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Over 60s Art

Use simple, fun techniques, and gain skills and confidence in a range of materials while developing a personal style. This course is not suitable for absolute beginners as much of the work is advanced, experimental and/or relates to exhibitions visited by the class. There are many other painting and drawing classes at the Mary Ward Centre or Blackfriars Centre which would be more suitable.
  • Who is it for?

    Any person over 60 who is wants to learn to draw and paint and who is interested in learning to 'make things'. Don't worry if you don't have good eyesight or a steady hand or if you have any other physical or learning difficulties - you will be included in all activities and extra help can be given if necessary. Just have a word with your tutor on the first day of term.

  • What does it cover?

    Structure:
    Each term we will experiment with different techniques in drawing, painting, or collage. We will also be exploring different crafts, both traditional and new. A typical term might include drawing, painting, decoupage, sewing felt accessories, jewellery making and working with glass or metal. We will try to design the course according to the interests of the majority of the students and you will be encouraged to work on your own projects, with help and/or advise if you need it.
    Aims:
    To initiate and establish a productive, friendly and fun art and craft activity group
    To develop confidence when discussing your own work and that of others.
    To enable and promote confidence in making items and visual expression
    To promote confidence when using different materials and techniques
    To encourage, where appropriate, the development of individual projects

    Topics:
    Topics include how to create and understand the importance of colour, tone, composition, contrast and texture in 2D and 3D image-making.
    ' Using marks, shape, tone and colour in various ways.
    ' Using various materials to make 2D and 3D images and objects
    ' Using different materials and techniques
    ' Discussing, appreciating and learning from your own and others' work
    ' Gaining confidence in developing your individual style and subject matter
    ' Discussing and collaborating with the group, and learning and practicing the
    skills of constructive self-critique

  • What will it be like?

    We aim to provide a safe and friendly class atmosphere in a programme which will be, as much as possible, student led. The course is based in the Mary Ward Centre craft room and so, over the year, you will be able to learn many of the crafts usually taught in this specialist studio.
    The days will usually start with a video or PowerPoint display followed by a discussion and a demonstration. There will be a written handout to help you, and one-to-one help will be given by the tutor throughout the lesson. There will be an optional break for tea or coffee in the morning. At the end of the lesson there will be an opportunity for all students to show their work for a positive critique from the tutor and other students.

  • What else do I need to buy or do?

    Basic materials (pencils, paint, brushes, palettes, paper, carft materails) to be provided
    by Mary Ward. Students may bring in any of their own materials if they
    wish. I may ask them to collect collage materials. e.g. magazines, where possible.

  • What could it lead to?

    You may wish to join other art or craft classes at the Mary Ward Centre and/or elsewhere, building on the skills that you have acquired on this course. Specialist courses are available, or you may wish to continue with this course, improving newly-acquired skills.
    There is detailed information in Reception about all our courses at the Mary Ward Centre.
    Information about other learning opportunities can be obtained from Learn Direct: www.learndirect.co.uk and from the following websites: www.floodlight.co.uk; www.hotcourses.com; www.citylit.ac.uk; www.wmcollege.ac.uk; www.morleycollege.ac.uk

Available Courses

Over 60s Art

Use simple, fun techniques, and gain skills and confidence in a range of materials while developing a personal style. This course is not suitable for absolute beginners as much of the work is advanced, experimental and/or relates to exhibitions visited by the class. There are many other painting and drawing classes at the Mary Ward Centre or Blackfriars Centre which would be more suitable.

25 April 2024 – 11 July 2024
Thursday, 10:00 to 13:00
Course Code:15
£95 / £33
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
Enquire
28 September 2023 – 14 December 2023
Thursday, 10:00 to 13:00
Course Code:13
£95 / £33
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
Enquire
11 January 2024 – 28 March 2024
Thursday, 10:00 to 13:00
Course Code:14
£95 / £33
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
Enquire

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Watercolour Encounters

This course is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of watercolour art and its various applications. Delve into traditional and experimental watercolor techniques, encounter a variety of interesting and stimulating subject matter, and receive support from a specialist art tutor.

23 March 2024 – 23 March 2024
Saturday, 10:30 to 16:30
Course Code:1265
£40 / £15
1 Meeting
High Street, Stratford
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Life Drawing - Short and Long Poses

A mixed level life drawing course using short and long poses, focusing on line, light, colour and composition. Explore the numerous differing influences from ancient far eastern to western mainstream.

22 April 2024 – 15 July 2024
Monday, 10:00 to 13:00
Course Code:1215CS
£291 / £102
11 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
View Course
25 September 2023 – 11 December 2023
Monday, 10:00 to 13:00
Course Code:1213CS
£314 / £110
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
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08 January 2024 – 25 March 2024
Monday, 10:00 to 13:00
Course Code:1214CS
£314 / £110
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
View Course

Drawing: Absolute Beginners

Learn the basics of drawing using various media, building your skills and confidence, in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

22 April 2024 – 15 July 2024
Monday, 14:00 to 17:00
Course Code:1206
£240 / £84
11 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
View Course
25 September 2023 – 11 December 2023
Monday, 14:00 to 17:00
Course Code:1204
£261 / £91
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
View Course
08 January 2024 – 25 March 2024
Monday, 14:00 to 17:00
Course Code:1205
£261 / £91
12 Meetings
High Street, Stratford
View Course

Meet The Tutor

For more information contact The Departmental Administrator at admin@marywardcentre.ac.uk

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