This course is suitable for beginners and improvers and for those wishing to develop techniques or new ways of working whether that be figurative or abstract. The course has been devised and is directed by art coach K Kennedy, founder of Go Create and painter of 25 years.

The aim of the course is to have fun with painting, to teach technique to support progression but most importantly to draw out individual developing styles. Mornings will include structured tutorials to support beginners as they progress from still life to build up core skills and confidence before tackling subjects of their choice or working on different substrates). Those with more experience are welcome to sit in, dip in on select topics or to continue with studio practice). Throughout the week you’ll be encouraged to gather inspiration and to develop sketchbook practice to feed into the development of your own style and painting progression. In the afternoons. In the afternoons,  students will be encouraged to work on projects (although tutors will be on hand to offer one:to:one support and guidance where needed). Later in the week students will be given the option to remain studio based or for those wishing to take advantage of the location to get outdoors to develop initial sketches, paintings or to gather source material.

Taught morning sessions (optional) and exercises comprise the following:

• An examination of contemporary approaches to painting and drawing
• Acrylic or oil introduction
• Substrates and surface preparation
• Colour theory and mixing (don’t worry we make it fun and intuitive)
• Tools and equipment
• Health and safety
• Colour palettes, different types and how to develop your own
• How to plan up a painting
• How to see and use tone
• Sketchbook development/practice
• Professional painting and presentation hints and tips
• Plain air painting and outdoor sketching advice and suggested equipment
• Working with secondary source material
• Abstraction methods and techniques
• Experimental approaches and exercises

Please note that some acrylic experience is recommended prior to oil usage.  For this reason our oil introduction will be run at the start on day one for those with prior acrylic knowledge who are ready to dive straight in. Also on day 3 any beginner wishing to experiment with oils.

This is a fabulous course which will truly help to develop your talents and abilities. All teaching methods have been tried and tested with great success. Throughout the week you’ll be coached by experienced artists/tutors including Kirsty Kennedy who will help you discover and draw out your own developing style.

The studio is located in Central Margate, close to the Main Sands, Dreamland, The Old Town and The Turner Contemporary. Margate is full of trendy bars and places to eat. We’ll break for one hours lunch each day. Time to grab a bite or sit on the beach. Further advise on things to do and where to potentially stay will be sent out upon course booking.