Introduction to watercolour: nocturnes

Learn to use specific watercolour paints and techniques to capture the excitement of dusk and night-time in the city. One session takes place at City Lit, with the rest off-site. Some experience in watercolour recommended.

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Key course information

Dates
26/10/11 - 23/11/11

Day(s)
Wed

Duration
5 weeks

Time
18:00 - 21:00

Fees
Full fee: £121
Senior fee: £121
Concession: £62

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VM639

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700

Course outline

What is the course about?

The course is designed to learn to paint watercolours in the city at night. We will paint reflections and shapes of buildings, taking note of the intense and dramatic contrasts that the night time light will present. You will be encouraged to simplify and abstract the city and the Thames. The first week will be at the City Lit where an introduction to watercolour techniques and mark-making specifically aimed at nocturnes will take place. During the following four weeks we will be painting in situ different aspects of the city and the Thames.

What topics will we cover?

There will be demonstrations in basic watercolour mixing and mark-making in relation to nocturnal watercolours. Also we will look at different watercolour papers and art historical sources referring to artists who have worked in the genre of nocturnes such as Whistler and Turner. We will paint in the city, depicting buildings, bridges and the urban landscape.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

• mix watercolours specifically in relation to nocturnal scenes
• use appropriate mark making techniques in watercolour
• make watercolour sketches and paintings in a specific time frame
• have confidence in developing a personal use of watercolour.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is geared to students who have had some watercolour experience before. This course is also open to students who wish to have a bit of a challenge. Also you will need warm clothing when we are painting outside and a spirit of adventure.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

e.g. Talks, practical work, demonstrations, individual tutoring, group discussion.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

We provide a small amount of watercolour paint plus mediums to use during the course. You will need to buy watercolour brushes and paper/watercolour sketch books. On the first session the sketchbooks can be bought from the City Lit and advice will be given on watercolour brushes and where to buy them.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You can enrol on the Themes and Ideas watercolour classes to paint life figures, still life or urban watercolours in the day time.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

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