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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261107T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261108T153000
DTSTAMP:20261016T115900Z
CREATED:20251030T153310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261016T115900Z
UID:11513-1794047400-1794151800@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Developing Abstract Techniques Course
DESCRIPTION:Developing Abstract Techniques Course – Event Details\nOverview:\nOn the developing abstract techniques course\, you will develop your ability to successfully explore a variety of artistic mediums and create exciting abstract artworks. So\, you may want to attend this course if you need inspiration or a creative reboot. \nExample of the course programme:\n\nFirstly\, you will be guided in an experimental approach to the use of media. You will learn how to use humble art materials such as wax crayons\, oil pastels\, collage and watercolour in expressive and inventive ways.\nAfterwards\, you will be given source materials to inspire you\, such as animal skin imagery\, or collected natural objects. From which\, you will learn how to develop free-flowing expressive imagery to kickstart your artistic flair.\nLastly\, you will develop your ability to make intuitive art that is in touch with your inner artist. There will be no rights or wrongs on this course\, instead\, the development of a sense of adventure and creative growth.\n\n \nExperience level:\nThis art course is suitable for beginners to improvers as there will be guided instruction throughout. Attendees will be limited to 8 to ensure that everyone will receive individual support. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe course will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \n \nThe Course Timings:\nThe course runs from Saturday-Sunday\, 10:30am to 3:30pm on each day and offers a comprehensive programme. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nPractical demonstrations and exercises on drawing and watercolour painting.\nA course booklet to take home.\nAll art materials to use on the day.\nA simple lunch plus tea and coffee throughout the day.\n\n \nWhat you will need to bring:\nYou may wish to bring an art apron or overall. \nAccess:\n\nWe offer free designated car parking for up to 8 vehicles found next to our private road. The studio is then accessed by a short 2-minute walk.\nIn addition\, we also have parking for two cars found closer to the studio requiring reduced walking and no steps.\nPlease note that our studio bathroom facilities are found on the first floor accessed by a set of stairs. However\, we can arrange alternative ground floor facilities\, with advanced notice.\n\nFor further details on access\, please consult our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss any access arrangements\, please contact Sharon. You will find her contact details at the bottom of the page. \nDirections:\nPlease see our full address and Google Map link at the bottom of this page. For your convenience\, we will also send you detailed directions after you have completed your booking. In the meantime\, you may also wish to refer to our Contact Us & Directions page for further details.
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/developing-abstract-techniques-course/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Courses,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_1495.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261121T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261121T160000
DTSTAMP:20260906T105825Z
CREATED:20251030T193810Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260906T105825Z
UID:11536-1795266000-1795276800@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Beginner's Drawing Workshop - Nov
DESCRIPTION:Beginner’s Drawing Workshop – Event Details\nOverview:\nDuring the beginner’s drawing workshop\, you will be guided step-by-step in order build your skills and confidence levels in drawing. This is a short\, comprehensive taster session for you to learn and practise the fundamentals. \nExample of the workshop programme:\n\nFirstly\, we will be exploring techniques\, and you will practice achieving different marks\, tones and textures using pencil.\nFollowing\, you will apply tonal shading focusing on highlights and shadows to develop your understanding of how to draw accurate forms. Furthermore\, we will explore how to create depth and perspective in your work.\nAfterwards\, you will consolidate your learning by achieving a more final image applying a range of drawing techniques which will more fully explore the elements previously learnt.\n\n \nExperience level:\nThis workshop is suitable for beginners to improvers as there will be guided instruction throughout. Attendees will be limited to 8 to ensure that everyone will receive individual support. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe workshop will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \n \nThe workshop timings:\nThe workshop runs from 1pm-4pm. Please arrive for 12:45 for welcome drinks. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nPractical demonstrations and exercises on drawing.\nA course booklet to take home.\nAll art materials to use on the day.\nTea or coffee.\n\n \nWhat you will need to bring:\nJust yourself! We include all materials and refreshments for your convenience. \nAccess:\n\nWe offer free designated car parking for up to 8 vehicles found next to our private road. The studio is then accessed by a short 2-minute walk.\nIn addition\, we also have parking for two cars found closer to the studio requiring reduced walking and no steps.\nPlease note that our studio bathroom facilities are found on the first floor accessed by a set of stairs. However\, we can arrange alternative ground floor facilities\, with advanced notice.\n\nFor further details on access\, please consult our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss any access arrangements\, please contact Sharon. You will find her contact details at the bottom of the page. \nDirections:\nPlease see our full address and Google Map link at the bottom of this page. For your convenience\, we will also send you detailed directions after you have completed your booking. In the meantime\, you may also wish to refer to our Contact Us & Directions page for further details.
