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Watercolour painting influenced by Turner at Petworth House

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 obtain entry to the permanent collection of Turner paintings. You will have the opportunity to sketch in the grounds 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. The West Dean minibus will transport you to Petworth House and return you back to West Dean.

You will focus on 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 location in conjunction with studio time.

You will finish the course with a collection of between 8 and 15 exercises and paintings produces 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

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
Adult £635.00

The basics

Booking number

Call 01243 818300

Meeting point

West Dean College

Suitability for children

Not suitable for children

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

Expressions in Blue: Monumental Porcelain by Felicity Aylieff 

Towering sculptures by renowned ceramicist Felicity Aylieff are being exhibited at Petworth House and Park. The exhibition takes place across the whole property including installations throughout the house, and in the grounds.

Event summary

on
14 Jul to 27 Sep 2026
at 10:30 to 16:30+ 75 other dates or times

Summer Family Trail: Adventures in Blue 

Step into a world of colour, creativity, and imagination on this fun family trail.

Event summary

on
18 Jul to 6 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00+ 50 other dates or times

Fun Art Fridays 

Drop-in for some fun and creative activities inspired by the 'Expressions in Blue' exhibition.

Event summary

on
24 Jul to 28 Aug 2026
at 11:00 to 15:30+ 5 other dates or times

Nocturnal Wildlife and Perseids Meteor Shower Guided Walk 

Bring along your torch and blanket and visit the Deer Park at night discovering some of the nocturnal wildlife and try out a bit of star gazing.

Event summary

on
12 Aug to 13 Aug 2026
at 20:00 to 22:00+ 1 other date or time