Calendar of Courses
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3 events,
FULLY BOOKED: STAINED GLASS WORK
Make a stained glass panel or a Tiffany-style lamp, developing key skills that will enable you to construct more elaborate projects later. Understand and use the techniques of template glass cutting, learn how to use grinding machines, copper foiling, leading application and final soldering. No experience required - be guided in all aspects by the
SPRING FLOWERS IN COLOURED PENCIL AND WATERCOLOUR
Immerse yourself in the delicate beauty of daffodils, bluebells and other spring flowers, drawing directly from flowers in the gardens at Higham. With Margaret's patient, expert guidance you will be encouraged to gently explore the remarkable artistic range of the humble pencil. For all. Margaret Eggleton Residential: £520 Non-residential: £385 (incl. field trips)
LIFE DRAWING
A traditional skill that increases accuracy within observational drawing, life drawing feeds into all areas of art practice. Expand, refine, and challenge yourself reinforcing all the essential fundamentals in a small group and working direct from a life model. Catherine MacDiarmid (Cumbria www.highamhall.com/catherine-macdiarmid) Residential: £410 Non-residential: £290
4 events,
FULLY BOOKED: FROM WALK TO WALL
This course focuses on developing a piece of work from initial sketches made outdoors to a painting completed in the studio. Students are welcome to work at their own pace with support and feedback from Alex as needed, or follow a structured plan with additional guidance and instruction which breaks down the process into easy, bite-size
BUTTERFLIES, MOTHS AND THE COUNTRYSIDE OF NORTH WEST CUMBRIA
For lovers of natural history and the countryside, and an eye opener for anyone wishing to improve awareness of the natural world. Walk contrasting Cumbrian sites where conservation management has helped the habitats of rare butterflies including the Marsh Fritillary, Mountain Ringlet, Small Blue and The Forester. Lecture presentations in the evening will consider wider
3 events,
RECORDERS IN CONCORD: GRADES VI-XIII
Play music in a recorder ensemble. For recorder players of advanced standard (grade 6 and above). Music will range from Renaissance to the present day, from three to eight or more parts. Technical and stylistic guidance as appropriate. Annemarie Klein (Edinburgh highamhall.com/annemarie-klein) Residential: £295 Non-residential: £215
6 events,
ESSENTIAL ART SKILLS: DRAWING HUMAN FORM
For beginners or a refresher to get to grips with the basics in drawing the Figure. The course includes an introduction to anatomy and proportions, fun quick projects and longer sessions working from a clothed model with guidance from practising artist Ceri Allen. Ceri Allen (Carlisle www.highamhall.com/ceri-allen) Residential: £290 Non-residential: £210
FULLY BOOKED: SUMMER FLOWER COMPOSITION IN COLOURED PENCIL
Guided by award-winning botanical artist Janie Pirie, you will develop a well-balanced composition using a variety of summer flowering plants, fruits, grasses and shrubs to highlight the diverse textures and colours of the season. You will select 3-5 stems to work with, and through a combination of demonstrations and one-to-one support you will learn and
FULLY BOOKED: LAKELAND BIRDS
Magnificent scree-covered slopes, tranquil lakes, hanging oak woodlands and dramatic sea cliffs are just a few of Cumbria's habitats which we will be exploring on this 5-day course. There will be short local trips to sample the best of Cumbria's summer birdlife including Wheatears, Ring Ouzels, Redstarts, Pied Flycatchers Wood Warblers and Ospreys to name
4 events,
FULLY BOOKED: DESIGN REPEAT PATTERNS WITH BOTANICAL IMAGERY
This is the second of two courses run back-to-back by award-winning botanical artist Janie Pirie, and will guide you through the process of making a repeat pattern using botanical imagery. Repeat patterns are used widely on wallpaper, wrapping paper and fabrics. You can choose a floral theme, foliage or just flowing shapes based loosely on a
5 events,
FULLY BOOKED: BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY
You will learn to strip a small item of furniture (e.g. a chair, stool, ottoman or headboard), tackle interior paddings and rebuild it using traditional or modern upholstery techniques as appropriate. You bring the item of furniture you want to restore and the fabric you would like to use; all the fillings, specialist tools, technical
SUMMER YOGA RETREAT
Explore the Yoga tradition, balancing seasonal effects through diet, daily routine and Yoga practice. Essentially practical, using posture, breathing, meditative techniques and just a tiny bit of theory. All levels welcome. Amanda Oakes(Cumbria www.highamhall.com/amanda-oakes) Residential: £290 Non-residential: £210
7 events,
SECRET SOLWAY (SHORT WALKS)