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/beginners-drawing-workshop-nov/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Workshop,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG_1563-scaled-e1754037877113.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261212T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261212T160000
DTSTAMP:20260906T105958Z
CREATED:20251030T201226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260906T105958Z
UID:11545-1797080400-1797091200@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Beginner's Watercolour Workshop - December
DESCRIPTION:Beginner’s Watercolour Workshop – Event Details\nOverview:\nDuring this beginner’s watercolour workshop\, you will learn how to work with increasing confidence and proficiently in watercolour. You will be expertly guided in different watercolour techniques to develop your skills. Furthermore\, you will have plenty of opportunity to practise the different techniques to consolidate your learning. \nExample of the workshop programme:\n\nFirstly\, you will receive step-by-step practical demonstrations on lots of different watercolour technique with full guidance at every stage. This will include how to fully experiment with watercolour to achieve amazing creative effects.\nAfterwards\, you will learn how to achieve finer details and increasing control by completing a practice piece. By the end of the watercolour workshop\, you will aim to achieve an accomplished watercolour painting which you can proudly take home.\n\n \nExperience level:\nThis art workshop is suitable for beginners to improvers as there will be guided instruction throughout. Attendees will be limited to 8 to ensure that everyone will receive individual support. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe workshop will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \n \nThe workshop timings:\nThe workshop runs from 1pm-4pm. Please arrive for 12:45 for welcome drinks. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nPractical demonstrations and exercises on drawing.\nA course booklet to take home.\nAll art materials to use on the day.\nTea or coffee.\n\n \nWhat you will need to bring:\nJust yourself! We include all materials and refreshments for your convenience. \nAccess:\n\nWe offer free designated car parking for up to 8 vehicles found next to our private road. The studio is then accessed by a short 2-minute walk.\nIn addition\, we also have parking for two cars found closer to the studio requiring reduced walking and no steps.\nPlease note that our studio bathroom facilities are found on the first floor accessed by a set of stairs. However\, we can arrange alternative ground floor facilities\, with advanced notice.\n\nFor further details on access\, please consult our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss any access arrangements\, please contact Sharon. You will find her contact details at the bottom of the page. \nDirections:\nPlease see our full address and Google Map link at the bottom of this page. For your convenience\, we will also send you detailed directions after you have completed your booking. In the meantime\, you may also wish to refer to our Contact Us & Directions page for further details.
