10:00 - 16:00

Level: Beginner

In this workshop we will take our inspiration from the decorative traditions of Chinese Gongbi painting – a more controlled and layered form of Chinese brush painting. Popular in Europe during Victorian times, it is a very stylised form of artwork depicting trees, blossoms, birds and landscapes. Chinoiserie encompassed many things including furniture and ceramics as well as art - which was often painted on a grand scale and used in much the same way as we would use wallpaper today.

We will be working on a much smaller scale! During the session we will complete a series of exercises exploring colour mixing, stylization of imagery, consistency of paint, layering and fine detail – plus a tiny bit of shimmer and shine! And there will be a few tips and tricks along the way. We will then make a start on a simple composition using the techniques covered, for you to finish in your own time – or possibly scale up and paint a whole wall!

This is a slow-paced detailed project so you may not get it finished within this session, but you will have all the techniques needed to continue at your own pace to create a beautiful picture.

What to bring:

• Watercolour paper (cold-pressed or ‘Not’ surface) or mixed media paper (enough for some exercises and final painting)

• Watercolours or gouache – primaries plus white gouache. (tutor will also bring some)

• Selection of soft brushes (I use soft synthetics) including a medium and small round and a fine brush for detail. (tutor will also bring some for you to borrow)

• Optional: White and gold fine pens such as gel pens or Posca pens if you have them for decorative touches and/or gold or iridescent paint and a fine brush

• A soft pencil (HB or 2B) and an eraser, mixing palette (a plate is fine)

Included on the day:

• Any other materials not specified for the students to bring

• Expert tuition

• 1 to 1 guidance

• Detailed demonstrations

• A selection of tea, freshly brewed coffee, biscuits and delicious cakes

And of course you take your wonderful creations from the day. If you share any photographs of your day here and/or your finished work, we’d love to see them so please tag us @micklemsfarmcreativeworkshops or use the hashtag #micklemsfarmcreativeworkshops.

Terms - Fee is payable on booking. If, having booked, you can no longer attend, we are unable to offer a refund. However, you may nominate someone else to attend the workshop or class in your place by notifying us using the contact page on the Micklems Farm website. We reserve the right to cancel a workshop up to 48 hours prior to the workshop date. We will only cancel due to insufficient places sold and you will be refunded the full amount paid.

Number of students: 10