During this two-day workshop weekend you will gain an understanding of different drawing techniques, using pencil, charcoal and chalk, creating a collection of botanical, location and still life drawings on paper.
The workshop runs from 11am-4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Attendance on both days is required. A simple, vegetarian lucnch will be provided on each day.
The weekend is suitable for all levels and is designed to be achievable for all. Materials are provided, but please bring sketchbooks or any other materials you’d like to try working with.
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Day 1
We will begin with a group introduction, where we can share a little bit about who we are and what we are hoping to take away from the weekend workshop. After a little introduction to her own practice and artistic background, Molly will start things off with a short class in using charcoal and chalk so you get comfortable with the materials.
Botanical Drawing: We will then move on to a botanical drawing class, where we will study natural objects from Margate's shores - stones, shells, seaweed and sticks. Here we will explore careful observational drawing and recording.
Still Life Drawing: After a tea break we will move on to a still life class, drawing from pots, flowers, branches and fruit. Here Molly will guide you through some fun and fast exercises to get you going and loosen you up! You will also have a chance to explore abstract marks as well as more considered drawings.
Corners of the home: After a lovely lunch we will have a chance to wander around the beautiful Kindred House and find intriguing spots to draw from. Capturing small moments of the house, from a lovely chair, a beautiful blanket, or anything that captures your eye in any of the rooms.
Charcoal Making: To finish off our day of drawing we will be making our own charcoal! In the garden a fire will be made, and each of us will trim some willow into a little tobacco tin. Then we will put them carefully in the fire and let them burn into the night.
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Day 2
Drawing the sea: Taking inspiration from Turner, who lived and worked in Margate - we will take our drawing boards outside (weather dependent). Looking out to the ocean, we will make quick marks from the waves and landscape on the shore.
Foraging: While out in the elements, we will scour the beach for treasure to draw from! An interesting piece of driftwood, a mermaid's purse, a crab shell - anything that interests you.
Drawing from our findings: Once back inside and after lunch, we will settle down with our found objects and study them like a scientist. We will have a chance to swap around and share our findings.
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Stay with us:
During this retreat weekend, participents are invited to stay and book into an all-inclusive weekend package that includes a two-night B&B stay at Kindred House (Fri 12th & Sat 13th May), along with full access to the weekend workshops.
Kindred House is offered not only as a space to retreat to, but also to connect within as we invite our guests to be active participants in cultivating our community. Our workshops & various events play a key role in the spirit of Kindred House, in crafting an environment that actively inspires & encourages connection, creativity & learning.
Our retreat weekends make a wonderful gift to oneself or a thoughtful offering to a loved one. They provide an ideal opportunity for a weekend getaway in our sanctuary beside the sea, whilst having the opportunity to get creative, learn a new skill & make new friends along the way.
Rooms are limited & tend to get booked quickly so get in touch early to avoid disappointment.
The workshop weekend is limited to 8 places to ensure a more intimate experience. If dates need to change due to Covid or otherwise, you’ll be able to swap to the new date or obtain a refund if you’re unable to make the new date. Otherwise tickets are non-refundable.
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About your teacher: Molly Martin
Molly Martin is an artist and illustrator based in London. Growing up in the English countryside, Molly has always been drawn to nature and capturing its transient beauty within her drawings. Her work looks at negative space with a considered line and a delicate approach. With a tendency to draw directly from life as well as imagination, she is a skilled observer; capturing both motion and stillness within her work.