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/beginners-watercolour-workshop-december/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Workshop,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_1073-1-scaled.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270130T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270131T153000
DTSTAMP:20261008T084247Z
CREATED:20261008T084247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T084247Z
UID:12587-1801305000-1801409400@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Capturing Winter Landscapes Course
DESCRIPTION:Capturing Winter Landscapes – Course Details\nDiscover how to capture the striking contrasts of winter landscapes in watercolour. \nIn this watercolour painting course\, you’ll draw inspiration from winter landscapes while learning to paint dramatic shadows\, snowy highlights and vivid accents of colour. \nYou’ll learn to: \n\nWork with a winter palette of cool blues and purples\, balanced with translucent oranges and crimsons\nApply watercolour techniques to achieve depth and shadow\nStrengthen your drawing skills to depict bare branches and textured bark detail\nCreate balanced\, engaging compositions\n\nExperience level:\nThe course offers step-by-step tuition in tasks that have been carefully designed for improving knowledge and skill level. Due to the teacher-led activities\, the course is most suitable for beginners to improvers. However\, more experienced artists are welcome to attend and are encouraged to work as independently as desired. \nMost importantly\, attendees are limited to 8 to ensure that everyone can receive the help and support that they need. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe course will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert and tailored guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nAccess to visual exemplar\, worksheets and drawing aids for guidance during the course.\nAccess to art materials to use throughout the course.\nA light lunch plus teas and coffees.\n\nWhat you will need to bring:\n\nPlease bring an A4 folder to transport your artworks in.\nYou may also wish to bring an art apron.\nWe’ll provide all materials\, resources and refreshments during the course.\n\nDirections:\nOur full address and Google Map link are available at the bottom of this page. Once you have completed your booking\, we will also send you detailed directions. In the meantime\, you can find more information on our Contact Us & Directions page. \nAccess:\n\nFree designated parking is available for up to eight vehicles beside our private road. The studio is then a short two-minute walk away.\nWe also have two parking spaces closer to the studio\, with a shorter walk and no steps.\nPlease note that the studio bathroom is on the first floor and is accessed by stairs. With advance notice\, we can arrange alternative ground-floor facilities.\n\nFor more information about access\, please visit our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss access arrangements\, please contact Sharon using the details at the bottom of this page. \nCancellation Policy:\nTo receive a full refund\, minus a £10 cancellation fee\, you must cancel your event ticket at least 21 days before the event start time. Because places are limited\, this notice period gives us time to resell your ticket. \nPlease email sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk within the above stated timeframe for us to process the cancellation. \nFor our full Terms & Conditions\, please visit https://bhretreats.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. \n  \n 
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/capturing-winter-landscapes-course/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Courses,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/europeana-o_215HDAov4-unsplash.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270227T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270228T153000
DTSTAMP:20261014T040247Z
CREATED:20261008T091332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T040247Z
UID:12596-1803724200-1803828600@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Creative Sketchbook Techniques Course
DESCRIPTION:Creative Sketchbook Techniques – Course Details\nUnlock new ways to spark ideas\, build confidence and develop original artwork in this creative sketchbook course.  \nThrough guided exercises and material exploration\, you’ll learn practical strategies for overcoming creative blocks and turning inspiration into personal\, expressive sketchbook pages. \nDuring the course\, you’ll learn how to: \n\nDevelop ideas that inspire and inform your own artwork\nExperiment with materials to grow your creativity and strengthen your technique\nUse drawing techniques to record\, explore and refine your ideas\nCreate a sketchbook that feels personal\, inspiring and full of creative potential\n\nExperience level:\nThe course offers step-by-step tuition in tasks that have been carefully designed for improving knowledge and skill level. Due to the teacher-led activities\, the course is most suitable for beginners to improvers. However\, more experienced artists are welcome to attend and are encouraged to work as independently as desired. \nMost importantly\, attendees are limited to 8 to ensure that everyone can receive the help and support that they need. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe course will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert and tailored guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nAccess to visual exemplar\, worksheets and drawing aids for guidance during the course.\nAccess to art materials to use throughout the course.\nA light lunch plus teas and coffees.\n\nWhat you will need to bring:\n\nPlease bring an A4 sketchbook with paper weight of at least 200g.\nYou may also wish to bring an art apron.\nWe’ll provide all materials\, resources and refreshments during the course.\n\nDirections:\nOur full address and Google Map link are available at the bottom of this page. Once you have completed your booking\, we will also send you detailed directions. In the meantime\, you can find more information on our Contact Us & Directions page. \nAccess:\n\nFree designated parking is available for up to eight vehicles beside our private road. The studio is then a short two-minute walk away.\nWe also have two parking spaces closer to the studio\, with a shorter walk and no steps.\nPlease note that the studio bathroom is on the first floor and is accessed by stairs. With advance notice\, we can arrange alternative ground-floor facilities.\n\nFor more information about access\, please visit our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss access arrangements\, please contact Sharon using the details at the bottom of this page. \nCancellation Policy:\nTo receive a full refund\, minus a £10 cancellation fee\, you must cancel your event ticket at least 21 days before the event start time. Because places are limited\, this notice period gives us time to resell your ticket. \nPlease email sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk within the above stated timeframe for us to process the cancellation. \nFor our full Terms & Conditions\, please visit https://bhretreats.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/.