Take a journey through time exploring the lesser-known inner Solway estuary coast of both Cumbria and Dumfries & Galloway. This is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Special Area of Conservation with internationally important salt marshes, sand dunes and wetlands; it is also rich in history, local culture and stories. It is renowned for
SUMMER STRING ORCHESTRA
A chance to experience the joy of string orchestra playing in the wonderful ambience of Higham Hall. This is an introductory course for string players, exploring the core repertoire for string orchestra to include Vivaldi, Elgar’s Serenade, Warlock’s Capriol Suite, Grieg’s Holberg Suite and Mozart’s Divertimenti. Course director Louise Latham (violin), plays in the Northern Chamber
TORCH FIRED ENAMEL BEADS
Make your own enamel beads then create beautiful jewellery from them under the expert guidance of Sharon Ford, leading enameller and restorer in enamels and gilding. Enamelling involves the fusion of jeweller's quality vitreous enamel with copper and silver through firing. When heat is applied, the enamels soften and flow, and the varying presence of
SUNDAY LECTURE: THE HIDDEN MAJORITY IN SOIL: WHY SOIL LIFE MATTERS
SUNDAY LECTURE: THE HIDDEN MAJORITY IN SOIL: WHY SOIL LIFE MATTERS
It has been estimated that 59% of all species on earth live in soil. This talk will explore the vast diversity of soil life: how it is distributed, what it does, and what threats it is under. The talk will also explore what can be done to protect and promote soil life and the critical
4 events,
FULLY BOOKED: TCHAIKOVSKY 4, 5 AND 6
Tchaikovsky’s last three symphonies are considered his greatest orchestral works. An obsession with fate tends to dominate the outer movements: ‘doom-laden’ and ‘heart-on the-sleeve’ are terms frequently applied. By contrast the middle movements are graceful, sounding not unlike ballet music. Following a now-familiar format, Ian will guide you expertly through these pieces, drawing out aspects
4 events,
FULLY BOOKED: RUSKIN LACE
A Lake District speciality since the late nineteenth century, Ruskin lace was made from hand-spun and woven linen produced by cottagers around Coniston. Karen is a leading exponent of this heritage craft who brings extensive knowledge to support and guide you in traditional needlepoint lace techniques along with drawn thread and cut linen work to
2 events,
BRITISH BMG FEDERATION SUMMER SCHOOL WEEKEND 2024
We welcome the British Banjo, Mandolin and Guitar Federation to Higham for the first time with three separate courses: Chris Sands' Finger-style 5-string Banjo; Roland Gallery's Art of Playing in Ensemble for mandolin family instruments and guitar (including bass), and Nigel Gatherer's Old Time Music for all instruments and levels of experience. Music reading and
4 events,
LIGHT ON THE LAKE: LANDSCAPE IN INK AND COLOURED PENCIL
This course combines the impact of ink with the softness and subtlety of coloured pencil, perfect for the lakeside in summer. Practise mark-making in ink and blending, embossing and lifting out in coloured pencil. Integrate both media to build a harmonious image using cool reflections, soft light and contrasting foliage shapes. This is slow and
IDENTIFYING TREES AND UNDERSTANDING WOODLANDS
Gain a better understanding of different tree species and their ecosystems, their relationships with fungi, soil and other trees, and how we depend on them; learn about the differences between native, exotic and naturalised trees and where they might be found. This course will involve some gentle guided walks (on the level) through local woodlands
ENAMEL BOWLS LARGE AND SMALL
This course will focus on making fired enamel copper bowls of different sizes. While there will be a range of sizes available to work with, those who have not made an enamel bowl before will be encouraged to start with a small bowl. Those with some experience of making small enamel bowls will have the
4 events,
A HISTORY OF NATIONS AND PEOPLES: NORTH AMERICA
From the days of the Pilgrim Fathers to the War of Independence and the settlement of lands west of the Mississippi, the story of the two nations of North America (USA and Canada) is a powerful and dramatic narrative of heroic pioneers, colonisation and conflict. A companion to David's GERMANY course, 21-23 June. Attend both
5 events,
FOLK SINGING WITH WILL AND ROSIE
A gentle introduction to singing folk music in three- and four-part harmony. Can’t read music? No problem - folk is an oral tradition, and we teach everything by ear. Learn how to warm up your voice, then sing in rounds and in parts, as you become acquainted with a wonderful folk repertoire with two expert
4 events,
FULLY BOOKED: MIDSUMMER YOGA AND WALKING WEEKEND
A perfect mix of hatha yoga sessions (working on postures, breathing exercises and relaxation) and guided hill walks of up to 5 miles, sometimes over rough and steep ground (requiring a reasonable level of fitness) among the peaceful northern fells - which will leave you feeling supple, relaxed and refreshed! Suitable for beginners and experienced.
