Join Daniel Docherty and Sheetle Shah for this practical two-day course exploring sacred pattern and the art of henna. On the first day of the course Daniel will give an overview of the practice and philosophy of Mandalas from various traditions. Participants will be introduced to certain key characteristics and significant symbolism inherent within traditional Mandalas. We will learn how to construct some of these sacred patterns using the traditional tools of compass and straightedge. Sheetle, a henna artist with 20 years of experience with this traditional art form, will guide participants through the processes of making and preparing henna paste 'from scratch'. You will learn how to apply intricate patterns to paper, hands or feet depending on your preference! Henna is a natural pigment with remarkable staining qualities. You will learn how it is traditionally applied to hands and feet during festivals and celebrations; today, henna is also applied for ‘belly blessings’, cosmetic tattoos, semi-permanent face painting, hair dye and has developed many other creative roles.
A practical and participatory two-day introductory course for anyone wanting to develop a deeper relationship to ink and ochre. We will walk in the beautiful Ashdown Forest; we will reverently forage minerals and materials which we will transform - through various alchemical processes - into pigment, paint and ink. These endeavours will be accompanied by exercises in contemplative pattern construction and plein-air sketching.
Commission an original, traditional and quirky Portrait in oils, acrylics or digital sketches
Delve into the deep mysteries of Sacred Geometry - 'Art of the Ever-True', under the gentle guidance of SAOG Studios' senior tutor Daniel Docherty. You will learn how to draw the primary four, five and six fold 'Creation' Diagrams with the traditional geometer's tools of compass and straightedge. You will be introduced to the inherent symbolism of these symmetries and how they may be developed into a myriad of pattern possibilities. The pace of this weekend course will be set with beginners in mind and there will be time to enjoy conversation and colour ... and of course tea, coffee and cake!!!
Learn the Essentials of Gift Wrapping & have some fun with your team this festive season What’s included (and how it will help): Step by step tuition covering all the Essential Techniques of gift wrapping so they never need to grab a gift/bottle bag again Practical guidance on tying different styles of Ribbon Bow so they can confidently use them on any gift (and when it’s best to use each one) Learn Pro tips so you feel less overwhelmed & can gift wrap quickly at busy times Plus all materials are provided A class is a great opportunity for team building/bonding so that people get to know each other outside of a work setting and/or meet people in person. It’s an inclusive alternative to a Christmas party (boozy meals/discos aren’t for everyone) and everyone gets to take away a gift at the end of the class. Packages start from £597 for groups of up to 10 people. Dates & times can be booked to suit. Book a call below to discuss your requirements.
This one-day course will focus on the construction of some beautiful Moroccan geometric patterns using the traditional geometers' tools of compass and straightedge. Daniel Docherty will lead the class in a gently guided, step-by-step manner suitable for both beginners and experienced alike.
Woodcarving courses
A relaxed and informal Blackwork Embroidery course in the lovely setting of a converted 18th Century cotton mill in Warwick Bridge, Carlisle. This course has been designed to guide the complete beginner or act as a refresher for those who may have dabbled in Blackwork embroidery in the past. We will cover the history, styles of Blackwork embroidery, threads and techniques.
Get together with friends and family and learn the art of building a beautiful hand-tied bouquet of the best seasonal flowers. Mix a gorgeous selection of flowers, fillers and foliage using the 'spiralling' technique used by the pros to make your bouquet and gain lots of flower hacks, tips and tricks along the way. We finish by tying, wrapping and presenting and you'll leave with your floral creation to enjoy at home and the ability to do it all again.