Painting Problems: A Closer Look

Using sketches, studies, digital media and photography as starting points, we will examine the world in close up to gain new, exciting subjects for painting.

We will look in detail at both the natural and man-made world using things like rock pools, hedgerows, household objects, architectural details, rubbish and scrap as subjects. Some images may be scaled up and textures and paint surfaces will be experimented with.

Many different approaches, including abstract interpretations, will be encouraged and various contemporary artists will be referred to including Michael Porter, Alan Caine, Erin Raedeker, Prunella Clough, Cornelia Parker and Kurt Jackson.

Projects will be set by the tutor and guidance given at every stage. There will be much use of mixed media methods and experimental approaches, with the emphasis being on building participants confidence and skills. Some abstract concepts will emerge together with representational images. Preparatory work will be done in A4 sketchbooks and participants should bring them along each week. From this work we will develop finished paintings. There will be optional further study set each week for those who wish to extend their practice at home.

Jenny exhibits regularly at the Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham and has fifty years’ experience of painting and teaching. She has work in private and public collections worldwide and a You Tube following of 17,000 subscribers. She has taught at the Attenborough Arts Centre since 1984 when it was known as The Studio and housed in a converted kitchen on the main University campus.

This course would suit artists of any ability or level of experience, who wish to take risks and experiment.

All materials will be provided.

This 8-week course will run on Wednesdays 10am – 1pm, starting on 11 October and ending on 29 November 2023.

Participants must be aged 18+.