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/creative-sketchbook-techniques-course/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Courses,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/creative-sketchbooks-1.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270320T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270321T153000
DTSTAMP:20261014T044135Z
CREATED:20261008T103510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T044135Z
UID:12605-1805538600-1805643000@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Pen and Wash Urban Landscapes Course
DESCRIPTION:Pen and Wash Urban Landscapes – Course Details\nDiscover creative ways to capture the colour and movement of urban landscapes in this pen and wash course. \nYou’ll explore expressive pen and wash techniques to depict light\, reflections\, shadows and movement. \nYou’ll learn to: \n\nUnderstand how to use atmospheric and linear perspective to create depth\nExperiment with creative drawing techniques\, including continuous line and gestural mark-making\nUse loose\, expressive watercolour washes to add vibrancy and drama to your artwork\nDevelop creativity and a playful approach to using media\n\nExperience level:\nThe course offers step-by-step tuition in tasks that have been carefully designed for improving knowledge and skill level. Due to the teacher-led activities\, the course is most suitable for beginners to improvers. However\, more experienced artists are welcome to attend and are encouraged to work as independently as desired. \nMost importantly\, attendees are limited to 8 to ensure that everyone can receive the help and support that they need. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe course will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert and tailored guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nAccess to visual exemplar\, worksheets and drawing aids for guidance during the course.\nAccess to art materials to use throughout the course.\nA light lunch plus teas and coffees.\n\nWhat you will need to bring:\n\nPlease bring an A4 folder to store and transport your artworks in.\nYou may also wish to bring an art apron.\nWe’ll provide all materials\, resources and refreshments during the course.\n\nDirections:\nOur full address and Google Map link are available at the bottom of this page. Once you have completed your booking\, we will also send you detailed directions. In the meantime\, you can find more information on our Contact Us & Directions page. \nAccess:\n\nFree designated parking is available for up to eight vehicles beside our private road. The studio is then a short two-minute walk away.\nWe also have two parking spaces closer to the studio\, with a shorter walk and no steps.\nPlease note that the studio bathroom is on the first floor and is accessed by stairs. With advance notice\, we can arrange alternative ground-floor facilities.\n\nFor more information about access\, please visit our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss access arrangements\, please contact Sharon using the details at the bottom of this page. \nCancellation Policy:\nTo receive a full refund\, minus a £10 cancellation fee\, you must cancel your event ticket at least 21 days before the event start time. Because places are limited\, this notice period gives us time to resell your ticket. \nPlease email sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk within the above stated timeframe for us to process the cancellation. \nFor our full Terms & Conditions\, please visit https://bhretreats.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. \n 
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/pen-and-wash-urban-landscapes-course/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Courses,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/IMG_4881-1.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270424T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270425T153000
DTSTAMP:20261008T110330Z
CREATED:20261008T110330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T110330Z
UID:12609-1808562600-1808667000@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Animal Portraits Course
DESCRIPTION:Animal Portraits – Course Details\nLearn to create realistic and expressive artwork with coloured pencil\, and watercolour in this animal portrait course.  \nYou will develop skills in accurate drawing\, layering texture\, colour\, and creating depth. \nYou’ll learn to: \n\nDraw animals with increasing accurately with practical techniques\nUse coloured pencil and watercolour effectively through demonstrations and guided practice\nControl each medium to create fine details and subtle textures\nComplete polished\, yet easy to achieve animal portraits\n\nExperience level:\nThe course offers step-by-step tuition in tasks that have been carefully designed for improving knowledge and skill level. Due to the teacher-led activities\, the course is most suitable for beginners to improvers. However\, more experienced artists are welcome to attend and are encouraged to work as independently as desired. \nMost importantly\, attendees are limited to 8 to ensure that everyone can receive the help and support that they need. