Beginners Art Course Spring 2027
Discover Your Artistic Potential
Ready to start your creative journey? This 10-week Beginner’s Art Course is designed for those with less art experience. Learn foundational techniques while exploring a variety of mediums in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Location
The De Vitre Room, The Cornerstone, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE
What You’ll Learn:
Drawing & Observation Skills
Build confidence in capturing shapes, proportions, detail, texture and tone.
Colour Theory & Mixing
Understand the basics of colour relationships to bring vibrancy to your artwork. Get to know about blending and colour application.
Painting Techniques
Explore different media including watercolours, acrylics, pastels, and coloured inks and lots more.
Project Schedule
British packaging favourites in mixed media & inks
20th & 27th January
Students are introduced to the work of artist Georgina Luck and create a lively still life of much-loved British packaging, working from direct observation. They explore mixed media and inks, using Brusho crystals, masking fluid, dipping pens and fine line pens to capture bold colour, lettering, detail and texture.
Spring landscape in acrylics, inspired by artist Sandy Dooley
3rd & 10th February
Students look at the work of artist Sandy Dooley and use photographic references to create an expressive spring landscape. They build up layers of colour and texture in acrylics, using palette knives and water sprays to blend, scrape and soften their paint. They also learn about composition and creating depth.
Half-term break (no class) Wednesday 17th February
Woodland landscape with a stream in oil pastel resist, watercolour & gouache
24th February & 3rd March
Students create an atmospheric woodland scene with a winding stream. They use oil pastel resist to build up texture, then add layers of watercolour and gouache. They learn how the resist technique works and how to build depth and light in a landscape.
Ammonite study in graphite and coloured pencils
10th & 17th March
Students study the spiral form of a fossil ammonite from observation. They focus on proportion, pattern, tone and texture, building the drawing in graphite before adding colour with coloured pencils. They learn shading and blending techniques to give their piece a realistic, three-dimensional finish.
Goldfinch bird portrait in soft pastels on mixed media paper
24th & 31st March
Students create a detailed portrait of a goldfinch on mid-tone mixed media paper. They use soft pastels, charcoal and a white chalk pencil to capture the feathers, colour and character of the bird. They focus on proportion, adding highlights, and blending and layering the pastels.
What’s Included
All high-quality art materials are provided.
Expert instruction from professional artist and tutor, Caroline Crawford.
Coffee, tea and biscuits, plus free on-site parking.
Personal feedback and a friendly, creative community.
Who This Course Is For?
Perfect for complete beginners or those looking to refresh their basic art skills. No prior experience is necessary. If you are unsure if this course is right for you please get in touch and we can discuss your skill level to find the right course for you.
“I started painting and drawing at Caroline's beginner classes a few years ago and now attend the intermediate class. I really enjoy the variety of projects and the different mediums we use. Caroline is a wonderful, patient and encouraging teacher and I have found her classes are a space to relax and enjoy time out from a busy life. I have also made new friends!” - Pam Scott