Watercolour painting influenced by Turner
Paint with watercolour in the style of Turner at Petworth House. Learn how to capture the essence of light and atmosphere, tonal shape and composition. Learn how to explore the narrative, and how to draw the viewer in to engage their interest.
- Booking essential
During this course you will have the opportunity to visit Petworth House where you will be given a tour by the curator of the new Turner exhibition to spark your inspiration on the first full day of the course. You will have the opportunity to sketch in the grounds of Petworth House where Turner painted and have use of the studio there. You will also have the opportunity to return to West Dean for inspiration and use of the studio at West Dean.
During the course you will focus on the building blocks of watercolour painting, its flexibility and subtlety which can be achieved from simple elements of pigment, paper and water. Your tutor will help you with your development, guiding you with demonstrations and discussions both in the studio and outdoors.
You will produce collections of small quick studies through to larger comprehensive work. Working at your own pace on individual pieces using observation and studies from both Petworth House and West Dean. Weather permitting you will be working 'en plein air' in both locations in conjunction with studio time.
You will finish the course with a collection of between 8 and 15 exercises and paintings produce during the course. Your tutor will push the boundaries on what you can achieve, expand your understanding of perspective when using both linear and aerial observation. Your portfolio of work should be varied covering both landscape, structure (ie buildings and interiors) produced during the course.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| All | £542.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 01243 818300
- Suitability
Not suitable for children
- Meeting point
West Dean College
- What to bring and wear
Please see Course Materials section on the West Dean course information page.
- Other
This course runs over several days. Please see the Timetable section on the West Dean course information page for more information about the daily timings. The College will provide transport for the visit to Petworth House.
Upcoming events
Turner's Vision at Petworth
For the first time in 20 years, a specially curated selection of JMW Turner’s artistic studies of Petworth will be exhibited in the very place that inspired him. These rarely seen works give a fascinating insight into Turner’s methods.
Heritage Open Days
Visit for free for Heritage Open Weekend on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September.
Expressive fibres – fine art textile feltwork
For artists and makers with an interest in textiles, wishing to explore material behaviours and the wet felting technique. This course is based at West Dean College.
Watercolour painting for beginners – 'en plein air'
Petworth offers the unique opportunity to explore the wonders of watercolour in this iconic location. From blank paper to finished work, your tutor will help and encourage you to learn and gain confidence.