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe course will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert and tailored guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nAccess to visual exemplar\, worksheets and drawing aids for guidance during the course.\nAccess to art materials to use throughout the course.\nA light lunch plus teas and coffees.\n\nWhat you will need to bring:\n\nPlease bring an A4 folder to store and transport your artworks in.\nYou may also wish to bring an art apron.\nWe’ll provide all materials\, resources and refreshments during the course.\n\nDirections:\nOur full address and Google Map link are available at the bottom of this page. Once you have completed your booking\, we will also send you detailed directions. In the meantime\, you can find more information on our Contact Us & Directions page. \nAccess:\n\nFree designated parking is available for up to eight vehicles beside our private road. The studio is then a short two-minute walk away.\nWe also have two parking spaces closer to the studio\, with a shorter walk and no steps.\nPlease note that the studio bathroom is on the first floor and is accessed by stairs. With advance notice\, we can arrange alternative ground-floor facilities.\n\nFor more information about access\, please visit our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss access arrangements\, please contact Sharon using the details at the bottom of this page. \nCancellation Policy:\nTo receive a full refund\, minus a £10 cancellation fee\, you must cancel your event ticket at least 21 days before the event start time. Because places are limited\, this notice period gives us time to resell your ticket. \nPlease email sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk within the above stated timeframe for us to process the cancellation. \nFor our full Terms & Conditions\, please visit https://bhretreats.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. \n 
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/animal-portraits-course/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Courses,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_3613-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270522T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270523T153000
DTSTAMP:20261014T041642Z
CREATED:20261008T113502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T041642Z
UID:12612-1810981800-1811086200@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Expressive Mixed-Media Gardens Course
DESCRIPTION:Expressive Mixed-Media Gardens– Course Details\n Create expressive mixed-media artwork inspired by the colours of spring. \nBuild your skills in composition\, expressive drawing\, and colour mixing as you capture vibrant foliage and seasonal shades. \nYou’ll learn to: \n\nDepict close-up landscapes using expressive\, easy to apply drawing techniques.\nExperiment with a variety of art materials\, including pastels\, charcoal\, and watercolour.\nPractise colour mixing to create fresh\, vibrant artwork without producing muddy tones.\nCompose creative artworks with a clear understanding of balance and depth.\n\nExperience level:\nThe course offers step-by-step tuition in tasks that have been carefully designed for improving knowledge and skill level. Due to the teacher-led activities\, the course is most suitable for beginners to improvers. However\, more experienced artists are welcome to attend and are encouraged to work as independently as desired. \nMost importantly\, attendees are limited to 8 to ensure that everyone can receive the help and support that they need. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe course will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert and tailored guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nAccess to visual exemplar\, worksheets and drawing aids for guidance during the course.\nAccess to art materials to use throughout the course.\nA light lunch plus teas and coffees.\n\nWhat you will need to bring:\n\nPlease bring an A4 folder to store and transport your artworks in.\nYou may also wish to bring an art apron.\nWe’ll provide all materials\, resources and refreshments during the course.\n\nDirections:\nOur full address and Google Map link are available at the bottom of this page. Once you have completed your booking\, we will also send you detailed directions. In the meantime\, you can find more information on our Contact Us & Directions page. \nAccess:\n\nFree designated parking is available for up to eight vehicles beside our private road. The studio is then a short two-minute walk away.\nWe also have two parking spaces closer to the studio\, with a shorter walk and no steps.\nPlease note that the studio bathroom is on the first floor and is accessed by stairs. With advance notice\, we can arrange alternative ground-floor facilities.\n\nFor more information about access\, please visit our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss access arrangements\, please contact Sharon using the details at the bottom of this page. \nCancellation Policy:\nTo receive a full refund\, minus a £10 cancellation fee\, you must cancel your event ticket at least 21 days before the event start time. Because places are limited\, this notice period gives us time to resell your ticket. \nPlease email sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk within the above stated timeframe for us to process the cancellation. \nFor our full Terms & Conditions\, please visit https://bhretreats.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. \n 
