Mindful creative workshops: the art of being present in nature

An opportunity for all young people and adults over 16 to escape the hectic nature of daily life and enjoy the focus that detailed observational drawing can offer. 

These creative sessions are guided by local artist Laura Kate. A selection of materials will be provided and participants can choose to create their own piece to take home or simply enjoy trying out different techniques.

This is not about artistic skill, but about the mindful benefits of deep concentration. We particularly welcome anyone who is brand new to the world of sketching and has always seen themselves as ‘hopeless at art’!

Participants are encouraged to visit the the free exhibition Dawn to Dusk: Birds by Jim Moir and the day is inspired by Jim’s deep understanding of the natural world through intense observation. 

Sessions from early morning to twilight will offer different creative and sensory opportunities. The first session is a quiet session and may particularly suit those who find they concentrate best with minimal background sound. During the afternoon and evening sessions there will be a live performance by harpist Elinor Nicholson, with the repertoire selected to reflect the time of day and techniques used.

There are different creative techniques to try throughout the day as follows.

7.30am Watercolour painting and drawing

Participants will begin with quick observational sketches before moving into watercolour painting. We’ll explore techniques such as drawing with watercolour, layering colour, and adding detail using pencils and colouring pencils.

Whilst some of today's sessions will feature live music, this session will be delivered with no ambient sound so those who may prefer a quieter environment are encouraged to book this session. The exhibition will be open exclusively for those attending this session.

9.15 and 11am Drawing technique

A focused drawing session using materials such as sketching pencils, fine liners, and colouring pencils. We’ll explore texture, pattern, shading, and colour to build confidence and skill in observational drawing. This session will include ambient sounds from nature.

The 9.15am session will be starting before the gallery opens to the public so may be particularly enjoyed by those who prefer a quieter environment. The exhibition will be open exclusively for those attending the 9.15am session, prior to public opening at 10am.

1.15 and 3pm Expressive line drawing with inks and watercolour

Using brushes rather than pencils, this workshop focuses on expressive mark-making and fluid brushstrokes. We’ll work with a mix of watercolours and Indian inks to capture the objects in a more abstract and intuitive way. This session will be accompanied with live music by Harpist Elinor Nicholson.

5pm Drawing with scissors!

You will get to apply collage techniques, participants will create experimental interpretations of the still life objects. This playful approach encourages bold shapes, colour, and abstraction and you will be guided in the technique by artist Laura Kate. This session will be accompanied with live music by Harpist Elinor Nicholson

About the artist

Laura-Kate is an illustrator, printmaker, and creative arts practitioner with more than 14 years of experience delivering diverse commissions for clients across the UK. Her practice is rooted in social arts, exploring the connections between people, community, and place - often in relation to historical, cultural, or environmental themes.

Passionate about the role of creativity in empowerment, wellbeing and mental health, Laura-Kate delivers person-centred workshops across a wide range of disciplines, supporting discovery learning and skill development.

Image © Pete Carr