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• The full course – generally lasting five days – allows artists to focus on finding their own painting direction without interruption or distraction.

The focus is on why we are driven to paint a subject - we look at the feeling it engenders within us and then aim to create authentic feelings in our paintings.

A "virtual gallery" of other artists' work is used together with talks and illustrations by me to open up why we paint and what we do. As the course proceeds students feel released to explore their own ideas and directions.

Shapes, Colour (pure grayed, and muted), Tone, Line and Texture are all explored to find what is right for a particular student.

I demonstrate but not to show you my way but to help you find your way. I show how to paint to achieve what you want - not by following rules - but to with confidence and determination to find your own way.

Course members work together and share their results to the benefit of everyone. It is fun and constructive.

For many it has produced amazing advances.

The next course is scheduled for 5th. August - 9th. August 2013 in Preston Montford, Shropshire. Please use the CONTACT and NEWS tab opposite to enquire about rates, accommodation and to reserve a place.

 

• Workshops are tailored to suit a particular art society or group. Typically, they run for a day up to a long weekend.

The goal, as usual,is to help artists to find their own way to paint.

The workshop begins with a short discussion exploring what draws us to a subject and makes us want to paint it. This pull or connection is a feeling; students then paint that "feeling" with me in support. As the workshop progresses students become more engaged with their work and are excited by their "new" paintings.

Further tuition explores how shapes, colour and tone can be used to create different feelings and students experiment to help themselves to find out what is right for them.

Students leave the workshop with an understanding of what makes a painting individual and personal, and what it is that holds the viewer's attention. They feel better equipped to paint their own personal paintings.

Contact me by clicking on the Contact & News link in this web site for the schedule.

 

Typically an at society session lasts about two and a half hour and during this time I -

• explain my approach to painting and how I discovered it
• illustrate how I address a painting and articulate my thought processes and decisions as I paint
• discuss the satisfaction and reward of painting
• look at the blockers and side roads that can detract us from our aim.

The emphasis is on finding one's own way to paint, not copying mine.

• One to One tuition allows students to go at their own pace and to have undivided attention from me.

The goal to find their own direction is addressed entirely for the individual student's needs and I prepare each session specifically for that student.

What inspires students to paint and what they really want to paint is explored and clarified at each session. At the close students feel they have taken serious steps along their painting road. They understand much better what is driving them to paint and they have the wherewithal to move forward.

Shapes, Colour, Tone, Line and the other elements of a painting are explored as required, always with the emphasis on creating authentic feelings. The need for Dominance and the power of some elements over others is examined too.

Typically five or six sessions of two to three hours duration create a feeling of confidence to continue alone. Students often return for a session later to keep on track.

My charge is £25 per hour. Use the link "Contact and News" to get in touch or for more details.

• Constructive critiques of an artist's work can be very beneficial and with the help of technology I can offer my services to fellow artists online.

Send me images of between five and ten pieces of your latest work, together with a statement of your Intent as a painter. I will examine them and comment on:-

Content: the feeling intended: is it evident? How are you expressing it?

Consistency: are your paintings showing individuality or are you seeking it still? Where might you want to concentrate and where might not be right for you.

Points to Ponder: I avoid making suggestions as they are often taken as directions which defeat the object which is to help you with your own direction; but I may have interesting points for you to consider.

Emphasis: The seven elements of a painting allow us to express our Content. Some need emphasis and some do not work well together. I will comment on your use of elements.

I charge £60 for a critique. Payment can be via PayPal or a choose Please get in touch by clicking on the link "Contact & News" in this web site.