Course details
Whether you are a beginner or have a creative practice, this course liberates you from expectations. Explore the techniques of parsemage and automatic drawing to create exquisite paintings in a free and unself-conscious way.

Join artist Kate Southworth for this three-day course exploring the symbolic connections between Alchemy and Calendrical Art. Loosen your approach, embrace chance and happy accidents, and tap into a more unconscious and intuitive way of working. See how various artists including Ithell Colquhoun, Leona Carrington and Hilma af Klint, used alchemy in their life and paintings, and learn various techniques and processes to free-up your practice.
Kate will guide you though practical exercises and group discussions using the stages of alchemy and the transition points of the calendar year. Relating these to your own creative process, you will work with automatic and mindful techniques of image making to encourage your unconscious and conscious creativity to flow and emerge unhinderred.
Learn how to use Parsemage, or powdering, developed by artist Ithell Colquhoun – a process of scattering powdered charcoal and chalk onto the surface of water and scooping paper either underneath the waterline or laying it onto the surface of the water. The traces of charcoal or chalk can then be developed further through drawing and painting. Producing a series of images using this technique, you will then have a chance to work through the results with various methods and mediums to create a unique body of works.
This course is ideal for both beginners and more experienced painters. Great if you are looking for a new direction, or even if you’d like to start painting and are not sure where to start. Kate is a wonderfully calm and attentive teacher who will help you on your painting journey, from wherever you’re starting!




Day to day plan
This is a rough indication of what to expect over the course. However sometimes the structure of the days may alter depending on the nature of the group.
Day 1
On day one we will set the context by exploring creative practice as a transformative process in relation to Alchemy. We will explore some of the symbols, images, ideas, processes and operations found in Alchemy, and look at artists who reference alchemy in their work. In the afternoon we will work with automatic techniques (charcoal and collage) of image making to allow your unconscious creativity to emerge unhindered.
Day 2
We will work with Parsemage or powdering, which was developed by artist Ithell Colquhoun. This involves scattering powdered charcoal and chalk onto the surface of water and scooping paper either underneath the waterline or laying it onto the surface of the water. You will then develop this technique further using drawing and painting in watercolour and acrylic. We will produce a series of images using this technique.
Day 3
Referring to one of the works made over the last two days you will re-interpret it three times using a different medium each time (e.g. collage, painting, drawing). Then setting out your three interpretations you will make notes of the similarities and differences between them. We will end with a group tutorial and discussion.
What will I learn?
- Learn practical tips on navigating the creative process.
- Increased confidence in a range of approaches to making.
- Learn about alchemy and its connection to making art
- Learn to recognise that there’s no such thing as bad work and to feel confident about making.
Who would this course suit?
This course would suit artists at any stage in their creative journey; whether you have an established practice or are just starting out. Ideal if you are looking for ways to increase skills, experience and attitude as well as interests and mobility.
Taught by
What to Bring
Our studios are fully equipped and we provide you with all the materials you need for your course. However, if you have a favourite set of brushes or any specialist materials that you would prefer to use, please bring them with you.
Timings and Breaks
The first day starts at 10am and finishes at 4.30pm, please aim to arrive ten to fifteen minutes before the start time.
All course days after that start at 9.30am and finish at 4pm and there will be an hour for lunch. There are plenty of nearby places to eat and we will serve tea and coffee at break times during the day.
What our students say
I didn’t really know what to expect as I am new to painting, but it was such brilliant experience, I really learnt a lot.
Kate facilitated and respected the varied needs & ways of working of each individual, regardless of previous experience. Kate was a very gentle and open tutor giving just the right amount of structure and guidance, whilst never imposing herself but always available. Thank you very much for a relaxing and reviving course.
It was well paced with rich content, with a focus on discovering and developing our individual style. The tutor’s gentle and affirming approach was both helpful and encouraging.
A beautiful course on all levels, deep and lovely productive time spent on understanding the process – Kate really is a great tutor.
Look at painting in a completely different way to other courses.
FAQs
Art Courses
Do I need any previous art experience?
Not always. We offer courses for all levels, including complete beginners, intermediate students and more experienced artists. You can look for the experience level listed on the individual course page to find the most suitable option for you. If you need any guidance on what course might suit you best, contact on our friendly team on 01736 797180 and they will be able to help.
Art Courses in St Ives
How do I log in to my online account?
