Sketchbooks: ideas, materials and techniques

What is the course about?

Explore experimental mixed-media techniques in a sketchbook, using drawing, painting and collage. Looking at artist’s work and developing personal themes you will experiment with materials, processes and image-making. Some drawing experience would be an advantage.

This course aims to develop the experience of experimental mixed media in a sketchbook, through the use of drawing, painting and collage. By looking at artist’s work and developing personal themes you will experiment with materials, processes and image making, in an expressive and creative way. Some drawing experience would be an advantage. Projects may be interpreted in either an abstract or more literal manner.

The course may appeal to anyone interested in mixed media, but also suggests links with fine art, sculpture and textiles.

What will we cover?

• Mark-making and creating surfaces for collage.
• Experimental drawing using line, tone and texture.
• Mixed media using drawing, painting and collage.
• The sketchbook seen as an art object.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Explore mark-making as a personal means of expression.
• Experiment with expressive drawing techniques.
• Work with mixed-media techniques, combining drawing, painting and collage.
• Create individual themes.


• Explore mark-making as a personal means of expression.
• Experiment with expressive drawing techniques.
• Work with mixed-media techniques, combining drawing, painting and collage.
• Create individual themes.• Explore mark-making as a personal means of expression.
• Experiment with expressive drawing techniques.
• Work with mixed-media techniques, combining drawing, painting and collage.
• Create individual themes.

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

The course is for all levels. Beginners are welcome but previous drawing experience is useful.

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

• Demonstration, group discussions, handouts, practical work, one to one tuition.

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

• You will be required to bring one A4 sketchbook, for the course. Book bound or spiral, portrait or landscape with good quality cartridge paper is appropriate. Any other sketchbooks you may have, of a different scale or surface, (such as watercolour) can also be used. All other basic materials will be supplied, but if you have additional drawing or colour materials you would like to try, please bring them along.

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

contemporary art sketchbook walk, large scale sketchbook courses, sketchbook introduction to visual journey, mixed media and drawing projects and more.