A HISTORY OF NATIONS AND PEOPLES: GERMANY
From tribal communities opposed by Rome but celebrated by Tacitus, to a confederation of States uniting as a single nation, Germany's story is irrevocably linked to the fate and fortunes of other European countries across centuries. This is a companion to David's course on North America. Attend both and get FREE B&B for the day
3 events,
WATERCOLOURS WITH CONFIDENCE
Making the most of Higham’s beautiful building and grounds, we will paint from life in a variety of settings. Enjoy demonstrations and discussion in the studio, and painting en plein-air as the weather permits. Build your skills and technical understanding of the medium, try different compositional strategies and gain confidence with Jane’s gentle guidance and
3 events,
FULLY BOOKED: QUILTERS’ SUMMER RETREAT
Relax and create with new friends and old as you sew your day away. Lis will bring a selection of projects for you to tackle with her support; choose from a lap quilt, a wall hanging, or try your hand at bag-making. Alternatively bring a project from home to work on in the company of
4 events,
SINGING AND CIRCLE DANCING
Join us on a multicultural journey as we explore songs and dances from other countries and cultures. This course combines singing and dancing; offering a chance to dip into one or both. Previous experience of Circle Dance is not necessary. All welcome. Anne-Lise Kryger (Circle Dance www.highamhall.com/anne-lise-kryger) with Chris Hale (Singing www.highamhall.com/chris-hale) Residential: £420 Non-residential:
4 events,
PAINTING ROCKS AND MOUNTAINS
If you are shown a variety of ways to draw and paint pebbles it becomes easier to paint boulders. If you learn how to make up jagged rocks from construction models, then it's a small step to painting mountains using a blend of reference and imagination. The right knowledge and skills help you build up
5 events,
SING AMERICA!
Explore America in song! From the great cultural traditions of Gospel, Jazz, Country and Folk to classic Broadway, Swing and Pop. We will sing in 2- or 3-part harmony depending on voice balance, and you may be given sheet music but not expected to sight read. The emphasis is on fun! Complete beginners may struggle
PATCHWORK: BARGELLO
Bargello is usually thought of as an Italian embroidery/tapestry technique, but in this course we are going to be tackling the patchwork version. Use from five to fifteen fabrics to construct the design of your choice – or there is a two-fabric alternative. You can choose to make a wall hanging or a full quilt;
5 events,
WILLOW ANIMAL SCULPTURES
Delve into the creative world of willow animal sculpture with Phil Bradley, who has been a full-time professional basket-maker and willow sculptor since 1995. With Phil's patient and skillful guidance you will produce at least two sculptural pieces…a bird and a hare or small deer. All materials and tools provided. Phil Bradley (Cumbria www.highamhall.com/phil-bradley) Residential:
PAINTING THE SEA
Cumbria's west coast boasts a wide variety of shoreline subjects for the painter, from dramatic cliffs to tranquil seascapes. Join professional landscape painter Lionel Playford visiting old harbours, sandy beaches, rocky headlands and salt marshes for inspiration. Sharpen up your skills drawing en plein air and learn some useful techniques to capture the dynamism of