how much water your watercolour needs

how to mix gorgeous juicy colours from just three tubes of paint,

how to use just one basic brush to create so many different brush strokes (this makes things SO much easier!)

What “Wet in Wet” and “Transparent Layers” are; why they are the foundation stones of all watercolour painting, why they’re essential to painting a good watercolour, and how to use them easily.

And you’ll paint a simple landscape with transparent glazes, how to paint a stunning (and yes, easy) still life in Wet in Wet.

You’ll take home my all-important multi-page handout to remind you of all you’ve learned, along with a handy colour mixing reference chart; your paintings and really importantly, a good understanding of watercolour basics and lots of confidence to continue painting at home.

(And I’ve found that even people who’ve been painting in watercolours for years have found this course to be a revelation, whether it’s mixing colours confidently, improving brush technique, or simply getting inspired to paint all over again.)

Oh, and did I forget to mention? It’s just so much fun! I don’t know why, but my workshops just attract the loveliest people!

Here’s what you’ll learn: 

  • easy ways to sketch both quickly and confidently

  •  how to use watercolour from a tiny, portable paint box both indoors and outdoors

  •  how to mix the most useful colours for water and shadows on boats

  •  simple ways to draw shapes and proportions of boats 

  • and how to simplifyall that stuff to make it manageable!

  • How to understand and use light and shadow to make your drawings and paintings of boats and harbours look more real and three dimensional

  •  to simply immerse yourself in sketching and painting on location in a relaxed but focussed way. 

  •   Which essential art materials you’ll need to both sketch and paint outdoors, and in the studio

Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty

What’s included

· More than thirty years of Sarah’s watercolour experience. Priceless!

· All your art materials and equipment including watercolour paper, watercolours, brushes, palettes, boards, etc. No need to bring or buy anything.

· An essential handout to remind you of all the invaluable things you’ve learned

· Basic tea and coffee. (If you drink particularly exotic teas, or use non-dairy then please remember to bring some along)

·  A list of the exact materials we use to keep your later art shopping to a minimum

·  Lots of fun and laughter as well as expert art tuition.

 

And not included?

Accommodation                                                                                                                                 Carparking                                                                                                                    

Lunch. (Please bring along a packed lunch)

Payment information:

Course Length: 2 days    10-4pm

Course Fee: £225

Deposit £100 (non-returnable but can be transferred to another course)

Balance of £125 to be paid before 7 days of the start of the workshop.

Book now: my courses fill up very quickly!

 
View Event →
Share
Modern Watercolour Botanicals (Cornwall) £225pp
Jun
30
to 1 Jul

Modern Watercolour Botanicals (Cornwall) £225pp

Come and enjoy learning how to paint the modern watercolour botanicals and flowers that are so popular on greeting cards, stationary, Pinterest and Instagram right now. You can use your new watercolour skills to create your own thank you cards, party and wedding invitations, place settings, menu cards… the list is endless!


Bring a friend, your mum or your daughter and spend a wonderful, relaxing day together.
(suitable for absolute beginners and the more experienced.)


  

This workshop is designed to help you to:

· Understand how to draw simple flowers and leaves

  • · How to arrange the subject on paper

  • · How to mix colours for botanicals

  • · Which watercolour techniques to use

  • How to draw easy flowers and botanicals

  • How to paint simple garlands, flowers, leaves and berries

  • (And how to “erase” any watercolour mistakes!)



What’s included: 

All the art materials you’ll need: no need to buy or bring anything with you

A detailed multi-page handout covering all the techniques you’ll learn in the workshop

Unlimited hot drinks and biscuits to keep you going!



And not included: 

Lunch: bring a packed lunch along

Accommodation (we can supply a list for you) 



Sarah is a wonderful teacher – she does lots of demonstrating and guides you through all the basics of watercolour painting, so that you feel confident that you can actually paint … with paints … on proper paper … with a brush … and know what you’re doing!
— Kirsty


Payment information:

Total Fee: £225 for 2 days

Deposit of £125 to be paid online, the final £100 to be paid 7 days before the workshop starts.

Please be warned: my courses fill up very quickly !

 
View Event →
Share