Field Studies Council, Flatford Mill

Gold AWARD

Acrylics for the beginner at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 11th December 2020

£270

Acrylics are the most versatile of painting mediums offering the beginner the freedom to make mistakes and correct them! Carole will guide you through simple step-by-step exercises, showing you many different ways to use acrylics – from a watercolour style to using it thickly with a palette knife. We will be painting both landscapes and still life and look at surfaces, brushes and composition as well as using gels and additives…everything, in fact, to kick start your acrylic paintings! Course tutor: Carole Massey Carole Massey has been a professional artist...

Gold AWARD

Adding texture to your watercolours at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 4th December 2020

£270

This fun weekend course is for anyone with a little experience, to advanced painters in watercolours. We will show you how to turn an ordinary painting into an extraordinary one! We will take you beyond the typical painting materials, by using household materials and other ‘craft items’ to achieve a fresher, more exciting painting style. Course tutors: Linda Series and Caroline Furlong Linda and Caroline are experienced watercolourists and tutors, who greatly enjoy sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm with painters of all levels of ability.

Gold AWARD

Animals and pets: painting and drawing at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 30th October 2020

£270

Whether you wish to paint your pet or a wild animal, the demands are the same. Carole will show you how to paint features and form, texture and pattern, fur, hair, highlights and shadows, as well as how to capture character and expression using watercolours, pastels and pastel pencils. Please bring a good reference photograph or work from Carole’s photographs. There will be a demonstration after super on Saturday. Suitable for all abilities. Course tutor: Carole Massey Carole Massey has been a professional artist for many years and is a...

Gold AWARD

Around the mill with a sketchbook at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 30th May 2020

£50

On this day course the group wander around Flatford buildings and garden borders making sketches – perhaps two or three flowers together, the colours of brickwork, any interesting corner or cranny. You will have the option of using the day in this way or making one or two small pictures in the workroom from the sketch ideas. Course tutor: Jennifer Andrews Jennifer Andrews is a freelance painter and designer, who is also responsible for the borders in front of the Mill and Willy Lotts House. Training in art began at...

Gold AWARD

Art and craft week at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th December 2020

£600

Spend a lovely week enjoying the food, accommodation, surroundings and the company of others whilst learning and practicing a range of art and craft skills on offer at Flatford Mill. There will be felting with Toni Peers, Carole Gray will be visiting for the day to give students the opportunity to turn their hand to stained glass techniques and Deb Hart will be on hand during the week providing guidance on willow weaving. Evenings will be very informal after dinner, with opportunities to see what our bookbinding and art students...

Gold AWARD

Autumn in pen and wash at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th September 2020

£245

A course to celebrate the changing season at Flatford Mill. Pen and Ink, Pen and Wash and Pen and Watercolour are ideal for drawing and painting fruits, flowers, cornfields and autumn trees. Sue will demonstrate to inspire you and show you ideas and techniques to use with pen and wash. Please note: This course is non-residential only. Course tutor: Sue Williams Sue Williams has been a Watercolour tutor for forty years. She writes about painting for art magazines, regularly exhibits in London and in 2013 won The SAA Artist of...

Gold AWARD

Basic bushcraft at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 22nd May 2020

£270

‘Bushcraft’ is the study and practice of wilderness living skills. These skills don’t necessarily require the technological advancements of our modern age but rely more on traditional knowledge and skills. The practice of bushcraft can provide you with food, shelter and all the necessities of survival as well as many comforts and conveniences that you might be surprised to learn can be found amongst nature. This course will equip you with the basic skills and knowledge of bushcraft which you can take away and practice and perfect over time. Course...

Gold AWARD

Basket weaving at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 26th May 2020

£70

Learn how to make a traditional round basket using English willow. The day will start with instruction on types of willow, choosing, buying and planting your own materials. You will learn at least 3 different weaves plus a border technique. You will take home a completed basket which could be used for serving bread or many other things. Course tutor: Deb Hart Deb has been weaving for over 20 years making large structures for the RHS and many garden designers. She has also been teaching for over 30 years in...

Gold AWARD

Beginners drawing and watercolours at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th December 2020

£480

Ideal for those who need guidance about how to go about constructing a drawing from life. We will be looking at simple shapes and simple objects; their positioning in relation to perspective and how to draw what we actually see, not what we think we see. Jeremy will cover basic watercolour techniques, with an introduction to the materials used to create different effects, such as paper types, colours, colour-mixing, colour theory, brushes,and other sundry useful items at the watercolourist’s disposal. Come with your questions! Course tutor: Jeremy Ford Jeremy studied...

