Ocean Light + Water

Waterbased / Landscape - Materials included

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Course details

Taking rich inspiration from the ocean, learn to capture reflections of light and shadow on wet sand and glistening silver light on the surface of water, using watercolour and inks.

watercolour painting by Hilary Jean Gibson for landscape art course

The ocean is the rich source of inspiration for this two day course. Learn to capture reflections of light and shadow on wet sand and glistening silver light on the surface of water, using watercolour and inks. Give yourself the time and space to reflect on the ocean and its many moods and meanings, giving you tools and confidence to explore this captivating subject.

Observe and paint the ocean and the effects of light on water. You will learn how to paint patterns and reflections of light and shadow on wet sand and glistening silver light on the surface of water. Experimentation will encourage you to be bold with water-based medium on a large scale whilst also exploring resists and other expressive, atmospheric techniques.

Painting both in the studio with its stunning views of the ocean and en plein air, our locations will include St. Ives Harbour, the tiny cove of Porthgwidden with views to Godrevy Lighthouse and the infinite waters and vast skies of Porthmeor Beach. The sketchbook you develop will be an invaluable reference back in the studio and a permanent visual record. Then using a limited palette create harmonious paintings of subtlety and drama. We will look at the composition and techniques of a diversity of artists inspired by and connected to the sea, such as John Singer Sargeant, J.M.W. Turner, Kurt Jackson, John Constable, Winifred Nicholson and Paul Nash.

The course will range in focus from macro to micro, engaging with the vastness of the ocean as well as studying the miniature worlds of rock pools. Give yourself the time and space to reflect on the ocean and its many moods and meanings and build your tools and confidence to explore this captivating subject.

This course is ideal if you have attended Hilary’s Basic Watercolour course or have an understanding of this beautiful but challenging medium. Although materials are provided if you have your own cherished watercolour brushes and paints do bring them.


Taught by

In 1995 I became a tutor at the St Ives School of Painting. Offering inspiration through my passion for drawing, water-based media and art history, I strive to liberate a creative vision by teaching skills and techniques through direct observation and en plein air.

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 10 am and finishes at 4.30 pm. Please arrive ten minutes before the start time and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before we start.
All course days after that start at 9.30 am and finish at 4 pm and there will be an hour for lunch. Occasionally these times may be changed if required by the tutor. There are plenty of nearby places to eat or you are welcome to bring a packed lunch into the studio.

FAQs

Studio Courses

How can I get help in choosing a course?

Our friendly expert staff are always happy to discuss your needs and our courses in more detail to help you with your decision. Please call us on 01736 797180

How do I get my work home?

Tutors have special techniques for transporting oil paintings and the school has plastic folders available in our shop for £3.50 or do bring a portfolio.

For international students we are happy to arrange transportation of your work back home.

What do I need to bring?

Absolutely nothing! All materials and aprons are provided although some people do like to bring their own set of brushes.

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.

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.

Weekend Courses run 10am – 4pm on the first day but the final day starts at 9.30 and ends at 3.30 with a short lunch break to enable people to get home that evening.


Do you have to be experienced to come to the School?

The School is a very friendly and welcoming place for all ages and experience. Our drop-in life classes and August half-day workshops are ideal for those wanting to have a go for the first time. Most of our longer courses are also fine for novices.

If any of the courses do need a bit of experience we flag this up in the brochure and on the website.

Booking a Course

Can I pay by cheque?

Please get in touch by phone and we can hold your place for a few days whilst you post your cheque (made payable to: St Ives School of Painting) to us at St Ives School of Painting, Porthmeor Studios. St Ives TR26 1NG

How can I reserve a place?

We will hold a provisional reservation for 24 hours if you give us a call whilst you find accommodation. Otherwise please book online or by telephone 01736 797180.

You can reserve a place with a £100 deposit; balance is due 12 weeks before course start date.

About St Ives

Where do I park?

The nearest long stay public car parks are the Island and Barnoon both 5 minute walk away. In the peak summer months it may be easier to park at the big top car park by the leisure centre and walk down into town. If you don’t fancy the walk up the hill at the end of the day there is a shuttle bus which runs from outside the cinema.

How do I get there?

Public Transport: If you are coming from further afield the main train line runs into St Erth which is a 15 min taxi ride away or you can take the St Ives Bay Line which runs approx. every 30 minutes. The School is a 10 minute walk from St Ives station.

Driving: M5 will take you to Exeter where we recommend that you take the A30 across Bodmin Moor and into Cornwall. After passing Hayle, leave the A30 at St Erth roundabout for St Ives. Turn right at the second roundabout. This road will take you through Lelant and Carbis Bay into St Ives.

Where can I stay?

St Ives has a huge selection of hotels, guest houses and self catering accommodation to choose from. Please browse the art holidays St Ives section on our website and give us a call if you would like any help.

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