Description
In this course we will delve into the magical enchanted world of fairies, take a look at how they have been painted historically and use these inspiring references to create our own characters. I am passionate about creating fairy characters, something that doesn’t have to be realistic but full of enchantment. I am greatly inspired by the art of ‘The flower fairies’ by Cicely Mary Barker, Arthur Rackham, Pre-Raphaelite artists and my favourite Shakespeare play ‘A Midsummer Nights Dream’. I love using watercolour inks to create diaphanous textures and the airy and delicate feeling of these mythical characters. The skills we will build in this course are: - How to depict faces and expression. - Capturing movement of the body and texture of clothing. - Using historical references to create new artworks. - Using vibrant watercolour inks. - Using Dip pens and Fineliners for linear work and delicate details. - Composition of illustrations. Week 1 - ‘Faces’ An introduction to drawing and painting faces to build a sense of character and how to draw facial features. Using examples of my own artworks and those of Pre-Raphaelites artists, etc. I will demonstrate and provide reference material at the start of each session. Week 2 - ‘Figures and Fabric’ Introduction to drawing and painting figures in movement and creating textures of fabric. I will demonstrate using washes of colour how to build the sense of weight and movement, how to create figures moving in a fluid way. Week 3 - ‘Fairies’ My own fairy characters have been greatly influenced by the Pre-Raphaelite artists. I am especially inspired by the compositions, the way they painted fabrics and the mythical stories the artworks are based on. Taking this and my own fairy characters as inspiration, we will create our own original artworks. I will demonstrate the ways I create a character and how to develop your own style. Week 4- ‘Fairies and Nature’ Fairies and nature come hand in hand, inspired by the iconic characters of Cicely Mary Barkers ‘Flower Fairies’ and my own fairy characters, we will create artworks surrounded by our favourite flowers or based on our favourite season. I will demonstrate how to use a dip pen and layers of ink to build up the colours and depth and add detail. Week 5 - ‘Illustrative style’ Inspired by Arthur Rackham’s fairy illustrations, in particular his Peter Pan artworks, we will create black and white and tonal works with dip pens and ink over tea stained papers. I will demonstrate how to paint tonally, using decorative detail to add interest. Week 6 - ‘Underwater fairytales’ The classic fairytale ‘The Little Mermaid’ by Hans Christian Andersen has inspired many imaginative paintings and illustrations. Using a mythical underwater world as inspiration we will create our own mermaid character. I will demonstrate with finalisers and dip pens how to build texture and depth through linear techniques. The course cost includes a fountain dip pen with various nibs for you to use and keep. Lots of equipment including coloured inks, is also provided for you to try.
What's included in the price?
- A fountain dip pen with various nibs for you to use and keep. - Lots of equipment including coloured inks, is also provided for you to use. - Unlimited hot drinks. - Sweet treats. - Tuition and a recording of the live demonstration each week. - Supportive WhatsApp group to share progress.
Duration
2½ hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Dr Helen Jones has 14 years art teaching experience. Helen achieved a 1st Class honours in Fine Art and continues to be a practicing Artist from her home studio in Chester. She completed an MA in Art Education and then completed a Doctorate in the subject. She has delivered adult art workshops nationally and offers regular art classes and workshops in Chester through her small business The Art Doctor UK founded in 2021. Helen has also taught art in Tuscany, the Congo, Rome and Finland. She has a warm and encouraging nature.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Limited mobility
- Learning difficulties (SEN)
- Intermediate level
- Romantic
- Mother's Day
- Parking provided
- Suitable for beginners