Gold AWARD

Bobbin lace making at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 1st August 2020

£60

This one day course offers an opportunity to learn the basics skills required to produce a wearable piece (brooch/pendant/bracelet) of bobbin lace with a modern feel. The course will include preparing the bobbins with thread and how to start the pattern. Instructions for the stitch designs required to work the lace pattern. Tutor support to work and complete the piece of lace. Then finally mounting the finished piece on to a brooch pin, pendant or bracelet. If you have attended my course before there will be a follow-on pattern available...

Gold AWARD

(2)

Bookbinding and book repairs for beginners and improvers at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 25th May 2020

£500

Covering both restoration of existing books and the creation of new bindings and books, this course is equally suitable for beginners and those with previous experience, since tuition is given according to individual needs. The course emphasises the traditional skills and techniques of hand binding and helps you develop a deeper insight into this rewarding craft, whose origins go back over 2,000 years. Cutting tools, presses and other binding equipment and materials are all available for what is one of very few residential bookbinding courses offered in the UK each...

Gold AWARD

Bookbinding: making recycled books at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 16th October 2020

£270

Rubbish books. During this exclusive workshop, participants will be able to make their own books from everyday waste materials. From the glues to covering materials, Mark will explain, demonstrate the various steps in making a book with an eye on making the most from as little as possible, whilst retaining the traditional format of the book. Participants will be encouraged to bring their own rubbish from guidelines provided. From the beginning, the book and the bookbinder has made use of waste and the recycled, the Rag and Bone man –...

Gold AWARD

Botanical illustration for mixed abilities at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 25th May 2020

£480

This course is for those who have had some previous experience in using watercolours but may be new to botanical illustration. This mixed ability course will focus on accurate drawing, colour mixing and composition as well as more advanced techniques, depending on where you are in your botanical journey. Beginners, intermediate and advanced learners are all welcome. Every stage from basic use of equipment to making the finishing touches will be demonstrated and explained to give you the confidence to paint to an even higher standard. Please note: Good eyesight...

Gold AWARD

Botanical illustration using coloured pencils at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 29th May 2020

£270

Discover the wonderful world of coloured pencils and learn how to create rich and colourful drawings of all things botanical – flowers, fruit and vegetables – all without adding water to the painting! This course is for all levels of ability and is designed to show the simplicity and the effectiveness of using wax and oil based coloured pencils to create beautiful botanical drawings. This exciting course is for those who may not have a previous knowledge of coloured pencils but who are interested in botanical art and wish to...

Gold AWARD

Botanical illustration: developing your skills at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 26th July 2020

£675

This unique and historic course is for those with some previous experience in botanical illustration. During this week you will learn more advanced techniques as demonstrated by Lesley on a group and individual basis. This course is suitable for intermediate and advanced learners. However, as most of the tuition is on a one to one basis, beginners are welcome to attend as long as they have a basic knowledge of watercolour painting. All learners attending will benefit from the opportunity to share ideas and gain inspiration from more experienced artists...

Gold AWARD

(1)

Calligraphy for beginners and improvers at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 14th April 2020

£395

Beginners and improvers are equally welcome on this weekend calligraphy course, since the tuition can easily be adapted to meet everyone’s individual needs. You will be encouraged to work in one or more calligraphy scripts, for example Formal or Cursive Italic, Foundational Hand, Uncial, Versal or other capitals. You can learn or revise the scripts of your choice, experiment with the letter-form variations and use the scripts in short projects to encourage rhythm in writing as well as good layout and design. Colour in the pen and background can be...

Gold AWARD

Contemporary impressionism in Constable country at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 24th August 2020

£480

The course will cover how to paint light, shadows, reflections and your impressions of the fleeting changes of the world around us. Impressionism began in the 1870s in France and is still influential and relevant today for the simple reason that it is still probably the most popular of the pictorial arts. It is appropriate that a course on Impressionism should be here in Constable Country because it was Constable’s painting of the Stour Valley that inspired Money and Pissarro. This course explores how the impressionists painted; we look at...

Gold AWARD

Coracle making at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th August 2020

£480

Coracle: ‘A boat of skin-covered wicker’ (Pocket Oxford Dictionary). A coracle is one of the most ancient boat designs, only a few small technical steps more advanced than a raft. During this week-long course you will construct your own coracle using willows for the framework and thin canvas for the skin, and hew your own paddle if time allows. The group will be small, only four people maximum, to allow for individual tuition in the weaving and binding of the hull and gunwale of your craft. A canvas and bitumen...

