Experience the joy and challenges of painting ‘en plein air’ at the scenic Wittenham Clumps as you capture the beauty of the natural world on canvas.
Led by experienced local artist, Paul Whitehouse, this workshop will blend indoor sessions with outdoor ‘plein air’ painting to help you refine your appreciation of the local landscape. Paul, a member of the Oxford Art Society and Reading Guild of Artists and a participant in Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2021, will guide you through this artistic exploration.
Participants will be encouraged to ‘notice what they notice’ when observing the landscape, capturing these observations through drawing and painting. This workshop aims to equip you with the foundational skills needed to paint in oils independently. You’ll learn basic techniques, colour mixing, the essentials of composition, and gain practical experience painting ‘en plein air’ around the beautiful Wittenham Clumps.
Course overview:
Day 1 (Indoors and Outdoors ):
- Introduction to observing the natural world through the lens of art, exploring the artistic legacy of Paul Nash.
- Overview of materials and basic colour mixing techniques.
- Outdoor session focused on creating quick thumbnail sketches and observing the local landscape.
Day 2 Mainly Outdoors (weather permitting):
- Recap of day one and developing compositions through sketching.
- Practical experience of painting en plein air, working on 1-2 canvases.
- Group critique and ‘wash-up’ session to discuss learnings and share feedback.
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an artist looking to refine your skills, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to landscape painting in oils, enriched by the natural beauty of Earth Trust’s surroundings. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to enhance your artistic abilities and deepen your connection with the natural world through the timeless medium of oil painting.
About Paul Whitehouse:
Paul is a local artist who specialises in capturing unique views of the natural landscape in oils. He is an Oxford Art Society and Reading Guild of Artists member, and was a participant in Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2021.
Spaces are limited, so we do advise booking early to avoid disappointment.
Event details:
Date: Friday 13th – Sat 14th September
Time: 10am-4pm (with a break for lunch)
Venue: Earth Trust Centre and Wittenham Clumps
Suitability: Adults and young people aged 16+
Other information: Some hill walking over uneven terrain is required, so please wear suitable footwear. This will get messy! Please wear/bring aprons or old clothes. Teas/coffees and light snacks will be available to purchase, but please bring a packed lunch both days.
Recommended materials: Palette knife, tear-off palette pad, student-grade oil paints, assorted flat brushes, 3 x A3 Canvas boards. A full materials list will be sent to you with your ticket order confirmation.
Tickets:
Option A – All art materials will be provided: £230
Option B – Bring your own paints and brushes – additional materials, such as charcoal sticks, an easel, white spirit, drawing board and masking tape, will be provided: £165
