Sketching and Watercolours – an Introduction (Stage 1)

• Experienced guidance from a practising artist specialising in sketching and watercolour
• Learning to truly ‘see’ and respond to the world around you
• Development of skills in pencil, pen, charcoal and watercolour
• Expressive line work and confident mark-making
• Exploration of tone, contrast, texture, colour and form
• Capturing movement and understanding basic perspective
• Approaches to landscape, botanical studies, objects and the human figure
• Inspiration drawn from both contemporary and traditional artists

• Week 1: Introduction to materials, basic sketching techniques – still life
• Week 2: Introduction to charcoal and chalk – still life
• Week 3: Using ink techniques – natural forms
• Week 4: Ink, charcoal and chalk – moving figure
• Week 5: Colour theory and mixing in watercolour
• Week 6: Further drawing techniques using ink and wash – buildings
• Week 7: Introduction to landscapes in watercolour
• Week 8: Further exploration of landscapes in watercolour
• Week 9: Animal study in mixed media
• Week 10: Self-initiated project

At the end of the course you'll:

• Approach observational drawing with increased confidence and technical understanding
• Demonstrate greater control in a range of media including pencil, pen, charcoal and watercolour
• Apply fundamental watercolour techniques within your sketchbook practice
• Use your sketchbook effectively as a visual journal and research tool
• Experiment with new ideas and discover fresh approaches to creating
• Develop a body of sketchbook work that includes both experimental studies and more resolved pieces
• Engage in supportive group discussion and share work constructively with peers
• Experience drawing as a mindful and restorative creative practice

You'll also be eligible to request an AUB Academy Certificate of Attendance if you achieve 100% attendance.

Will I be assessed?

No, there's no formal assessment. You’ll group share your work at the end of each session with the intention to support, inspire and encourage each other’s learning. 

As the course progresses your tutor will measure your overall performance and offer essential guidance and feedback, so you know how you're getting on.

Age

Suitable for adults aged 18+.

Level

Beginners or anyone with some experience who want to refresh or develop their skills further.

Experience or qualifications required

None – this is an introductory course. We have no formal academic entry requirements for our short courses.

If you'd like to discuss if this course is suitable for you, get in touch with us: academy@aub.ac.uk or 01202 363222.

£375

Any additional costs

You may need to purchase additional materials for this course.

Additional materials and resources will be provided by AUB and is included in your course fee.

• Good-quality hardback A4 sketchbook (Pink Pig, Seawhites, Daler Rowney, Winsor & Newton or similar; 160 gsm or heavier recommended)
• Pencils: 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B
• Charcoal and white chalk or paste
• Set of black fine line drawing pens (waterproof ink)
• Putty eraser, plastic eraser and pencil sharpener
• Watercolour paints (you may wish to wait until after the first lesson before purchasing)
• Assorted watercolour brushes (optional to purchase after first session)
• Roll of inexpensive lining paper or A3 sugar paper
• Bottle of black fountain pen ink and barbecue skewers/cocktail sticks
• White tissue paper