Gold AWARD

Developing your own sketchbook at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 11th September 2020

£270

Based on the architecture and scenery of Flatford Mill, this course takes you through the process of collecting visual information: researching, drawing and experimenting. As a residential course, it offers a fabulous opportunity for complete creative immersion and you will be encouraged draw everything you see from morning until night. Connected, interesting projects to inspire and develop your sketchbook activities. Suitable for both beginners and more experienced students. This course takes a fresh, lively, productive approach to drawing and working in your sketchbook, and the work you create will be...

Gold AWARD

Encaustic art: painting with molten wax at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th June 2020

£60

In this one-day class you will learn the art of painting with molten wax to create vivid, flowing, textured pictures in a surprisingly short amount of time. You can use a variety of tools to melt wax and on this course we will be working with an iron and a heated stylus. You will learn various techniques to create both abstract and landscape work and by the end of the class you will have created at least twenty small paintings. This class is suitable for both a beginner to art,...

Gold AWARD

Essential oils: botanical balms at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 29th July 2020

£60

Make your own nourishing balm with a range of the finest quality organic botanical ingredients, including essential oils. Discover how they can support a range of health conditions and feel confident to design a product that nurtures your personal wellbeing. In this course, you will be introduced to a range of botanical ingredients, as well as spending some time becoming familiar with an array of essential oils, their incredible scents and their health and wellbeing properties, leaving you confident to design an effective product, tailored to your personal needs. A...

Gold AWARD

Essential oils: natural face cream at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 29th July 2020

£60

Make your own completely natural, organic face and body cream, using the finest quality ingredients without chemical emulsifiers or preservatives. Experience and learn about the botanical ingredients, where they come from and how they can support skin care requirements in this practical, sensual workshop. There is a real beauty that can unfold when you make your own skin care products, having an appreciation for the natural ingredients, understanding where they come from and their precious qualities can inspire us to bring a whole new level of cherishing to our everyday...

Gold AWARD

Essential oils: plant to perfume at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 28th July 2020

£60

Make your own unique and completely natural, organic oil perfume, with the finest quality organic essential oils. Experience and learn about the aromatic ingredients, where they come from and how they can support health and well-being in this practical, sensual workshop. Cases of skin sensitivities seem to be increasing and many perfumes can feel quite harsh to use on your skin, so choosing a more natural, gentle option is part of the inspiration behind this workshop. Despite the array of fragrance options on the market, many people struggle to find...

Gold AWARD

Essential oils: soap making at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 30th July 2020

£60

Discover the joy of making your own soap, learn about the botanical ingredients and take home techniques that you can use to design your own future recipes. During the workshop we will make a batch of soap together for you to take home. There is a real beauty that can unfold when you make your own skin care products, having an appreciation for the natural ingredients, understanding where they come from and their precious qualities can inspire us to bring a whole new level of cherishing to our everyday skin...

Gold AWARD

Exploring autumn landscapes at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 26th October 2020

£500

Experienced watercolour painter and tutor Rob Dudley will guide you through the stages of creating paintings inspired by the seasonal landscape in and around Flatford Mill. After sketching in the field, Rob will guide you in the studio, with plenty of tips and one-to-one tuition on how to develop these sketches into more finished works. The course is aimed at the experienced and those with some watercolour knowledge alike.

Gold AWARD

Exploring drawing: free form at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 25th May 2020

£50

‘Not conforming to a regular or formal structure or shape’ this one day intensive course explores wider notions of drawing seen in contemporary art today. Over the day we will explore ways of identifying with the landscape of Flatford, considering drawing as both an enquiry and a visual language to explore. This open-level course is designed for those who enjoy experimenting, free expression and the conceptual processes of image making. Embolden your drawing! The day will comprise of three distinct drawing activities requiring a different approach and different material use....

Gold AWARD

Exploring drawing: movement at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 26th May 2020

£50

‘An act of moving or change or development’ defines movement and this day-long course looks to explore ways of capturing a sense of movement as evidenced by the effects of weather and time. Working en plein air in small sketchbooks we will be following in Constable’s footsteps in search of moving subjects – water, reeds, clouds, grasses, trees, animals and people. This open-level course is design for drawers who are looking to push their drawing on in new dynamic ways. We will share are drawings as we go and take...

Gold AWARD

Exploring drawing: nature at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 27th May 2020

£50

‘The basic or inherent features, character or qualities of something and the phenomena of the physical world collectively’ defines the word ‘nature’, our focus for this full day of drawing. Flatford offers us a rich mosaic of lowland landscapes stretching out from the riverbank of the Stour and the wide open skies. This open-level course is designed for those who enjoy finding ways to represent nature both faithfully and evocatively. Enjoy drawing and learning with others in this beautiful setting. Referencing the work of Constable and others we will inform...

