Learn Abstract Painting

Explore the expressive world of abstraction and build your painting skills in this inspiring new course.

We welcome complete beginners as well as artists with some experience. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to expand your creative practice, you’ll experiment, take risks, and grow your confidence with acrylics.

Ecological artist and tutor Judith Lawson leads the course and shares her passion for connecting art with nature. Together, you’ll draw inspiration from the world around you as you explore colour, texture, and intuitive mark-making.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:

Essential abstract painting skills using acrylics

Composition, layering, texture, colour relationships, and material handling

Practical exercises that loosen your approach and build confidence

During the first two sessions, you’ll work on paper to develop core techniques. Then, you’ll move on to refining your personal style and exploring your ideas more deeply.

WHAT TO BRING: 

This is an idea of what to bring to start but it wont matter if you don’t have it all. On the first session Judith will talk about materials before you go off and buy products you may not use.

For the first session we will begin using drawing materials – bring pencil(s) Just a good soft B and/or charcoal. We will be working on paper (this will be provided) We will then move on to incorporate painting into the drawings

BRUSHES – 1 large or medium flat brush,1 small flat brush, 1 round or Filbert brush

inexpensive or old brushes are fine to get started

ACRYLICS AND INKS

Ink – Schminke Aerocolour 1 or 2 colours that appeal to you

it’s a great choice and a few drops go a long way.

Paints

Titanium White

Ultramarine Blue

Burnt Umber

Yellow Ochre

Red – cadmium or similar

Green – sap or pthalo

try and avoid poor quality paints but you dont need the most expensive either.

PAINTING PALETTE

A plate or StaWet Palette (good for paint lasting longer)

GENERAL ITEMS

Masking Tape

Paper towels, rags

Apron/Old Clothes

SURFACES (choose one below)

Canvas panel

Small stretched Canvas

Heavy Paper

Thin Ply

Salvaged Wood

Judith offers clear, step-by-step instruction while encouraging your individual expression. You’ll experiment with gesture painting, natural forms, and mindful observation of space and structure. Throughout the course, you’ll stay curious, try new approaches, and paint without pressure.

By the end, you’ll strengthen your technical skills, deepen your understanding of abstract art, and complete several artworks to take home.

Please note there is NO refund or a transfer if you cancel less than 7 days in advance or once the class/workshop has started. Our refund policy can be read in full here.