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/expressive-mixed-media-gardens/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Courses,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/dimmis-vart-u1Vtl1_qQWk-unsplash-1.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20271106T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20271106T160000
DTSTAMP:20261001T094421Z
CREATED:20260930T142515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T094421Z
UID:12501-1825506000-1825516800@bhretreats.co.uk
SUMMARY:Essential Drawing Techniques Workshop – Nov
DESCRIPTION:Essential Drawing Techniques Workshop – Event Details\nOverview:\nDuring the workshop\, you will be guided step-by-step in order build your skills and confidence levels in drawing. This is a short\, comprehensive taster session for you to learn and practise the fundamentals of essential drawing techniques. \nExample of the workshop programme:\n\nFirstly\, we will be exploring techniques\, and you will practise achieving different marks\, tones and textures using pencil.\nFollowing\, you will apply tonal shading focusing on highlights and shadows to develop your understanding of how to draw accurate forms. Furthermore\, we will explore how to create depth and perspective in your work.\nAfterwards\, you will consolidate your learning by achieving a more final image applying a range of drawing techniques which will more fully explore the elements previously learnt.\n\n \nExperience level:\nThis art workshop is suitable for beginners to improvers as there will be guided instruction throughout. Attendees will be limited to 8 to ensure that everyone will receive individual support. \nAbout the tutor:\nThe workshop will be led by Sharon Brookes who is the proprietor and lead tutor of Backbury House Retreats. She has a degree in Art\, is a practising artist as well as a fully qualified art teacher with 30 years’ experience of teaching in a range of educational settings. \nThe workshop timings:\nThe workshop runs from 1pm-4pm. Please arrive for 12:45 for welcome drinks. \nWhat’s included:\n\nExpert guidance by a fully qualified art teacher.\nPractical demonstrations and exercises on drawing techniques.\nA course booklet containing all course content to take home.\nThe use of art materials for the day.\nA choice of tea\, coffee and biscuits.\n\n\nWhat you will need to bring:\nJust bring yourself—we’ll provide all materials and refreshments. \nDirections:\nOur full address and Google Map link are available at the bottom of this page. Once you have completed your booking\, we will also send you detailed directions. In the meantime\, you can find more information on our Contact Us & Directions page. \nAccess:\n\nFree designated parking is available for up to eight vehicles beside our private road. The studio is then a short two-minute walk away.\nWe also have two parking spaces closer to the studio\, with a shorter walk and no steps.\nPlease note that the studio bathroom is on the first floor and is accessed by stairs. With advance notice\, we can arrange alternative ground-floor facilities.\n\nFor more information about access\, please visit our studio facilities page. If you would like to discuss access arrangements\, please contact Sharon using the details at the bottom of this page. \nCancellation Policy:\nTo receive a full refund\, minus a £10 cancellation fee\, you must cancel your event ticket at least 21 days before the event start time. Because places are limited\, this notice period gives us time to resell your ticket. \nPlease email sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk within the above stated timeframe for us to process the cancellation. \nFor our full Terms & Conditions\, please visit https://bhretreats.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/.
URL:https://bhretreats.co.uk/event/essential-drawing-techniques-workshop-nov/
LOCATION:Backbury House Studio\, Backbury House\, Checkley\, Hereford\, Herefordshire\, HR1 4NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Workshop,Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bhretreats.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/IMG_4901.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Sharon Brookes":MAILTO:sbrookes@bhretreats.co.uk
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