Experience the magic of Cornwall's artistic heritage and unlock your creative potential in a rich environment for creative exploration and artistic growth. Immerse yourself in a world of colour, form, and expression to gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.
Still life study enhances your skills in all painting genres. You may reap the rewards from this course in your painting practice for months and years afterwards.
Patio party
Crabapple jelly
One of many paintings made by Walter Langley of the linhay at Gwavas House
This course will explore the possibilities of painting a variety of objects both indoors and outdoors. The covered yard or ‘Linhay’ at Gwavas house offers a perfectly sheltered environment in which to set up painting subjects in natural light. We can walk down to the cove, finding inspiration in the boat builder’s yard or along the coast path collecting found objects, flora and fauna to bring back to the house to paint. If the weather is dry, we can paint outside in the courtyard, up in the garden or down on the cove, if it is not so warm, we may retreat to the shelter of the linhay and the warm net loft studio to set up our subjects under cover.
Perhaps you might like to re-create a scene from one of Walter Langley’s paintings of the linhay? We have a collection of historic props and antiques that can be used to re-create the images of the past for those who wish to walk in the footsteps of the great Newlyn painters!
Course fees
£375 per person
Fee includes 4 days of full tuition with examples, demonstrations and one-to-one guidance and feedback as you progress.
Location
Gwavas House, Newlyn TR18 5LD
Nestled on the edge of Mount’s Bay, Gwavas House is an old fisherman’s dwelling and workplace comprising 5 granite cottages and a net loft which surround a covered courtyard or ‘linhay’. Oozing with character in every corner, the history of the house is etched into the fabric of the building and its layout. From 1880 onwards it was used by artists of the Newlyn School for lodgings, the net loft was used as a temporary studio for painters when they first arrived in Newlyn. Thomas Cooper Gotch, Walter Langley and Stanhope Forbes all painted at Gwavas House before moving into their own studios elsewhere in the village.
Mark and Vicki are delighted to have become the owners and custodians of 3 of these cottages, which they are carefully preserving and restoring, along with the net loft and linhay.
The hillside garden above the house gives stunning views over the rooftop to St Michael’s Mount. Its idyllic setting offers an abundance of inspiration for both indoor and outdoor painting with views of Mount’s Bay from every window in the house.
WHat to expect
Expert Guidance: Vicki is a renowned, professionally qualified teacher with excellent communication skills and a compelling enthusiasm for her subject. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from her wealth of experience and expertise.
Skills and Techniques: You'll learn the art of creating stunning still life compositions using a variety of objects, textures, and lighting techniques. With full control over the subject, lighting and surroundings, the artist can focus specifically on individual skills in composition, design, drawing, colour and turning the form. These fundamental skills underpin the painting process for other subjects such as portraiture and landscape painting.
Individual Feedback: The class size is kept small to ensure that each participant receives personalized guidance and feedback tailored to their skill level and artistic goals.
Artistic Exploration: Explore various styles, colour palettes, and subjects to discover what resonates with you.
Interactive Discussions: Join thought-provoking discussions on art theory, composition, and finding inspiration.
Connect and Network: Interact with fellow artists, fostering a supportive and enriching artistic community.
Langley Corner
Who Should Attend?
This course is suitable for artists of all levels, from beginners looking to establish a strong foundation in still life painting, to more experienced artists seeking to refine their skills and expand their creative horizons. Vicki's teaching approach is tailored to meet individual needs and nurture creativity in everyone.
Materials:
A list of recommended materials will be provided after registration, ensuring that participants come prepared to make the most of their experience.
Accommodation options
We have 2 cottages with sea views and parking available at Gwavas House for guests to rent.
Glas has one double bedroom with ensuite shower room, a fully equipped kitchen/dining/living room and a patio with views across Mount’s Bay.
Melyn has one double bedroom and one twin bedroom with a shared shower room, it has a kitchen/dining/living room and patio with views across Mount’s Bay.
Newlyn offers a broad range of Air BnB cottages and apartments in the village. There are hotels within a mile of Gwavas House in Mousehole or Penzance. And a campsite in Paul or one at Longrock.
If you're travelling down to the South West to join us for this trip, there are plenty of nearby accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.
Newlyn offers a broad range of Air BnB cottages and apartments in the village. There are hotels within a mile of Gwavas House in Mousehole or Penzance. And a campsite in Paul or one at Longrock.
It is recommended that you book your accommodation to the west side of Marazion in order to avoid long travel times to painting locations on the west coast - all painting locations will be within a 30 minute drive from Newlyn.
Staying in or around Newlyn itself will make it easier to socialise and dine with the group during the evenings.
Food
There will be an option to join the group for one or two evening meals during the course at local pubs and restaurants. Tea and coffee will be available at Gwavas House whenever we are there. Participants should make their own arrangements for all other meals.
Limited to 6 AVailable Places!
Reserve Your Spot Now
Terms and conditions of booking are available here
Please book early to avoid disappointment!