This practical workshop invites you to explore some traditional and more experimental watercolour techniques, looking at a brief history of watercolour and how artists from the Tate Collection have used the material. Techniques learnt will then be applied to your own larger scale artworks. Over the course of the workshop, you will build up the introductory skills and techniques needed to get you started making your own masterpieces.
Examples of Technique: Wet in wet, wash/graded, wash/variegated, wash, bleeding, negative painting and salt and wax resistance.
The sketching session includes materials to take home with you, including a set of Winsor & Newton: John Singer Sargent Watercolours, produced in collaboration with Tate.
(15 mins) - A brief introduction to Tate and an introduction to the workshop and what it will entail, with a brief history of watercolour.
(50 mins): Part One - An introduction to practical example: In this part of the workshop, you will learn 10 different watercolour techniques following examples through hands-on exercises. Examples include wet on dry, wet in wet, wash/graded wash/variegated wash, bleeding, negative painting, palette Knife, fading Out, salt, rubbing alcohol and wax resistance.
(15 mins) Tea Break
(30 mins): Part Two – Watercolourist examples: After learning the above techniques see artists within the Tate Collection and ways artists have used this material.
(50 mins): Part Three - Final Piece: Use learnt techniques and knowledge to make an inspired finished piece. Individual tips and any questions that you might have during the process will be answered.
(20 mins): Exhibition - View completed works, discuss the making process and how similar techniques were used differently by members of the group.
Tate Britain's step-free entrance is on Atterbury Street. It has automatic sliding doors and there is a ramp down to the entrance with central handrails.
There is a lift between the Lower and Main floors. Alternatively you can take the stairs.
- Accessible and standard toilets are located on the Lower floor.
- A Changing Places toilet is not currently available.
- Ear defenders can be borrowed from the ticket desk on the Lower floor.
To help plan your visit to Tate Britain, have a look at our visual story. It includes photographs and information about what you can expect from a visit to the gallery.
For more information before your visit:
Email hello@tate.org.uk
Call +44 (0)20 7887 8888 (daily 10.00–17.00)
