Art Classes & Courses
Nature Diaries
If you would like to book more than one date then just email us on info@wildwoodartsdartmoor.co.uk or call us on 07718386580
In a nutshell
Edith Holden’s books, ‘Nature Diaries of an Edwardian Lady’ and ‘Nature Notes’ were the inspiration for this workshop.
Are you familiar with Edith Holden’s Nature Diaries? Did you know she wrote Nature Notes from this part of Dartmoor?
We will aim to produce, in your own style, nature diaries. We will even visit some of Edith Holden’s favourite places from the times that she holidayed right here on Dartmoor.
Do you love nature, but wish that you knew the names of plants and animals or could identify birds? Do you wish you knew some of the folk-law and legends or history about them? You will learn all that and more on this workshop. If you love nature, art and writing this is for you!
This workshop is a wonderful mix of mindfulness, meditation, art and writing and learning about nature with other like-minded people.
Walk and let your senses take in the beauty of Dartmoor. Record what we experience and sketch if the weather permits or back to the gallery to record our observations.
- Ability: All
- Minimum 3. Maximum class size: 5 NB: If the numbers of students is below 3 ten the workshop will be cancelled and you will recieve a full refund.
- Mediums: All-drawing:charcoal, pencils, watercolour, pastels, gouache, oils, inks, acrylics
- Subjects: Nature, identification, writing, art, research, creativity, publication.
- Aim: for student to find their own style of journaling nature. To learn about nature, be able to correctly identify plants & wildlife and have fun whilst learning about and enjoying nature. How to research and write descriptively.
- Objective: connecting with nature, building confidence as an artist and writer.
- Price: £135 per day. 5% discount for six months 10% discount for yearly just ask us.
Who is it suitable for?
From complete beginners to intermediates.
As the group is small this allows me to work one-to-one with each student. Although it will involve some walking, those who find walking difficult will be accommodated as much as possible. Just let me know beforehand please.
If the writing aspect makes you nervous, or perhaps the art side of things is scary to you, then please don’t worry as I will adapt your diary so that it plays to your strengths and I have some short cuts for those who feel they can’t write or draw.
What is the Aim of the Workshop?
To see and absorb nature as an artist and a writer. To be able to correctly identify and record the flora and fauna you find. Learn how to write, sketch, photograph and video nature.
We will look at composition in visual and written forms. Learn descriptive writing techniques, research methods, drawing and painting, digital production, recording and publishing. The main aim however, is to inspire you to get out into nature, enjoy nature and get to know it a whole lot better.
Depending on the weather, we will either walk from the gallery or drive to a spot nearby Dartmoor. All of Holden’s walks are within a 5-10 min drive from the gallery. The walks are generally about 30-45 mins long, but for those who would find that difficult you can do as much as you feel comfortable with.
After recording our findings, we will head back to the gallery to discuss our walks, compare it to Holden’s findings and research what we have discovered and complete our nature diaries.You will use the sketches, photographs and things we have found along the way, to create drawings in pencil, coloured pencils, inks, watercolours or acrylics.
A one day workshop will set you on your way to keeping a diary and you can come along each month or whenever it is suitable for you. It is best to do it monthly but is not a necessity.
A list of equipment required and location details will be sent to you upon booking and confirmation of your place. Got more questions? Just give me a call or e-mail.
Book Now
If you would like to book more than one date then just email us at info@wildwoodartsdartmoor.co.uk or call us on 0771 838 6580
FAQs
How many people will be on the course?
Up to five people.
What do I need to bring?
You may like to bring your own packed lunch.
What do I do for lunch?
You may like to bring your own packed lunch which you can eat in the gallery, or there is a local park by the river at the end of the road.
There is a convienence store and a bakery in the village where refreshments or lunch can be purchased.
Alternatively, there are two lovely country pubs in the village, with gardens, should the weather permit and both are within walking distance of the gallery- but we would suggest you book in advance.
Is it okay to be a total beginner?
Most of the workshops and classes are suitable for ALL abilities.
Where courses are aimed for the more experienced this will be highlighted.
If you have any concerns and need reassurance just get in touch and Cheri will advise you.
How do I book?
You can book here on line at the top of the page or call us on 01822 258529 or 07718386580
We take card payments over the phone or by BACs. We accept most cards apart from American Express.
You could also send a cheque made payable to Cheri Hunston.
Can I reserve a place?
We will hold a provisional reservation for 24 hours if you give us a call or e-mail us. Otherwise please book online or by telephone..
You can reserve a place with a £100 deposit; the balance is due 12 weeks before course start date.
Where do I park?
Early birds can park directly in front of the gallery where there are up to three spaces on the road. Other parking is wherever you find it on the road.
If you are staying or eating at either of the two village pubs- just let them know and you can use their car parks.
How do I find you?
The nearest train station is Plymouth, which is 14 miles away. Wildwood is a 5 minute walk from the bus routes from Plymouth and Tavistock.
The bus stop is by Manor Garage at Horrabridge on the A386.
The buses are the no 1, 55, 56, X1 and are generally every 15 minutes.
Taxis are available from Tavistock town centre by the church and from Plymouth city centre or the Train station .
The nearest airport is Exeter Airport.
You can view maps HERE
View more about our location HERE
Where can I stay?
The Leaping Salmon have lovely rooms available with parking and is a short walk to the gallery
Copper Moor Holiday Cottage is a short stroll away
The Overcombe Hotel is a ten minute walk away
There are a number of Air B&Bs
What's the surrounding area like?
Beautiful! We are in a National Park.
From the wild Tors and Dartmoor ponies, to river walks, nature reserves, world heritage sites and local markets. There's lots to see and do here.
You can see more about our location HERE
What are the Terms and Conditions ?
Terms and Conditions can be found here
