One of North Yorkshire’s most beautiful country houses is hosting a series of art courses this year.
The historic Newburgh Priory in Coxwold is hosting one-day retreats tutored by award-winning Yorkshire artist Patrick Smith.
Alice Wombwell of Newburgh Priory, who is a talented artist herself, said: “We are incredibly excited about our Art Retreats programme this year.
“Patrick is a superb tutor and the wide range of subjects we have chosen should appeal to artists of all ages and skills.
“During our one-day art courses, you’ll learn under Patrick’s expert guidance. Courses will be either inside the house, or outside, depending on the nature of the subject.
“It is important to stress that artists of all abilities, including novices, are welcome.”
The next course, on Tuesday 16 April, is Painting Seascapes. This course will explain how to portray convincing wave structures and how the play of light is so essential for tonal perspective.
Then, on Thursday 23 May, there will be a Walking With Rembrandt etching course, which will be held in a semi-industrial printmaking studio environment, using traditional oil-based ink. A small still life set will be available, from which for course members can draw or get ideas for their etchings.
On Thursday 27 June the Abstract Painting course will examine the birth of modernism in painting and explore how visual artists moved away from representational painting to complete freedom of expression and imaginative use of media.
The final summer course is En Plein Air, a residential course on Sunday 7 July and Monday 8 July.
Over two days, course members will learn how to draw and paint the stunning surrounding landscape of Newburgh Priory and enjoy a morning of life drawing.
Alice is also organising another of her Art for Self Esteem workshops, aimed at children.
“I am passionate about the idea that in order to thrive academically, it is important to have the vital building blocks of confidence and self-esteem.
“Never has this been more important than in today’s society where children are under pressures and influences that we, as parents, never had to face. I strongly believe that art, and more specifically these workshops, can help contribute to a child’s self-esteem and continuing development.”
More details about all these courses are available on the Newburgh Priory website.