Creative Sketchbooks – June 2023
I wanted to find out how to use a sketchbook to support developing art projects and it has done exactly this.”
Cathy J
This course gives students a structure to working in their sketchbooks. Artists use sketchbooks in a very specific way – to help drive forward and develop new ideas. Without a clear direction, creativity requires a framework to wander and explore, so as to eventually meander more purposefully towards a specific outcome. To ensure artists don’t simply get lost and ensure they reach a creative outcome – a painting, a dress design, a new technique – having a framework for your sketchbooks is vital. Just a few students on this course, but still, we had a wonderful weekend together.
Read further to find out what the students thought of their experience.
Student comments
“Do it!! You won’t regret it. [I learned] to not be afraid of thinking you’ve got something wrong. [My course highlights were] achieving pages in the sketchbook with Brian’s tutoring and advice. [The course] has generally explained the difference between a sketchbook and other ways of recording information. Brian is a very considerate, caring and knowledgeable tutor. The course is very busy but also in a relaxed atmosphere.”
Lesley C
“A person who did not know how to start and fill a blank page, I have finished the 2 day course feeling more confident with lots of ideas I want to try out. [I have learned] how to use a sketchbook to experiment and take the first steps to try out different techniques, use a variety of materials and be creative. [My course highlights were] just enjoyed having time to relax and draw which I have not done in a long time. I feel it has given me ideas, techniques which I will carry on to develop my Shropshire project.”
Jane M
“Very hands on, a chance to experiment, learn new techniques, get messy and create. [I have learned] how to use a sketchbook to generate a develop ideas (as well as some new techniques). This will help me fine tune ideas, experiment, develop more complete pieces of work. It has been a chance to immerse myself in playing with materials and ideas and have freedom to get things wrong as well as right. I wanted to find out how to use a sketchbook to support developing art projects and it has done exactly this.”
Cathy J
