The Norfolk Painting School
Oil Painting Courses. Gallery. Specialist Materials
courses first, if I've been painting for years!
Quite simply the majority of modern painters use techniques
and approaches developed after 1857 by the Impressionists
and their heirs. Traditional, indirect painters (Rembrandt,
'modern') techniques as a small part of their process. My core
'traditional' Indirect technique is the basis of all my more
specialised courses. You'll learn everything you need to
develop your work on a core technique course (Traditional
oils etc), the specialised courses are only there to refine
existing skills, not introduce you to them.
Why can't you teach me the basics on every course?
Our two day courses are packed full of information, there
simply isn't time to add core skills training on to specialised
courses; however our five day course is long enough to cover
both core skills and some elements from specialist courses.
Am I good enough to take part?
There is nothing inherently difficult about painting,in fact my
youngest student was just 12, and I have yet to have a failure.
Because I only teach small groups you'll get plenty of hands
on help. Our small working groups quickly gel, and you'll find
yourself amongst friends before the first morning is over.
My step by step tuition is designed to teach you principles that
can be used at home, such has how to mix colour, how to
'build' a painting or how to use a glaze.
But I can't draw, is it worth trying to paint?
Don't worry about this at all, Landscape and sea painting
require very little skill in drawing, as you will be encouraged to
think in volumes rather than linear forms. However if you wish
to develop a career in painting and learn portraiture, still life or
figure work you will need to draw well.
Which course is best for me?
All of our courses run with small groups, so there is always the
opportunity for plenty of time with me at your easel; however
by coming on a course that suits your current standard of
painting, you'll take in more, and have more fun.
Simply Oils is a foundation course in my painting technique,
making it ideal for beginners. Traditional Oils is best for
experienced painters who want to try my methods.
'Constable..' and 'sky painting' are intermediate courses; we
assume that you understand how to work alla prima, staged
(or wet on dry) and the basic use of glazing, scumbling, and
so forth. We would not cover basics such as the use of oil
mediums or colour mixing at this level and beyond for
example, as we need the time to concentrate on more complex
aspects of picture planning.
'Turner...' is my masterclass, and is really for painters who are
very familiar with mediums and glazes, and want to learn
special effects such as creating transparent light and glowing
clouds.
The Holiday course, is a fairly relaxed walk through my entire
painting processes, from plein air, through learning from
sources, to picture planning and studio painting. Elements of
art history and the use of special mediums are included at the
appropriate level.
Bespoke courses for groups can be tailored to meet any
requirements you like - from absolute basics to complete
masterclass; just call me to discuss your requirements.
Whatever course you choose you will benefit from our small
group tuition; for example our largest class, a group of eight is
taught by myself and a second professional artist, making it a
1:4 tutor to student ratio.
Do you really provide all materials?
Yes, everything you need for the course is included for the
learn. Nothing is worse than being on a course and finding
that you don't have the right colours or brushes to succeed. All
you need to bring is an open mind and enthusiasm.
Will I get to take my work home?
Absolutely, you'll leave with at least one piece on canvas to
show your family and art club friends, plus any sketches or
preparatory work you've done. If you can't take the work home
we can arrange a courier for you at a reasonable cost..
What facilities are on site?
The school has ample off road parking, plus students have a
lecture/dining room and an indoor public gallery area to
relax/take tea in. In the studio itself you have a professional
easel and workstation of your own. The studio is centrally
heated, has both natural and artificial (daylight bulb) lighting,
and a small washroom/WC.
The studio is suitable for wheelchairs, A WC accessible to
wheelchairs is available at the school. Because I had a stroke
and was confined to a wheelchair, we are extremely cognisant
of the needs of disabled guests.
What meals/refreshments are provided?
All students have free access to good coffee, plus tea, and
biscuits. Homecooked meals are provided on lunch inclusive
courses and typically include a hot main, plus desert. Past
menus have included Poached Salmon, Beef Lasagna,
Barbecue Chicken, Cassoulet Anglais, ; Blackberry crumble,
Norfolk Cheeseboard, and so forth. Lunch is an integral part
of the course; time to reflect, relax and chat.
Why should I pay up front?
We ask for courses to be paid for up-front because we only
have limited places, and are over subscribed. If you cannot
attend your course for a unforseen reason we will do our best
to find a suitable alternative (see our terms and conditions for
full details).
Can you arrange accommodation?
We have two self catering cottages available in Syderstone,
about 3 miles from the School, all with lounge areas, great
showers and facilties for light cooking (microwave,
kettle,toaster induction hob). To find out more about our
accommodation contact look here.
We can also arrange B&;B within the locality or send you a list
of nearby hotels. Accommodation in and around the village is
about £50 per night.
What if I have special dietary requirements?
No problem, just tell Jane at the time of booking and she'll
ensure you are served a suitable meal.
What if I can't drive, can I still come?
Don't worry, many of our students can't drive either through
choice or infirmity. We can always arrange our trusted private
taxi transport to and from Fakenham or King's Lynn, both of
which are easily accessible by public transport, please contact
Jane for a quote. We can also arrange lifts to the school from
local accommodation, either with us or a fellow student.
Several past students have flown into Norwich Airport and
been picked up by our friendly local driver.