Nestle in Landscape - mixed media art workshop

Create your own unique interpretation of the landscape using Chinese brush painting

Come and observe the unique landmarks of Bere Marsh Farm in Dorset, and be inspired to create.

Have you ever wondered how artists develop their work to make it unique? Genny will share her passion for Chinese brush painting and demonstrate how she paints local landscapes through an Asian lens.

In this workshop you will nestle beneath Hambledon Hill on the banks of the river Stour, appreciating the natural beauty of farmland in tune with nature in all its diversity. First, you will observe the landscape elements around you. Then, you will explore a variety of painting tools and techniques in the Barn.

This is a multi-media art workshop with our feet on the earth and our head in the clouds. The aim is to enjoy the process, leave perfectionism behind, and experiment. It suits all abilities. If you’re new to painting, you’re in the right place to start.

What does the workshop involve?

• Observe and sketch landmarks of Bere Marsh Farm outdoors; loose lines, no detail;
• Learn how to sketch like the Dutch artist, Rembrandt, with dip pen and ink;
• Paint with tea bags and sticks;
• Use a variety of papers, including unsized Chinese Xuan paper;
• Learn some Chinese brush techniques and discover how landscape painting differs in East Asia;
• Compose your own landscapes in either eastern or western style; try a mix-and-match approach;
• Listen to real birdsong  - and the occasional short poetry reading!
• Try your hand at writing a Japanese Haiku poem.

Genny will demonstrate all the techniques you need, and show plenty of examples to guide you on your way. You will have the opportunity to select, refine and compose your own landscapes. Your art might remain rooted in Dorset, or perhaps you’ll let your imagination fly further afield. Bookings are to be made directly with Genny at a cost of £65 per person by emailing [email protected].

It’s simply a matter of making marks on the paper – there’s no right or wrong – and they are YOUR landscapes. Give it a go!

About Arty Genny

Genny is a freelance art tutor with over a decade of experience. She believes everyone can be “arty”, given the right encouragement and support. Genny is proud to be Dorset-born but her background in foreign languages has taught her to appreciate far-flung places in addition to those closer to home. She has a special interest in Chinese brush painting and East Asian culture, which inspires her own art and her teaching. Her themes are nature-inspired and seasonal. She especially enjoys finding ways to fuse contrasting cultures in her workshops.

Genny is a certified Arts Therapy Practitioner whose teaching approach is imbued with an awareness of how art nurtures well-being. Her approach is mindful but she aims to provide opportunities to challenge and stretch creativity; there’s room for people to work at their own pace, because the focus is not necessarily on one end result – it’s the experimenting and “letting go” that’s important.

Genny believes that art is subjective and personal, and anyone participating in her workshops will be encouraged to find their own identity and not compare themselves to others. Her workshops promote kindness and belonging.

THE DETAILS

• The cost of this event is £65 (bookable with Genny directly);
• Book your place with the tutor by emailing [email protected]
• All art materials included;
• Free sketchbook to work in during the session, and to take home and continue experimenting;
• Refreshments will be available to buy from The Buzz Café, our coffee trailer run by CRT volunteers selling homemade cakes, tea, coffee and soft drinks;
• Wear comfortable clothing. You will be sketching outdoors for a small part of the session, so dress according to weather conditions on the day;
• Sturdy outdoor footwear required, but feel free to bring more comfortable shoes to wear when painting indoors;
• Public parking in a specially designated and clearly marked field only;
• Bring a packed lunch for afterwards