Watercolour painting studio: urban landscapes

What is the course about?

The first session takes place in the studio at the City Lit where you will be introduced to basic watercolour paint and brushwork approaches. We then will spend each week at a location in central London painting different aspects of the urban environment. For example, we will go to Embankment Gardens to focus on nature and architectural details. Another session will be based on the South Bank to be inspired by the river Thames and it’s bridges. A full list of locations will be given to you at the start of the course.

What will we cover?

• Working on a series of short studies, painting from observation within the city
• Colour mixing and layering washes to create a sense of depth within a composition.
• An exploration of mark making and brushwork to portray different details e.g. skies, buildings, trees, leaves, water and bridges.
• Watercolour paint and brushwork techniques to create a sense of depth e.g. wet on wet or dry brush.
• Atmospheric perspective and how to explore it within a watercolour painting.
• An introduction to watercolour artists who paint ‘en plein air’.

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

• Use a range of watercolour techniques to paint details within the urban environment.
• Mix and layer colours to create a sense of place.
• Identify light and shadows within a composition.
• Portray atmospheric perspective using watercolour paint.

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

The course is aimed for refreshers or students who have had a minimum amount of watercolour experience. It would be useful to know one or two techniques. There will be some walking involved on the course and we will be outside except for the first day.

You should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may be encouraged to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.

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

• Practical work in the studio and in-situ within the city.
• Short demonstrations
• Handouts
• One-to–one tutoring
• Group discussion.

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

Basic materials and resources are provided as part of this course, including watercolour paint, brushes and paper appropriate for the medium. Students will need to buy a watercolour pad A2/3 size for working outside. Students are welcome to bring any additional specialist materials.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.
To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. Student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/.

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

Further courses in watercolour painting courses include Watercolour Painting Studio: still Life, Watercolour: mixed media techniques, Drawing into Watercolour Painting, Developing Watercolour Painting and Watercolour Painting Studio: nature and colour.