Creative Sessions at SSW Gallery

An opportunity to try a new skill, develop a talent or learn new ways of working at the beautiful Symondsbury Estate, near Bridport, Dorset. 

Sou'-Sou'-West Gallery offers a range of art and craftmaking opportunities led by experienced professionals who will encourage you to be creative with a chance to explore various artistic techniques using different materials.

Introduction to Oil Painting

Always wanted to try using oils? Phil Clayton will introduce you to the time old tradition of using oil paint; how and why it is so different to using acrylics.

Observational Drawing with a Difference

Do you find yourself saying 'I don't draw.' Yet it is a fundamental foundation block in working towards about what is involved in becoming an artist. Phil Clayton has been teaching students of all ages for many years to become confident in using drawing techniques as the groundwork to all forms of fine and applied arts.

Drawing from Life

Figure Drawing traditionally has been revered as an excellent learning practice, translating a three dimensional figure onto paper. A variety of poses of differing lengths will be set during the day. Drop in for a morning, afternoon or evening session or stay the whole day! Led by the very experienced life drawing tutor Carolyn King.

Ceramics

Inspired by the Great Pottery Throwdown? Then why not have a go yourself, hand-making a dish, vase, plaque or small animals. Half day sessions include the cost of bisque and glaze firing in a kiln. Alison Shelton Brown has had her hands in clay for over fifty years and will be your guide to the joys (and pitfalls) of ceramics.

Eco-printing on Silk

At Symondsbury the gardeners work tirelessly to create stunning planting arrangements around the Estate. The display of tulips in Spring is a joy to behold. Foraging the local hedgerows around the village for plants to dye silk naturally, Alison Shelton Brown will show you can eco-print a scarf unique to you and that moment in time using found leaves and a few veg. 

Phytograms

Ever wondered what to do with that bouquet of flowers after it has begun to go over? Before you throw them onto the compost, why not make a phytogram within them? Using a home-made, eco-friendly developer and vintage photographic paper, you will learn how to make a permanent, unique image using the petals, leaves and stems of virtually any plant. Led by Robin Shelton.

For more information call Phil Clayton: 07809 831760 or drop into the gallery at Symondsbury.