Abstract painting weekend
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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
- Start Date: 26 Jul 2025End Date: 27 Jul 2025Sat-Sun (Daytime): 10:00 - 17:00In PersonFull fee £199.00 Senior fee £159.00 Concession £129.00
- Start Date: 20 Sep 2025End Date: 21 Sep 2025Sat-Sun (Daytime): 10:00 - 17:00In PersonLocation: Keeley StreetDuration: 2 sessions (over -2 weeks)Course Code: VM944Full fee £209.00 Senior fee £167.00 Concession £136.00
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What is the course about?
This course begins with a short illustrated talk on abstraction, setting the scene for a series of short projects that explore line, tone, composition, colour and paint handling. You will practise ways of painting expressively (directly), as well as structured techniques for developing a painting in layers. Be prepared to take a few risks, have fun, and participate in discussing ideas as a group.
What will we cover?
- Starting points for abstraction - music, objects, photo-collage
- Introducing the elements of form – line, shape, tone, colour, texture
- Mixing and applying paint; inventing a range of marks
- Composition and visual rhythm
- A personal project piece using layered techniques.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Practise three different routes into abstraction
- Use line, shape and tone to create visual depth and rhythm
- Demonstrate improved skills in mixing colour
- Use a range of tools for applying paint in varied marks
- Gain confidence in reviewing and developing your composition and ideas.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory course - some general painting experience is useful but not essential. Colour-mixing and paint application techniques will be covered.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The main focus is on practical painting activities with some contextual background. You will be encouraged to participate in discussing ideas as a group.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
An A4 Sketchbook is useful for planning ideas, colour notes, and building reference.
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When I've finished, what course can I do next?
'Exploring and explaining abstract painting', 'Ways into abstract painting', 'Sketchbook development' and 'Introduction to printmaking' - or monotypes.
Amanda Knight studied Botanical, Medical and Natural History illustration at Falmouth School of Art in pre-digital times when encyclopaedias graced bookshelves and Infographics upheld an applied mode of 2D practice. On graduation, Amanda worked freelance in industry, notably at Helicopter studios in Soho, with clients in publishing, advertising and design. She also took her first steps in Adult Teacher training, working as a part-time teacher of A-level art. Community Arts and personal Fine-Art practice gradually replaced industry with freer avenues, accompanied by post-graduate study at Central Saint Martins (2000). Amanda also studied on the transformative City Lit Fine Art course for which she is now joint Course Co-ordinator. Amanda has experience of art-fair and gallery sales, represented by Stark Gallery from 2005-2012. Subsequent project work has seen a return involvement with contemporary, socially driven arts projects and fringe artist communites such as Teatro Vivo, Urban Art and Deptford X. She has twice been selected for inclusion in Creekside Open, and accepted into professional studio groups Brookmill Studios and Deptford Foreshore.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.