“Nature, from the Latin nasci means to become, to come from, that is to say, all that by its own force develops, forms, moves.” (Kurt Schwitters 1924) Iron, sandstone and slate have been mined in Cumbria for centuries and are still used to make artist colours such as Egremont red, St Bees yellow and Kirkby grey. Cumbria, a place of beauty, has been home and inspiration to generations of artists such as Kurt Schwitters, Winifred Nicholson, Li Yuan-chia and many more. This place and the artists who lived and worked here will be the starting point for our research, study and inspiration to produce drawings. You will spend two and a half days in the landscape, walking and responding to place. You will be encouraged to collect small samples of earth and stones to make your own pigments, textures or marks. Drawing exercises will focus on sensory experiences of place followed by studio time where you will be taught how to expand your experiences, drawings, research and notes into experiments, some using chance, and then into resolved pieces. Bring your usual drawing materials, sketchbook and/or paper and suitable footwear and clothing for the weather. On our way to St Bees beach, we will stop at Florence Arts Centre to visit the mine and studio where they process locally-sourced pigments. 

Caroline Wendling 

Residential: £510 Non-residential: £355 (includes fieldtrip)