Festive painting on wood£90
10:00-16:00 Tutor: Andy Lean Refreshments included 'The tutor and staff were very welcoming and put you at ease as upon arrival making for a relaxing and stress-free day. There was plenty of knowledge, laughter and, help if needed. I left with my finished piece feeling very accomplished as I had never painted with acrylics before so, thankyou, I thoroughly recommend'
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This course:
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ABOUT THE workshop
Andy Lean returns by popular demand following the success of his Nature Painting on Wood Workshop this spring. Join us for this fun and friendly festive-themed day of painting! Participants will explore woodland wildlife through acrylic painting techniques using different sizes of recycled wood panels as a 'canvas'. The course blends art instruction with natural inspiration – perfect for nature lovers, art enthusiasts and anyone seeking a relaxing, creative escape before the busy festive season. Gain inspiration from our hedgerows and forest species in wintertime when the woodlands feel especially magical in the run-up to Yuletide.
In the morning your tutor, Andy Lean, will guide you on a short walk of our woodlands (weather permitting) to observe the quiet beauty of nature in its winter coat. Next, back in the classroom with a hot drink and a biscuit nearby, Andy will cover the following:
You will then compose your chosen woodland subject (i.e. fox, owl, dormouse, badger or hedgerow details like brambles, berries, fungi) on cartridge paper – perfect for creating a cosy winter woodland scene. Your tutor will give one-to-one guidance on layout, focal points and storytelling before the sketches are transferred to the recycled wood panels.
After lunch, as you begin painting your woodland piece on wood you will learn:
In the morning your tutor, Andy Lean, will guide you on a short walk of our woodlands (weather permitting) to observe the quiet beauty of nature in its winter coat. Next, back in the classroom with a hot drink and a biscuit nearby, Andy will cover the following:
- Introduction to painting on wood (types of wood, prepping surfaces, sealing, etc)
- Colour mixing demo with a woodland palette on cartridge paper to explore tones and depth (mossy greens, rich browns, soft neutrals, with hints of frosty winter light)
- Techniques & Textures: your tutor will demonstrate brush techniques and how to paint natural textures (fur, feathers, bark) tailored to images students bring on the day. Participants will then practise techniques of dry-brushing, layering and fine detail on paper.
You will then compose your chosen woodland subject (i.e. fox, owl, dormouse, badger or hedgerow details like brambles, berries, fungi) on cartridge paper – perfect for creating a cosy winter woodland scene. Your tutor will give one-to-one guidance on layout, focal points and storytelling before the sketches are transferred to the recycled wood panels.
After lunch, as you begin painting your woodland piece on wood you will learn:
- Step-by-step painting time with guidance from Andy
- Tips on layering and achieving depth
- Optional embellishments: adding metallics/gold/copper highlights, painted borders
- Finishing Touches: final detailing and touch-ups and how to seal and finish your painting at home
- Adding D-rings to hang on the wall at home
- If there is time, a smaller piece can be painted on a wood 'cookie' using materials from the Centre's woods which will look splendid on the tree or to gift to friends or family
THE COURSE WILL GIVE YOU
- Basic acrylic painting techniques suitable for wood surfaces
- An understanding of composition, colour mixing and layering for naturalistic effects
- Your own piece of artwork to take home
- A handout summarising the techniques you have learnt
THIS COURSE IS SUITABLE FOR
All adults who would like to explore tips and techniques to use acrylics on wood. Whether you are a complete beginner or more practised, this engaging workshop will build your confidence and show you how to produce your very own nature-inspired piece of art - you do not need to be an artist to enjoy this course!
This workshop will be held mostly indoors with a walk included (weather permitting), if you have mobility concerns, please contact the courses team [email protected].
This workshop will be held mostly indoors with a walk included (weather permitting), if you have mobility concerns, please contact the courses team [email protected].
WHAT TO BRING/WEAR
- Stout shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for outside walk
- A photo of animal/bird/plant you would like to paint - optional
- Notepad and pen - students are encouraged to take notes of each stage
- Phone to take photos
- Apron or clothing you don’t mind getting paint on
- A packed lunch or buy from our Beech Café
ABOUT THE TUTOR
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Andy Lean is an experienced artist and art educator with over 23 years of teaching in secondary schools. In addition to classroom teaching, he has also led adult education art classes at Haywards Heath College, where he enjoyed helping learners of all levels develop their artistic confidence and creativity. He holds a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from Chichester University (2002) and completed his PGCE at Brighton University, training as an art specialist. In recent years, Andy has exhibited widely, including multiple groups shows at the Contemporary Oxmarket Gallery and a solo exhibition at Chichester Artisan Gallery (2024–present). Andy is passionate about helping people of all ages and abilities explore their creativity.
Facebook: andyandrachael Instagram: @andyandrachaelnatureart |
Check Out Accommodation
You can get 10% discount when you stay with us during your course in our campsite or eco lodge. Please call us on 01730 823166 to make your accommodation booking. Our reception is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm.
