In-person course
in Suffolk Maker & location details

Introduction to Watercolours at Flatford Mill

Improve your watercolours at Flatford Mill

Description

Explore the world of watercolour with Andrew Pitt for ‘Introduction to Watercolours’. The purpose of this course is to explain the best way to start painting 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. This course is for anyone interested in learning to paint in watercolour from scratch. It is designed to teach basic skills and to give you the confidence to enjoy the fascinating medium of watercolour. More experienced painters are welcome if they feel they need a fresh injection of enthusiasm. You will be shown how to handle the materials and although watercolour can be frustrating, it is nevertheless an endlessly fascinating and enjoyable medium. The aim of the course will be to show, using practical demonstrations, how a simple straight forward painting method can be an effective way of achieving an attractive, fresh-looking watercolour painting. The purpose of demonstrations is to show students the full potential of pure watercolour and how attractive paintings can be produced by adopting a surprisingly simple and straight forward painting method. Andrew will also probably destroy many myths that seem to surround this medium. - About the tutor: Andrew Pitt Andrew Pitt has been painting landscapes since he was eleven. He has had over twenty one-man exhibitions and has been teaching and demonstrating painting techniques for over 40 years. Andrew is particularly well known for his simple, direct teaching methods and the clarity of his explanations. He has contributed many articles to The Leisure Painter magazine and has made an instructional film for Town House Films and his book, ‘Seasons and Reflections: Notes on painting in Watercolour’ was published in 2019. He exhibits at The Serena Hall Gallery in Southwold and has written two books on watercolour painting: “Seasons and Reflections: Notes on Painting in Watercolour” and more recently, “How to Paint Fresh, loose Watercolours”. In his teaching he not only shows students how to paint but, more importantly, he clearly explains what he is doing and thinking as he demonstrates. - What to bring. Bring any painting equipment you already have. The following are suggestions only and describe the equipment Andrew will use. There is certainly no need to purchase everything. It is best if you are completely new to watercolour to purchase the minimum of painting materials first and see what Andrew uses. You will then be able to find out what suits you. There are several full length free-to-watch video demonstrations, including a video about painting materials on Andrew’s website: www.andrewpitt.co.uk Brushes - You will need one round (very) large brush for skies and a medium and small brush that point well for detail. So three brushes, probably in the size range 3 – 12. Natural hair (sable or squirrel) is best – avoid synthetic/nylon hair if you can. Colours - Either pan colours (in small plastic holders) or tube colours are suitable – tubes are the easiest and most convenient to use. Andrew will use the following tube colours: Ultramarine Blue, Raw Sienna, Burnt Sienna, Prussian Blue, Light Red, Burnt Umber, Cobalt Blue, Cadmium Yellow, Viridian Green, Alizarin Crimson Feel free to add a few personal favourites as well. They help give your painting an individual look. Paper - It is essential that you bring paper made specifically for watercolour painting. A suitable make called Bockingford is obtainable in most art shops. You may also like to bring a small pad of cartridge paper for making quick sketches and notes. Arches watercolour paper is also good with either a Not or Rough surface. Try to use paper which is at least 140lb in weight i.e. thickness, to ensure it doesn’t buckle when wet. Pencils - Please bring at least a 3B or softer pencil. Other materials - Please bring a watercolour palette to hold and mix your paint in; a water bottle and water container. Bring an easel if you have one, but the Centre does provide drawing boards and table easels. A soft eraser, masking tape and tissues/kitchen roll will all be useful. Optimists should bring a sun hat. Everyone should bring warm clothes. Other Items - The Centre will provide drawing boards. They also have small sketching stools and easels for hire at a small charge if required. About Flatford Mill We have four buildings that are used for visitor accommodation. Whilst most rooms are either en-suite or have a dedicated bathroom, there are some rooms in The Mill that share showers and toilets at the end of the hall. If this is un-suitable for you please make the office staff aware upon booking or as soon as possible. Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory style, but warm and comfortable. Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory style, but warm and comfortable.

What's included in the price?

Expert tuition Free Wi-Fi Full board accommodation Hot and cold drinks Full board accommodation and picnic lunch is available for resident bookings only. Refreshments are included for all, but non-resident bookings are advised to bring lunch with you.