Gold AWARD

Exploring Suffolk spring gardens with your camera at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th April 2020

£395

This three day course, over the Easter weekend, is ideal for those who love spending time in gardens and enjoys photography. We will immerse ourselves amongst the new spring shoots and flowers at Flatford Mill, Columbine Hall, Place for Plants and one other local garden. Most of the time will be spent taking pictures from vistas through to close ups while acquiring new skills about how to get the most from our cameras. Learning how to quickly adjust the ISO, master manual focusing and more, plus observing how the quality...

Gold AWARD

Exploring the art of adding ink to your watercolours at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 3rd August 2020

£245

This fun course is equally suitable for near beginners and those who have painted in watercolours for a while. It will teach you how different types of ink can add a dynamic addition to your watercolour paintings at different stages. You will be shown how to apply inks in many ways. We will be working outside (weather permitting) and in the studio, using techniques that you may not thought of. This is great fun and you will go home with stunning, lively, fresh watercolour and ink paintings. Please note we...

Gold AWARD

Expressing autumn hedgerows at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 26th October 2020

£500

Taking inspiration from the hedgerows around Flatford Mill, Siân Dudley will encourage you to explore the glorious colours and textures of autumn. Using mainly watercolour paints you will also be encouraged to investigate other water based media and experimental techniques to produce colourful images that give back something of the energy of summer. Beginning with enjoyable and informative observation of the hedgerows around Flatford Mill, Siân will encourage you to discover what is it that inspires you. It may be glorious autumnal colour, whether that be the bright orangey-reds or...

Gold AWARD

First steps in pencil, pen and ink at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 14th April 2020

£395

Starting right from the beginning, this course looks at observational drawing of still life subjects. It covers the importance of lines, how to use them, how different weights of line affect a visual image and goes on to explain tone. This is a relatively fast paced course: you will spend around one to three hours on each drawing, trying out different ideas on each one. The majority of projects will be studio based, with a variety of subjects that have been brought in by your tutor. Starting with relatively simple...

Gold AWARD

Flatford Mill plein air group

Suffolk - Next course on 27th July 2020

£480

This programme is for anyone who would like to join an informal group of enthusiastic, likeminded outdoor painters who are comfortable working without the need of a tutor. Each day the group will be taken out together by minibus to a different location where participants will be free to spend their time working however they wish using their own preferred medium. There is a wealth of painting potential around Flatford Mill, and excursions out may include locations such as Woodbridge, Pin Mill and Felixstowe Ferry. When the weather is prohibitive...

Gold AWARD

Flatford watercolour adventure at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 17th August 2020

£480

In this exciting course artist Thomas Plunkett will be demonstrating and teaching his innovative watercolour techniques as well as showing how to create confident and dynamic watercolours using the beautiful surroundings of Flatford Mill and its locality as primary observation. Those attending the course will be taught a range of traditional and more innovative watercolour techniques using a range of materials and subject matter. Students will finish the course with a body of work in this most beautiful of mediums and a full range of new techniques to use in...

Gold AWARD

Flowers in pen and ink at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 14th August 2020

£270

Looking at bright colours, strong contrasts and complex forms, this course introduces you to bold techniques to create large, expressive drawings of flowers in pen and ink with colour washes. Simple, fun and accessible whatever your drawing abilities. This is a relatively fast-paced course: you will spend around one to three hours on each drawing, trying out different ideas on each one, and each drawing is likely to be of a single flower. The majority of projects will be studio based, with a mixture of garden and market specimens that...

Gold AWARD

Freshen up your watercolours at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 4th September 2020

£270

This weekend course is for anyone who has attended a beginners course or painted with watercolours before and feels in need of new inspiration to be able to make more progress. Everyone can expect to get fresh ideas on how to see and apply watercolour simply. Tuition will be through a mixture of demonstrations and individual guidance, according to your prior experience. The aim of the demonstrations will to be to show how the unique and elusive properties of watercolour – transparency and freshness – can be achieved. Subjects will...

Gold AWARD

Gouache: painting landscape and nature at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 17th August 2020

£480

Gouache is wonderfully adaptable water-soluble paint which can be applied thinly like watercolour, but can also be used more thickly to cover previous layers. Perfectly mixable with watercolours. No experience necessary! Using reference from outside and working on-site wherever possible, we can develop sketches and ideas in the studio as well as work from people’s tablets and photographs. Step-by-step demonstrations throughout and particular focus on matching colours to those in nature, with plenty of opportunity to experiment. Course tutor: Jeremy Ford Jeremy studied Graphic Design at Southport College of Art,...

