Collection: Short Courses

Curious about what it’s really like to be a working artist? Step behind the scenes of the art world and visit real artists’ studios, going beyond the white walls of galleries and museums, to the places where creativity and experimentation come to life. 

Develop the skills to create larger, more complex forms on the potter’s wheel and expand your throwing techniques. You’ll be introduced to advanced methods such as coiling and sectional throwing, exploring the nuances of working with larger pieces.

Explore the representational, atmospheric, and emotive possibilities of tonal drawing. Working from set ups and life models in the studio, you will learn to perceive and convey lights and darks in your work; adding drama and tension to your drawings.

This course presents a unique approach to understanding and applying colour developed by David over the last 25 years for art and design practitioners and teachers as well as anyone just fascinated by colour. It consists of eight beautifully illustrated lectures complemented by optional practical exercises that progress from mastering colour control in paint through to still-life painting studies. The lectures are given live in class with time allowed for discussion but can also be viewed outside class as video recordings. Students undertake the practical exercises outside class and can submit photos by email for feedback and discussion.

Learn fundamental welding skills and complete small-scale welded steel sculptures. With demonstrations and techniques for using arc and MIG welders and oxyacetylene to cut, shape and bend steel, as well as ways to grind steel and use surface treatments suited to steel.

Learn how to throw pots with a strong architectural form to create objects of simplicity and beauty. Explore the basic structures, movements and techniques of wheelforming in this hands-on course and become proficient on the potter’s wheel.

Immerse yourself in the luminous world of watercolour and explore the expressive potential of the medium, working across landscapes, still life, and the human figure. With demonstrations, hands-on exercises, and discussions, this course encourages you to refine your technique while embracing spontaneity.