This course is suitable for complete beginners as well as the experienced artist. The central aim is to unlock and develop an inquisitive attitude towards the making of art.

During the week you will be able to explore the relationships between different materials which may happen either by chance or by design. Two or more materials will be applied within the same work and demonstrations will be readily available to support your progress.

You will find inspiration from a number of sources; the subconscious mind in the form of dreams and life experiences, and the conscious mind in the form of photographs, magazines and direct observation from the local environment.

The materials themselves will also prove to be ideal starting points for work and there will be opportunities to be creative in three dimensions.

Examples of other artists' work will be used to promote discussion and to enrich appreciation and computers will be available for manipulating images using Photoshop.

Many types of painting and drawing materials will be provided e.g. oil, water colour, acrylics, pastels, inks, charcoal and pens. A variety of surfaces are available such as panels, canvases and water colour papers. Sketchbooks are also provided.

Please bring a digital camera if you have one.

If you enjoy taking risks and wish to learn new skills and techniques in a supportive and stimulating atmosphere then this art course is for you.

"I want to give you my most sincere thanks, for without your superb teaching and empowering encouragement I would have had neither the confidence to apply to Art College nor any work to show them."

Catherine Alexander