Gold AWARD

Handcrafting felt: Christmas decorations at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 12th December 2020

£60

Learn how to make felt using both the wet felting and needle felting techniques. Handcrafted felt is made using pre-spun wool, the fibres are fused together to create felt either by force using a needle, or friction, heat and soap for the wet felted method. It is a wonderfully tactile craft. During this relaxed day you can choose to make a Christmas themed animal, a decoration for your tree, a perhaps a Christmas wreath. Or you could choose to spend your time making a present for a loved one, for...

Gold AWARD

Hurdle making at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 2nd May 2020

£60

This is a practical one-day course which will leave you with the skills to weave a variety of stick materials for hurdle making. We will work primarily with one and two year old willow but for those interested in weaving hazel you can be assured that the techniques are closely similar so you will find all you need to know. The course will include: the growing properties of willow, simple cultivation and a look at the history ; material selection in two styles of weaving; safe effective use of a...

Gold AWARD

Improve your watercolours with pen and wash at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 22nd May 2020

£395

This course is for anyone who would like to learn how a combination of pen work and simple watercolour washes can produce exciting, worthwhile paintings. There will be plenty of demonstrations, plus individual guidance. The aim of the demonstrations will be to show students the full potential of this medium. All the basic technical information will be covered and there will be plenty of time for practice. The basic ideas of composition, colour and tone as well as drawing will also be revisited. The course is suitable for beginners and...

Gold AWARD

Introduction to landscape painting at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 28th May 2020

£50

The purpose of this one day course is to explain the best way to start painting landscapes in watercolour to ensure maximum enjoyment. A sound beginning is essential to avoid being discouraged. All the basic principles will be covered and participants will be given a guide on the simple, basic painting equipment needed. Students will be shown and then encouraged to paint simple landscapes straight away; a visual record of what they have seen to evoke the memories of a pleasant outing in the countryside. Course tutor: Andrew Pitt Andrew...

Gold AWARD

Jewellery making weekend: enamelling and silver clay at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 4th December 2020

£330

An opportunity to explore two different jewellery disciplines in one weekend plus a few general jewellery making tips to make your pieces into wearable art. Vitreous Enamelling is an ancient art form created by fusing powdered glass to copper and then firing at high temperatures in a kiln. Using both opaque and transparent glass you will create some beautiful and unique pieces of jewellery, or decorative pieces. Expect to make at least three enamelled pieces in this part of the weekend class. Silver clay is wondrous stuff, it enables you...

Gold AWARD

Landscapes in watercolour: from inspirations to finished paintings at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 31st July 2020

£395

This course by one of our regular Associate Tutors is especially designed for those with at least a little experience of working in watercolour. You will be able to go out and about to sketch, paint and photograph the buildings and landscape around Flatford Mill and then come back to the studio to turn all the information gathered into finished paintings – with lots of help and individual tuition along the way. The landscape is the inspiration for many painters in watercolour. But where do you start? How do you...

Gold AWARD

Make a stained glass panel in a day at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 23rd May 2020

£90

This beginner’s day course gives an opportunity to explore this traditional craft and to make a 20cm square stained glass panel using the leaded technique. The tutor will provide simple, non-representational designs and packs of glass for you to choose from. All the other materials and tools you will need to complete your panel are also provided. Refreshments and lunch served in the Mill dining room are also covered by the all-inclusive fee. Course tutor: Carole Gray Carole Gray is a designer and maker of decorative stained glass, who uses...

Gold AWARD

Making glass stars for Christmas at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 8th December 2020

£90

On this one day course you will learn to make hanging copperfoiled glass stars. You will have time to make three stars, varying in size from 11 – 19cm. If there is enough time, you can make additional stars, although there will be a charge for the extra materials. The course is a practical one and includes glass cutting, copper foiling and soldering. The day is suitable for any level of experience, including total beginners. All the materials and tools required for the course will be supplied. Included in the...

Gold AWARD

Making watercolours work for you at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 3rd August 2020

£245

This popular course is for anyone who has attended a ‘beginners’ course or painted with watercolours before and feels in need of new inspiration to make more progress. Everyone can expect to get fresh ideas on how to see and apply watercolour simply. Tuition will be through a mixture of demonstrations and individual guidance, according to your prior experience. The aim of the demonstrations will to be to show how the unique and illusive properties of watercolour – transparency and freshness – can be achieved. Subjects will be suggested both...

