COURSE/WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

In this one‑day workshop, you’ll be guided through a day of plein‑air drawing and painting in the beautiful grounds of Westbury Arts Centre. We’ll begin outdoors, making observational sketches and exploratory marks inspired by the wild shapes and organic patterns found in the surrounding landscape. With these first impressions in hand, you’ll then move into Westbury’s Legge Room, where you’ll be gently supported in tuning into your own creative instincts and developing your ideas further. Using a range of mixed media, you’ll build up layers, experiment with composition, and gradually shape these explorations into a more resolved piece during the afternoon. Spring often brings a sense of renewal, awakening, and quiet hope. This workshop is an invitation to slow down and tap into your personal creative intuition to experiment freely and follow where movement, colour, and form want to lead you. It’s a comfortable, supportive space to clear your head, use your hands, and create something playful. TUTOR INFORMATION: Olivia Mansfield is a tutor with over 10 years of experience running creative workshops alongside her own practice. Olivia has facilitated sessions in various disciplines; painting, ceramics, lino print, batik and wet felting. Olivia’s multidisciplinary practice is rooted in classical painting, iconography, historic culture, ritual and symbolism. Themes of myth, legend, folklore and symbolism intertwine in a playful balance of the abstract, botanical and figurative elements she encompasses in her work. MATERIALS PROVIDED FOR THE DURATION OF EACH SESSION: Easels and boards for the duration of the session. WHAT MATERIALS TO BRING WITH YOU: Sketch book/pad/or loose sheets of paper for drawing/painting on. Plus any materials you may have at home ie, watercolour paints/palette, inks, pastels, etc. (no oil paints please). A canvas or board/s to make a final piece on if you wish. Canvases will also be available to buy from the artist on the day and there will be a (limited) supply of extras provided by the artist. But a sketch book/and or sheets of painting paper is essential for the class. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Enjoy complimentary teas and coffees on site. Please bring your lunch and snacks with you. This workshop is scheduled to take place from 10am to 3pm, which includes approximately 30 minutes break for lunch. LOCATION: This workshop will take place in the Legge Room situated on the ground floor with accessible access.