About this course

On this Watercolour beginners course in Sevenoaks students will be introduced to fundamental watercolour techniques to provide an initial skill base upon which to build. Classes will be relaxed and friendly and involve experimentation with a range of techniques in a structured tutor led programme.
By working from both direct observation and from photographic references and sketches, you will encounter a variety of interesting and stimulating subject matter - landscape, still life, natural forms, etc. Reference will also be made to the work of other artists as appropriate.
By the end of the course you should be able to:
Work from a variety of primary and secondary subject matter.
Make a preliminary drawing to establish a composition.
Select and use the appropriate brushes and materials.
Mix colours using basic colour theory.
Use a range of watercolour techniques, e.g. washes, glazes, drybrush, wet in wet, impasto, etc.
Recognise the styles and techniques of watercolour artists.

How will I be taught?

Tutors will use a variety of teaching methods including demonstrations, one to one guidance, group discussions and critiques. You will look at the work of contemporary and historical artists and you will keep a sketchbook/notebook and individual learning plan (ILP) to record goals, ideas, processes and progress.Students will need to understand the potential benefit from the programme of study, read and interpret ideas, communicate responses that are clear, logical and understandable and manage your own time.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring to your first lesson

-a round brush preferably a no 12 sable brush ( Daler Rowney graduate)
- three tubes of paint, preferably cadnium red or vermillion , cadnium yellow and ultramarine (Student quality is fine eg. Winsor & Newton Cotman)
-either 300gm NOT/ cold pressed watercolour paper or change (£1.80) to buy some at the centre.

If you already have paints or brushes similar to above then please just bring those.

Your tutor will then advise you about further materials and where to buy them

What can I do next?

Another watercolour course

What do I need to join the course

Those with little or no experience of using watercolour.
Watercolour Beginners is for those with little experience. It is important to note art courses are practical and require a degree of manual dexterity for you to participate fully and get the most out of the course. If you need to bring a carer with you or be accompanied by another person, please ask to speak to the Programme Manager before you enrol.