Gold AWARD

October colours with a sketchbook at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th October 2020

£50

Late summer flowers, leaves with a hint of autumn colour, seed heads with their different shapes, colours of brickwork and tiles, all these waiting to be captured in your sketchbook. You can spend the day on quick ideas or create one or two small pictures in the workroom from your gathered information. Course tutor: Jennifer Andrews Jennifer Andrews is a freelance painter and designer, who is also responsible for the borders in front of the Mill and Willy Lotts House. Training in art began at the Oxford School of Art...

Gold AWARD

Painting in oils: boats, harbours and estuaries at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th September 2020

£245

Estuaries painting in the studio and on location at some of the beautiful and inspiring harbours and rivers in Suffolk. John will demonstrate oil painting techniques, colour mixing, composition, and will give you lots of one to one help each day. Depending on the weather we may visit Woodbridge, Pin Mill, River Deben, River Orwell, and River Stour or potential visits to Wrabness or Shotley. Some work might be completed in the studio and there will be lots of reference photos available if needed. Please note: This course is non-residential...

Gold AWARD

Painting plants: autumn colours and designs at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 16th October 2020

£270

This studio-based flower painting course is equally suitable for beginners and those with some experience. It is an opportunity to create paintings or designs based on the autumn colours of late flowers, leaves and fruits. The use of pencil, pen and ink, watercolour and gouache on various paper surfaces will be discussed and there will be plenty of individual tuition to help you develop your own way of representing the subjects you select. You are welcome to bring your own design project if you wish. We will be based mainly...

Gold AWARD

Parchment craft: Christmas cards at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 11th December 2020

£270

Parchment Craft (also known as Pergamano) is the art of embellishing and decorating parchment paper, through the use of techniques such as embossing, perforating, stippling, cutting and colouring. If you are new to the craft you will learn how to trace and emboss enabling you to make some simple greeting cards. The tutor will supply you with some basic tools for a small fee if you want to try out this easy yet effective craft. You do not need any artistic ability because the cards are traced from patterns, which...

Gold AWARD

Pastel perfection at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 14th August 2020

£270

Soft pastels are a vibrant and exciting medium, ideal for capturing the colours and texture of the landscape or for painting the subtleties of a portrait. Carole’s enthusiastic and informative demonstrations will guide you through a range of exercises to develop and extend your pastel painting ability, looking at mark making, surfaces, colour mixing, blending as well as using pastels over watercolours or acrylics. You can be inspired to paint the surrounding idyllic landscape and buildings, or paint a portrait, working from your own or Carole’s photographs. Suitable for all...

Gold AWARD

Photography: developing your photographic skills at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 27th July 2020

£480

This course is ideal for photographers looking to release the potential of their cameras and their own creativity. To be able to reach your potential as a photographer you first need to master the camera, the first part of this course is designed to help you achieve this. By learning about the menus and the controls of your own camera you will be able to get the camera to work the way you want it to rather than the other way around. This course is open to all levels photographers...

Gold AWARD

Photography: landscape and 'outdoor' photography at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 14th April 2020

£395

This course is open to all levels of photographer, although a basic understanding of your camera menus would be useful but not essential. During the course we will cover creative use of depth of field, exposure, creative use of shutter speeds, focus modes, composition, the use of colour and light before moving on to more complex techniques such as focus stacking, High Dynamic Range (HDR), spot and manual metering, photographic filters and shooting a digital panoramic. Course tutor: Steve Hedges Steve has been a professional photographer for the last twenty-five...

Gold AWARD

Portraits for the absolute beginner at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 17th April 2020

£270

Through demonstrations and exercises, Carole will help demystify the art of portrait drawing and painting, enabling you to capture a likeness whether it is of a loved one, a grandchild or even a celebrity. We will start with a series of exercises analysing the features and proportions as well as looking at pose and composition, aiming to improve the way you see as well as improving your drawing skills. The second day you can work from your own references or Carole’s. A model will be available for those who wish...

Gold AWARD

Silver clay jewellery at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 6th June 2020

£120

Silver clay is magical, it contains fine silver particles embedded into a binder. This product enables you the flexibility of moulding clay and the ease of adding textures to create unique pieces of jewellery, whilst offering you the beauty of fine (hallmarkable) silver once fired, a real cheat for frustrated silversmiths. There are around £60 worth of materials included in the course fee, giving you the chance to use 10g of silver clay and silver paste to make up to three pieces of jewellery, plus the opportunity to try another...

