2721 Recreational courses

A perfect opportunity to explore coloured pencil drawing for those who have never put pencil to paper.  Also a wonderful course for those newer to drawing and wanting to learn some basic techniques.

Tutor: Joseph Wilson During this 4-week course, we will use conventional black and white analogue materials in conjunction with non-conventional techniques to create images that stradle ordinary photographic representation and alternative vision. We will deviate from standard darkroom production through the practical exploration of a range of techniques such as Sabattier printing, bas relief printing, cameraless photography, and various methods for pushing and pulling film. These otherworldly techniques – many of which have been the basis for contemporary digital manipulation tools – offer abundant possibility for alternative photographic vision, where emphasis is placed on the transformative potential of darkroom work. This course would be the perfect follow up from our Intro to B&W or Colour Darkroom courses. All materials including photographic film and paper will be provided during this course. However, participants are encouraged to bring along some of their own black and white negatives. Camera know-how and prior darkroom experience are required for this course. Course Outline Week 1: Pushing and Pulling Film We will begin by considering non-conventional ways in which we can rate and process our films, and the various effects of doing so. Presentation and discussion on the uses of these techniques by artists. Shooting 5×4 film at various ISO ratings Using adjustments in time, temperature, dilution, and agitation to Push & Pull the film. Week 2: Possibilities in Print This week we will create prints from our negatives using alternative techniques. Review results in negatives and make contact prints. Sabattier effect printing Multiple exposure printing Bas Relief Printing Week 3: Cameraless Photography We will explore the possibilities of directly exposing through objects and ‘resists’ onto photographic paper. We will cover: Photograms Chemigrams Week 4: Lith Printing An introduction to Lith printing and the possibilities it affords us. A presentation on the history and uses of Lith printing Lith Printing from our negatives Combining non-conventional printing techniques with lith.   Courses are subject to minimum enrolment. Please register early, within five days of the start date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation. Please read our cancellation policy before booking. Students, anyone over the age of 65, and those in receipt of any form of benefits can claim the concessionary price, offering a 10% discount on the full course price. Valid proof of eligibility must be produced on the first day of the course. Please use the code CONCESSION when prompted at checkout. Stills uses ILFORD PHOTO chemicals on this course that can potentially pose a risk to pregnant and breast feeding women and asthmatics. We take every care to ensure good working practices and adequate ventilation in our darkrooms. If you feel you may be adversely affected, please visit the Health and Safety section of Ilford’s website for further information. General Guidance Notes for Pregnant and Breast Feeding Women and Asthmatics: From a risk assessment standpoint, provided all necessary control measures (such as good working practices, adequate ventilation, and the use of appropriate PPE) are in place then pregnant and breastfeeding women should be able to continue to work safely with photochemical products.Inhalation is the main route by which fumes and gases enter the body, making good ventilation a high priority. Exposure to irritant chemicals that would not affect most people may provoke an asthma attack in a person who already has asthma. For example, low levels of the gas sulphur dioxide can be produced by some ILFORD PHOTO processes. Most individuals would be unaffected but asthmatics may suffer adverse affects. ILFORD PHOTO products include no known human carcinogens, and no substances to which phrase R46 (May cause heritable genetic damage) or R64 (May cause harm to breastfed babies) applies. Most ILFORD PHOTO developers use hydroquinone, and their classification therefore includes R40 (Limited evidence of a carcinogenic effect) and R68 (Possible risk of irreversible effects). Some ILFORD PHOTO chemicals use boric acid or borates. These substances are classified as toxic for reproduction. As a result, the classification of some of the powder developers includes R60 (May impair fertility) and R61 (May cause harm to the unborn child).

Have you always fancied learning to crochet but never found the time or struggled with online tutorials? Our classes are friendly, relaxed and the perfect place to learn. Tea, coffee and biscuits are always included and BYOB is also encouraged - we’ll supply the glasses! Come along and enjoy the basics of crochet in this beginner course delivered over 5 sessions. Class number is limited to 6. Week 1 - Skill building. Learn chains, rows, turning and double crochet. Begin your 1st project. Week 2 - Learn slip stitch and weaving ends as you finish your project. Introduction to 2 new stitches. Week 3 - Make a Granny Square! Week 4 - Make some flowers and learn how to follow a pattern Week 5 - More pattern reading skills to make your final project. You will learn the most used stitches plus lots of tips to get you started. You will discover how to make granny squares which are the building blocks of many crochet projects including blankets, bags, clothes, even plant pots! All materials, drinks and nibbles included. £75 for 5 sessions. Payable by bank transfer. Dates : EVENING SESSIONS 4th March, 11th March, 18th March, 25th March, 8th April 6.30pm - 8.30pm DAYTIME SESSIONS 5th March, 12th March, 19th March, 26th March, 9th April 10.30am - 12.30pm Skill level - Complete Beginner Class duration approx 2 hours Please read our terms and conditions before booking.

Do you love books? Do you love the feel of a new book, the smell of the pages, and the way they look on your shelf? But do you wish that you could create your own books? We have just what you need! Our Bookbinding Workshop is a beginner course that will teach you how to make canvas bound book and even a Japanese bound or journal style book too. We provide all of the materials and full instruction is provided by our expert staff.

Jan is not only a world renowned wildlife artist she is also an experienced and enthusiastic teacher. She has her own method of creating the bronze sculptures which have sold all over the world but also has the flexibility to help you develop your own signature methods and style. You want to make a sculpture. There is an artist inside you. You have the idea and you have the creative urge.

Design and make a pair of Sterling silver earrings, learn how to make different textures and pattern, how to cut unique shapes and styles.

Learn Life Drawing for Beginners Workshop Saturday 29th June- 10:45-14:30 - Friends Meeting House, Manchester Welcome to our upcoming life drawing workshop for beginners. This is an opportunity for beginner artists to come together and learn new techniques and skills in capturing the human form from a live model. Because we believe that life drawing is an essential skill for all artists, whether you're interested in figurative work, portraiture, or any other type of art that involves the human body. During this workshop you will have the chance to practice drawing the human body in a variety of poses and perspective using different techniques. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process, providing helpful tips on anatomy, proportion and composition and individual feedback to help you overcome any challenges you may face, so you can learn to draw the human figure more confidently and competently. We will be working with a professional life model who will hold a series of poses throughout the workshop. These poses will range from short gesture poses to longer, more sustained poses, giving you plenty of opportunities to practice capturing the human form in different positions and angles. All you need to bring is your creativity and enthusiasm to improve your drawing skills, and we will provide all the drawing materials required for this course. Please note that this is a nude drawing workshop, and attendees are to be 18 years or older. We ask that attendees under 18 years of age be accompanied by a responsible adult. This is to ensure that all participants feel comfortable and safe during the workshop. In addition, refreshments including tea, coffee and food can be purchased at the bar, however you are also welcome to bring your own lunch if you wish. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to seeing you at the workshop and can't wait to see the amazing drawings you'll create.

87% of hiring managers believe digital design skills are essential in recruiting creative professionals

Join us for an afternoon in our studio to explore the joys of resin art seascapes.

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