Theme: Local Views
Landscape & Architecture — From Observation to Atmosphere
🗓 Course Dates: Fridays , 14th August – 25th September, 10-12.30
đź“Ť Hoby Village Hall, Hoby, Leics.
This 8‑week course explores local landscapes, village architecture, and atmospheric outdoor sketching, moving from quick en plein air studies to more developed studio paintings. You’ll learn how to capture place, structure, and mood — whether it’s the curve of a footpath, the rhythm of rooftops, or the shifting light over Charnwood.
🌿 Course Overview
Across eight weeks, you’ll build confidence in drawing and painting from life, developing a toolkit of approaches for both outdoor and indoor work. We’ll explore:
• On‑site sketching — how to simplify a scene, block shapes quickly, and respond to changing light
• Architectural drawing — capturing perspective, proportion, and the character of local buildings
• Landscape composition — choosing a viewpoint, balancing foreground/midground/background
• Colour & atmosphere — using acrylics and mixed media to express mood
• Studio development — turning outdoor sketches into confident, finished pieces
You’ll work from real locations, your own photographs, and on‑site sketches made during short outdoor sessions (weather permitting).
🎒 What to Bring
• A small sketchbook suitable for outdoor drawing
• Pencils, fineliners, or charcoal for quick studies
• A colour photograph of a local view you love (A4 if possible, with clear light/dark contrast)
• Acrylic paints (red, blue, yellow, white, black) and brushes
Oils are also an option
• Optional: portable stool, water pot with lid, and a lightweight board for outdoor work
🌤 A Note on En Plein Air Sessions
We’ll spend two sessions outdoors in Hoby or nearby spots. These will be gentle, accessible outings focused on capturing impressions rather than perfection quick marks, shifting shadows, and the feeling of being present in the landscape.
🌿 This is a nurturing space for all stages of creative journeying.Some come to refine, some to begin again. Gentle grounding practices may be woven in to support presence, connection, and a deeper appreciation of portraiture as both art and self‑reflection.
There will be a strong emphasis on developing your personal style, alongside opportunities for collaborative exploration. Together, we’ll grow, support, and create.i