Gold AWARD

Sketching and painting flowers in a Suffolk garden at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th August 2020

£480

Colour and texture are everywhere in the varied planting of Natalie Finch’s garden in East Bergholt and the borders at Flatford Mill. There is a relaxed but focused atmosphere on this course – you can wander with a sketchbook or settle down to paint, perhaps looking along a path or through an archway. Demonstrations will be given in pencil and pen drawing, watercolour, gouache and combinations of these techniques, with individual help always available. A little experience of working outside is useful. Fees are inclusive of entry and refreshments in...

Gold AWARD

Source to sea: painting the river Stour at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 31st August 2020

£500

Join watercolour painter Rob Dudley, author of ‘Painting Rivers from Source to Sea’, as he shares his tips and techniques for painting rivers. From information gathering and sketching on location to developing finished riverscapes back in the studio. Suitable for beginners and those with more experience in watercolour painting. Rivers have been an inspiration to artists for hundreds of years. From the fast moving upper reaches, bustling boat filled marinas to wide expansive estuaries. All have captivated the painters attention and been the starting point of many a great painting....

Gold AWARD

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Stained glass for beginners and near beginners at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 4th September 2020

£270

This practical, hands-on course is an introduction for beginners and will also welcome improvers who might appreciate the opportunity to expand their knowledge and develop their technique and creative ideas within a small group, under the supervision of an experienced tutor. Materials and methods will be introduced, and skills taught, to make and take home at least one piece of finished stained glass at the end of the weekend. Students should come prepared with an idea of what they want to make, either a drawing or a photograph of an...

Gold AWARD

Stained glass for the garden at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 11th September 2020

£270

This two-day course gives an opportunity to explore this traditional craft and to make a 25cm square flower panel using the leaded technique. The pattern is shown in the photographs, but there will be a choice of colours to use for the flower and background. You will be able to use ‘etching’ cream to make a frosted pattern on some of the glass. The tutor will provide packs of glass for you to choose from. All the other materials and tools you will need to complete your panel are also...

Gold AWARD

Stained glass: Christmas wreath at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 9th December 2020

£90

On this one day course you will make a copperfoiled glass Christmas wreath, (approximately 28cm diameter). The course is a practical one and includes glass cutting, copperfoiling and soldering. Refreshments and lunch served in the Mill dining room are also covered by the all-inclusive fee. The course is suitable for all levels, including beginners. Course tutor: Carole Gray Carole Gray is a designer and maker of decorative stained glass, who uses many of the traditional techniques practised by stained glass artists over the centuries to create work which is highly...

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Stained glass: make your own Christmas decorations at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th December 2020

£90

On this one day course you will learn to make hanging copperfoiled glass Christmas decorations. You will have time to make a parcel, stocking and sprig of holly. If you have time, you can make additional items, although there will be a charge for the extra materials. The course is a practical one and includes glass cutting, copper foiling and soldering. The day is suitable for any level of experience, including total beginners. Course tutor: Carole Gray Carole Gray is a designer and maker of decorative stained glass, who uses...

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The Green Fuse – creative writing in springtime at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th April 2020

£395

Re-discover the arrival of spring as its potent green fuse rouses the tranquil fields and hedgerows under the ever-changing Suffolk skies at Flatford. During this three day creative writing course, you will explore the secluded waterways, woods and paths where Constable once sketched to find your own creative response to the gnarled willows and reeds as they sprout anew in this most beautiful yet cruellest of seasons. Fresh imagery, insights and writing will be provoked through a combination of outdoor observation, dipping into memory and imagination, and by engaging with...

Gold AWARD

Trees, skies and water in acrylics at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 6th November 2020

£270

This course aims to show you a variety of techniques and approaches for depicting these essential elements of the landscape, whilst improving your ability and style. On Saturday, Carole will show you many ways to improve your skills through step by step exercises, which will include brush control, colour mixing, using a palette knife, blending, glazing, layering and use of gels and additives. On Sunday you can choose to work outside on a Flatford view or from your own reference. This course is suitable for all abilities. Course tutor: Carole...

Gold AWARD

Understanding perspective at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 28th August 2020

£395

This pen and ink drawing course covers the basics of drawing in perspective and rapidly takes you beyond these technical details into how your mind perceives space. It illustrates that perspective is in everything, but veers away from lots of dull perspective exercises showing you all of the ways in which you might choose to curve (or even ignore!) perspective. The weekend will include drawing exercises, indoor still life subjects and some simple outdoor architectural observational drawing exercises. This is a relatively fast-paced course: you will spend some time each...

Gold AWARD

Watercolour landscape sketching and painting at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th August 2020

£395

This sketching and painting course is specially designed for anyone who would like to learn how to use a sketchbook and watercolours to record memories of special places they visit and to create reference material which can be worked up into larger paintings at a later date. Students will be introduced to a variety of working methods so that they can find one which suits them that can be adapted to fit in with their life style and time available. Course tutor: Andrew Pitt Andrew Pitt has had many one-man...

