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Course intent

This course introduces you to a range of techniques in both watercolour and oil painting, using sketchbooks, photographs, found images, and direct observation. Working on similar subjects in both mediums, you will compare and contrast their qualities to better understand their unique characteristics and creative possibilities. This course supports personal growth through practical sessions, tutor-led demonstrations, group discussions, and one-to-one feedback. You will be encouraged to explore, experiment, and refine your own artistic voice while working with a variety of materials and methods.

What will I learn?

You will learn:

• Material Knowledge: Use painting materials with increasing confidence. Explore the properties and handling of watercolour and oil side by side.
• Design Techniques: Develop your understanding of tone, colour, composition, and texture. Learn how to make informed design decisions based on your chosen medium.
• Production Process: Practice a variety of watercolour techniques including washes, layering, and colour mixing. Compare how oil and watercolour approaches differ across the same subject matter. Learn oil painting techniques such as glazing, impasto, and scumbling.
• Craftsmanship: Refine your technical skills through a combination of practice and guided instruction. Develop your individual style and expressive approach in both mediums.
• Studio Practice: Understand the importance of a safe working environment and H&S requirements.

  Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

  Stage 1 – This stage is for learners who are new to their chosen subject area. With the focus on introducing individuals to basic materials, tools, and techniques, and to inspire confidence in creative expression.

  What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

  You need to bring:

• Low odour brush cleaner (Sansodar)
• Oil medium (linseed oil or liquin)
• Watercolour brushes
• A palette
• A pad of watercolour paper (Cold pressed/NOT surface) weight 300gsm

If you do not have the above materials, please bring:

• A pad of A3 cartridge paper
• Soft grade of pencils (2B to 6B)
• Soft rubber or charcoal
• Pencil or pen
• Note pad or sketchbook

Materials will be discussed at the first session with advice on what to bring for the course. If you have any queries, please email the tutor at adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to enrol onto a Stage 3 course or other Arts & Crafts courses at SAL.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

We value and support equality, diversity and inclusion by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

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