Rheged has launched a creative learning programme featuring beginner-friendly classes taught by established artists and makers.
The first dates in this new and ongoing programme are now available to book online. Beginning on October 16, they are relaxed, hands-on workshops pitched at beginners and those who wish to develop existing skills in arts and crafts.
“We are delighted to announce the first dates in our new programme of creative learning,” said Claire Logan-Stephens, Rheged’s programming and partnership manager.
“With its Gallery, design shop and design-led spaces, Rheged is an inspirational place to try out new artistic pursuits, meet fellow enthusiasts and work with engaging teachers.”
Priced from £45 and ranging from two hours to two days, the classes take place mainly at weekends in a large, light-filled, well-ventilated space for groups of eight to 10 people, who will each have their own socially distanced table to work at.
The classes begin with A Taste of Acrylics (October16), a hands-on introduction to acrylic painting techniques led by Catherine MacDiarmid.
An established Cumbria-based artist who has exhibited in the BP Portrait Award and reached the semi-final of Sky’s Portrait Artist of the Year, Catherine has 26 years’ experience of teaching art courses.
She will also teach Portrait in a Day (November 21) and Introduction to Life Drawing (January 22). Catherine is a member of the Lake Artists Society and her work can be seen at the Society’s Annual Exhibition at Rheged until 21 November.
On October 17 there are two classes for budding glass artists to create their own artwork under the supervision of award-winning glass artist Roxanne Denny: Make a Fused Glass Bowl and Introduction to Glass Fusing.
On November 13, Jill Liley will teach beginners how to create beautiful hand-lettered cards using a traditional dip pen and ink on her Introduction to Modern Calligraphy.
With the festive season approaching, Rheged’s creative learning programme includes much inspiration for a crafted Christmas.
Ulverston-based artist Hanne Crank will guide beginners in making Needle-felted Christmas Tree Decorations (November 20) and decorating a Lake District Woodland Christmas Cake (December 12).
Glass artist Roxanne Denny returns on 27 November to lead students in handmaking Fused Glass Christmas Decorations.
Two Festive Wreaths workshops on December 5 promise two hours spent elbow deep in scented, sustainably grown fresh foliage and festive florals with Ashley Holden from Kendal’s The Floralistas.
The creative influence of nature is at the heart of several one-day and two-day workshops led by established printmakers.
On December 4, to coincide with the opening of Great Print 7 in Rheged’s Gallery, one of the exhibiting artists, Hester Cox will teach the first of two beginner-friendly courses in Collagraph Printmaking – a technique using collaged material, including found natural materials.
Aspiring printmakers can also enjoy Create Botanical Prints in Full Colour: Linocut for Beginners on December 11.
Cumbrian printmaker Laura Sowerby, who is known for the exquisite botanical wallpapers she creates in her Lake District studio, will encourage students through every stage of creating their own original botanical print.
“Making something with your hands, whether it’s a botanical print or a festive wreath, can be joyful and fulfilling,” said Claire Logan-Stephens.
“Our sociable classes are something uplifting to do for yourself, to enjoy with friends or to book as a treat for a loved one.”
For bookings and more information, including dates, descriptions, prices and maximum class sizes, visit rheged.com.