Gold AWARD

Watercolour: awash with ideas! At Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 31st July 2020

£395

This mainly studio-based course is suitable for both beginners and those with more experience of watercolour. It is especially designed to help everyone develop and expand their range of watercolour techniques so you can make exciting and expressive paintings, full of colour and texture. This course is suitable for both beginners and those with more experience of watercolour. We will begin the weekend by looking at a selection of your previous work and discussing what you would like to achieve during your time with Siân. She would definitely encourage you...

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Watercolour: painting landscape and nature at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 14th August 2020

£270

Using the immediate grounds for inspiration, working inside and outside the studio Jeremy will spend time with each student offering encouragement, explaining and demonstrating various tips and techniques to assist in the learning process. With a wealth of experience Jeremy is the ideal tutor for the first-time painter as well as the advanced painter, adapting his one-to-one teaching to your individual needs. A highly versatile artist with over 30 years’ teaching experience, he will help you to learn and enjoy watercolour painting in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Course tutor:...

Gold AWARD

Weave a willow angel at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 11th December 2020

£70

Learn to weave this very popular willow angel which can be decorated with lights or any other touches that you would like to add to make it unique. This will be followed by weaving some traditional Christmas decorations. Course tutor: Deb Hart Deb has been weaving for over 20 years making large structures for the RHS and many garden designers. She has also been teaching for over 30 years in horticulture as well as weaving and sculpture. What to Bring All the materials will be supplied by the tutor but...

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Weave a willow pheasant at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 27th May 2020

£70

You will be able to master the construction of a basic bird base using English willow. This will then be transformed into a pheasant using a lovely random weave. Advice will be given on what sort of materials to use and where to buy them. Course tutor: Deb Hart Deb has been weaving for over 20 years making large structures for the RHS and many garden designers. She has also been teaching for over 30 years in horticulture as well as weaving and sculpture. What to Bring Wear layers in...

Gold AWARD

Weaving Christmas decorations for willow at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 10th December 2020

£70

Participants will learn how to create a willow wreath base which they will decorate with evergreen material and some festive items such as orange slices, basic ribbon, cones and apples these will be provided but please feel free to bring some of your own; such as: cinnamon sticks, apple slices, specific ribbon, walnuts or any other things you would like to incorporate. Course tutor: Deb Hart Deb has been weaving for over 20 years making large structures for the RHS and many garden designers. She has also been teaching for...

Gold AWARD

Weaving with recycled materials at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 25th May 2020

£70

On this day course you will be following directions and coaching to enable you to learn how to make a bag with recycled card using a technique called plaiting. If time allows during the final day we will coil some mats with recycled materials as well to give you more practice before trying it at home. Course tutor: Deb Hart Deb has been weaving for over 20 years making large structures for the RHS and many garden designers. She has also been teaching for over 30 years in horticulture as...

Gold AWARD

Winter landscapes in oils at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 7th December 2020

£480

We will be painting some of the winter landscapes around Flatford Mill, together with some scenes from further afield. Students will have the opportunity to adopt a slightly more contemporary approach, whilst also learning and practising a variety of techniques associated with oils. Course tutor: Kevin Scully Kevin is an illustrator, artist and painting tutor on workshops, art courses and painting holidays at home and abroad. He trained at Wimbledon School of Art and has exhibited widely and travelled extensively. What to Bring Your usual oil painting equipment including a...

Gold AWARD

Wonderful water soluble pencils: painting and drawing at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 4th September 2020

£270

If you have a set of water soluble pencils and don’t know how to use them, then this course is for you! The joy of using water soluble pencils is that they covers both drawing and watercolour painting and are an extremely versatile medium. Through simple step-by-step demonstrations Carole will show you a wide variety of techniques for painting still life, buildings and landscapes as well as refreshing some essential drawing skills and concepts. It is suitable for all abilities. There will be a demonstration after supper on Saturday. Course...

Gold AWARD

Woodblock printmaking at Flatford Mill

Suffolk - Next course on 11th December 2020

£270

Using the stunning landscape and natural environment of Flatford Mill as inspiration, this practical and hands-on course will introduce you to woodblock printing techniques. We will be using drawing as a starting point for investigating relief printmaking techniques that do not require specialist equipment to produce, and that you will be able to continue in your own time at home. Participants will be encouraged to develop their own designs and to work at their own pace in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The course is suitable for beginners. By the...