In this sketchbook practice session we'll explore creating our own tools from found and recycled materials, then use them to explore mark making.
This practice is invaluable if you're keen to explore some new ways of making marks and be open to new discoveries along the way. Or if you like to play with materials just for their own sake!
A sketchbook practice can be extremely valuable to any form of art making.
Why?
Working in a sketchbook can get rid any attachment to outcome, which can be immensely liberating.
Because we are not making a “work of art” we can be more experimental, more playful …and even more accepting of the messy pages that can happen when we're being more free.
We'll start by using different natural and recoiled materials to create drawing implements - including making cola pens with different nibs from flattened tin cans.
We'll also explore other materials which lend themselves less to being attached to a stick, but which can also make interesting marks through stamping and printing too, like pebbles or fir cones.
Then we'll explore the different marks we can make with all these tools, take them for a walk across the pages of our sketchbooks and be open to happy surprises!
For those who want more structure, we'll use simple images as a way to explore the tools.
No previous art making or sketch-booking experience is needed - maybe just a dose of curiosity.
The course is designed to give you an idea for a sketchbook practice which could easily be done in the home with some simple materials.
For practicing artists, exploring new mark making tools can help you to find ways to step into new territory.
Follow up suggestions of prompts you can do on your own will be provided.
**IMAGES come from a tools I've made plus some images from Shelley Rhodes book 'Sketchbook Explorations' to give you ideas of the sort of tools we can make.
When?
It runs from 10 - 1pm on Saturday 02/08/25
How much?
*£37.50 per person. including a sketchbook and materials.
But please feel free to bring anything you think might be an interesting tool to play with, whether attached to a stick or not!
The max group size is 10 so you'll have lots of chance to get help and ask questions in a relaxed informal setting.
Refreshments are included.
Where?
Clevedon Craft Centre
Moor Lane
Clevedon
North Somerset
BS21 6TD
The room is upstairs in an old listed building.
Please wear old clothes that you don't mind getting paint on, or bring an apron.
Parking is free on site.
Comments from recent course participants (from the online version of this course) :
‘Thank you, Julia, and thanks especially for sharing your process. I love the idea of using a specific type of ‘mark’ as a launch point throughout an entire sketchbook, and I’m looking forward to playing with the various techniques you shared again and again. Very useful and inspiring session!' Kerry
'Julia, I enjoyed your lesson! Your tips were beneficial and will help me loosen up within a structure. Thank you for sharing your ideas about how to make a composition look like it flows (not separate elements).' Sarah
'Thank you. I'm going to have another play this afternoon. It's very inspiring and just what I need to propel me into my creativity again,' Catherine.
'I haven't done much in sketchbooks, but I do like your idea of exploring a single shape to the fullest. This is worth working in a sketchbook to me!' Karen
Terms: I reserve the right to cancel the course before the event if there aren't enough people signed up. Full refund or place on alternative course offered in the event of my cancellation.
If you need to cancel, I will aim to offer you a place on another suitable course if sufficient notice is given. Refunds are not given.
Contact me with any questions or if you have any problems with booking.