On this half-day drawing and painting workshop, Niki will guide you through observation techniques and drawing, sketching and watercolour methods including capturing perspective, creating depth and contrast, using colour wash and mark making. We’ll look at the joy of recreating our love of plants and gardens through art and of recording directly from nature.

Course taught indoors and out in a small group to ensure time for personal attention. We will work directly from life out in the fields or even in the polytunnels amongst the vegetables where weather permits, with the comfort of a warm room to retreat to when necessary! Explore different materials including pencils and watercolours. The workshop will teach techniques and methods which will build confidence in working outdoors, directly observing from nature.

What to expect: The workshops will give guidance and tuition on different methods and approaches to drawing, sketching and watercolour. We'll begin indoors with opportunity to practice and ask questions before going outside to begin drawing directly from nature, ‘en plein air’. We will aim to spend a couple of hours outside in the fields, weather depending.

What to bring: Suitable clothing and footwear for walking and sitting outside. Layers are advised and a light waterproof. Something to sit on, either camping stool or picnic mat or gardening kneeler are all recommended depending on what you feel happy to carry. Any art materials you wish to bring. A water bottle for both your own refreshment and to top up your painting water. Please bring snacks as you wish! Tea and coffee will be available.