To log in to your account, please follow these steps:
- Go to our website: www.schoolofpainting.co.uk
- Click on the ‘Log in’ button (usually found near the top right of the page)
- Enter the email address and you used when booking
- Click “Log in” to access your account
Once logged in, you’ll be able to view your bookings, outstanding payments, online courses and any relevant account information.
If you’ve forgotten your password, simply click ‘Forgot password?’ on the login page and follow the instructions to reset it.
If you have any trouble accessing your account, please email us and we’ll be happy to help.
Do you offer art classes for children and teenagers?
Yes. Our Young Artists Programme includes art workshops for children and teenagers, with sessions designed for different age groups. During the summer, we also run creative workshops for children aged 7-13.
How large are your art classes?
Our studio courses are taught in small groups of around 10 to 12 people, allowing tutors to provide individual guidance alongside group demonstrations and discussions.
What is included in an art course?
Course fees include professional tuition from a practising artist and use of the School’s studio facilities. Materials and equipment are all included in our in person courses, workshops and life drawing sessions – so you can just turn up and get started. Teas and coffees are also provided throughout the day.
Can I attend an art course on my own?
Absolutely. Many students come to St Ives School of Painting independently. Courses offer a welcoming and sociable environment, with plenty of opportunities to meet other people who share an interest in making and learning.
Do you offer beginner painting courses?
Yes. Our programme includes beginner-friendly painting courses covering materials such as oils, acrylics and watercolours. These courses introduce you to essential tools and techniques while giving you plenty of time to practise and explore your own ideas.
How do I choose the right art course?
Start by considering how you would like to work. You may want to learn a particular medium, improve a skill such as drawing or colour mixing, explore a subject such as landscape or still life, or develop a more personal approach. Each course page explains the content, materials, level and teaching approach to help you decide. Our friendly, helpful team are always available to help further.
Please call us on 01736 797180 to discuss your options or email [email protected].
Who teaches your art courses?
Our courses are led by practising artists – including Jill Eisele, Alice Mumford, Iona Sanders and Neil Canning – all with extensive knowledge of their chosen subjects and materials. Each tutor brings their own artistic experience, working methods and approach to teaching, giving students the opportunity to experience a wide range of ideas and techniques.
How do I get my work home?
Tutors have special techniques for transporting oil paintings and for our 3 day courses we will give you a plastic folder with a handle. These are also available to purchase for £3.50 or do bring a portfolio.
Please note: For the course Bigger, Bolder, Braver with Boo Mallinson, we will provide a large A1 size plastic folder for your work but please consider how you will be able to transport the larger canvases home safely before signing up for the course as we will not be able to store large paintings in the studio. On this course you will be painting on a 50cms x 50cms and a 1m x 1m canvas alongside smaller pieces.
For international students we are happy to arrange transportation of your work back home, postal costs will be borne by you.
What times do courses run?
Most of our courses start at 10am and end at 4.30pm on the first day. Subsequent days we start at 9.30am ending at 4pm.
Short workshops start at 10am in the Summer and 9.30am/ 1.30pm during September festival
In Person Courses
What art courses do you offer in St Ives?
We offer a varied programme of art courses in St Ives, including painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media and life drawing. You can choose from one-day workshops, short summer sessions and more immersive three- and four-day studio courses. We also offer longer development courses for those looking to take their practice to the next level.
What do I need to bring?
You don’t need to bring anything with you unless we specify beforehand. All materials, aprons and tools are provided, however some people do like to bring along their favourite set of brushes or sketchbooks.
What do I do for lunch?
Courses allow an hour’s break for lunch and there are numerous places nearby or you are welcome to bring a packed lunch into the studio.
Can I bring my dog?
The studios are busy places with lots of equipment and not suitable for bringing a pet dog. We can accommodate assistance dogs with prior notice so we can make suitable adjustments. If you wish to bring an assistance dog please call 01736 797180 or email [email protected]
Choosing an Art Course
Do you run life drawing classes in St Ives?
Yes. We hold regular life drawing sessions in St Ives, including Thursday evening and Saturday morning classes. These welcoming, tutored sessions are open to a range of experience levels and provide an opportunity to practise drawing from a life model. Our life drawing sessions are held just a 5 minute walk from our studios at The Island Centre.
Do you offer art courses for adults?
Yes. We run art classes and courses for adults throughout the year, from accessible introductory workshops to more intensive courses for people looking to deepen their creative practice.
What types of painting can I learn?
Our courses cover a wide range of approaches, including oil painting, acrylic painting, watercolour, gouache, landscape painting, still life, portraiture and abstraction. We also offer courses exploring colour, composition, mark-making and creative confidence.