Workshops and Events
Acrylic Painting with Mandy McAllen – Summer School – a programme of 3 workshops
Whether you prefer to spread paint on thick and juicy or mix it thin and transparent; whether you work with vibrant colours or blend subtle hues, acrylic is a very versatile medium offering as many possibilities as your imagination allows.
In a course of three workshop lessons with Mandy McAllen, you can learn the skills to express your ideas.
For those who want to build their confidence.
Further Information:
This course consists of three sessions, held on Wednesdays from 10:15 am to 12:45 pm.
Session dates: 5th Aug, 19th Aug, 9th Sept
Whether you’re interested in landscapes, portraits, or abstract painting, it’s essential to develop a solid understanding of your materials – what they can do and how to use them effectively.
In this course, you’ll explore the fundamentals of acrylic painting, including colour mixing, brushwork, and a range of techniques, supported by creative and enjoyable exercises in a friendly environment.
Mandy will also share her expertise on materials, colour choices, surfaces, and brushes.
Please bring:
An apron or overall (note: acrylic paint does not wash out!)
Any paints and brushes you already own – we can discuss these in class
A disposable mixing palette, or a white china/plastic plate
A water pot
Rags
And most importantly, an open mind!
Please choose shipping option G) Workshops free shipping
Please note: when purchasing a place on this workshop, the email confirmation serves as a ticket; we will have your name for the workshop so there is no need to print it out.
£105 pp
Please book your place here
Book your tickets here
or go to your Eventbrite account or app.
DRAWING WORKSHOPS
WITH JULIA MCKENZIE
Each of these day-long workshops is a standalone session.
However, booking all three will allow you to broaden your skills and experience across a range of techniques.
Workshop 1 – Saturday 29th August. 10:30am to 4pm – £70 pp
Workshop 2 – Saturday 5th September. 10:30am to 4pm – £70 pp
Workshop 3 – Saturday 12th September. 10:30am to 4pm – £70 pp
‘The world around us is a magical place and observing it deliberately allows us to slow down and bask in the wonder just outside our front doors… if we care to look’.
Frances Tophill – A wildflower year 2025
Artist Julia McKenzie produced more than 70 drawings and paintings to illustrate Frances Tophill’s wonderful book celebrating some of the author’s favourite wildflowers. These original works will be featured in an exhibition at ACE Arts celebrating the publication.
Join Julia for this full-day drawing workshop, where she will share her knowledge and experience of observing and recording the plants and flowers found in the natural world. Through a range of drawing tools and techniques, you will develop skills in using line, colour and texture, while exploring ways to combine delicate linework with expressive shape and layered colour.
With more than 30 years of teaching experience alongside her own artistic practice, Julia has developed a fluid line and a keen observational style that communicates the imperfect perfection of nature.
“I celebrate the lost, fragile and forgotten characteristics of the natural world.”
During the workshop, Julia will introduce some of the artists who have influenced her practice, including Dürer, Ivon Hitchens, Jan van Kessel and Mary Delany. Surrounded by flowers, plants, insects and natural specimens, participants will draw from direct observation throughout the day.
By the end of the workshop, you will have strengthened your observational drawing skills, developed greater hand–eye coordination, gained confidence in experimenting with different techniques, and discovered new ways to capture the beauty and character of the natural world.
For further info and booking, click here
Free weekly creative sessions — open to everyone, no need to book.
✨ Create & Connect
Wednesdays, 10:30–12:30
Bring along whatever you’re working on—whether it’s a sketchbook, drawing, crafting, or something else—and enjoy a friendly, supportive space to share ideas and connect with others.
✏️ Drawing for All
Thursdays, 10:30–12:30
Spend a morning drawing in our community cafe. Take inspiration from the current exhibition, capture the view from the windows, or sketch from still life in a relaxed atmosphere.
🧵 Sew Creative
Fridays, 10:30–12:30
Drop in for stitching sessions with fellow makers. We provide a selection of needles and threads—bring your own fabrics and let your creativity flow. Join our community project Known & Sewn.
Regular monthly sessions:
Silent Reading first Tuesday of the month, 11 – 1 pm, held in the Chappell Gallery, Free, donations welcome.
Knit and Crochet Club on the first Saturday of the month in the ACE Arts Cafe. 2- 4 pm, Free, donations welcome.
WORKSHOP TERMS AND CONDITIONS
A Cancellation must be made 7 days before the workshop date for a full refund; after that time, you will be offered the opportunity to transfer to another workshop of the same value. Your booking means you agree to these terms and conditions.
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