Painting / Drawing Courses

The painting / drawing courses will be given by Jason Stalman.

I began studying art at Bangor college in north Wales and went on to do a degree in fine art / illustration at Harrow in London. This course was very experimental and encouraged me to see that art can take many forms and is about self expression. I mention this as I have found myself enjoying drawing, painting and sculpting.

After my degree, I studied for an M.A. in stop-motion animation at the Royal College of Art in London. I found in animation the freedom to write stories, build sets, paint landscapes, design characters and animate them. An amazing medium; you can do everything and anything.

This led on to an independent commission from Channel 4 to make a short film. Since then I have worked for various puppet making companies and as an animator, on children's TV programmes, 'The Koala Brothers' and 'Rupert the Bear' for example and also on films such as Tim Burton's `Corpse Bride´ and Wes Anderson's Fantastic Mr Fox´.
But now I have chosen to return to painting and drawing.

I wanted to create an art course that allows people and encourages them to express themselves through drawing and painting. It is open to anyone from the complete beginner to the more experienced artist. You are free to choose any medium to work with, from pencil or charcoal, chalk or oil pastels through to watercolours and acrylics, even to combine them. There will be as much tuition and guidance as you require.

To begin with, we can try some studio based work, setting up a still life together and start with the basics of composition, drawing and observation. Or, if you prefer, you may begin painting and using colour immediately. This will help us discuss your personal needs and maybe what you hope to achieve.
There is a wonderful wild garden and views all around the house, so you are free to set yourself up and begin working outside if you want to.
Because we are located on the edge of a national park, we are lucky to have the most incredible and stunning countryside right on our doorstep. It is fantastic for anyone interested in landscape art.
It's easy to walk from the house and find superb locations. The famous Montserrat Mountain is only a short 10 minute drive away and is an inspiring sight and a challenge to the artist. It reflects the sun, changes colour and even shape dramatically and constantly throughout the day. A fascinating subject to anyone interested in how light behaves. Part of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrim route, there is a monastery which is worth visiting while you are here, even just for the views from the top which can be breathtaking.
We supply basic materials such as paper, pencils, watercolour pans, acrylics and easels. If you have a particular medium you wish to explore or work with, or a favourite brush or palette, please bring them along. A sketch book is always a useful tool; it's handy for taking notes, making quick studies in and can be a great reference for future work.
Also, please consider a good sun hat and a decent pair of walking shoes.