Using Gwavas House as our base, we will explore the unspoilt character and rich artistic history of Newlyn, gaining inspiration from the local culture, scenery, and maritime heritage. Timeless alleyways and narrow cobbled streets offer a glimpse into Cornwall’s past while the old lighthouse still watches over a harbour filled with colourful boats for us to capture in paint.
Book together with ‘Exploring Mousehole en plein air’ for a 20% discount!
Newlyn harbour and old quay
Sandy Cove morning
Focusing on sketching and plein air painting techniques, we will create artworks outdoors in natural light. This method allows artists to capture the nuances of light, colour and atmosphere directly from the environment.
Newlyn’s character provides rich inspiration for artists. The village holds a significant place in the history of British art, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was home to the Newlyn School of Artists, a group of painters who were known for their plein air style and depiction of everyday life. This course will include visits to relevant historical sites and discussions about the Newlyn School's influence on art.
We can use Gwavas House, Newlyn to continue our studies in the covered yard and net loft studio as and when required.
Newlyn’s forgotten village
COURSE FEES
£295 per person
Fee includes 3 days of full tuition with examples, demonstrations and one-to-one guidance and feedback as you progress.
What to Expect:
Expert Guidance: Vicki Norman is an accomplished artist known for her expertise in plein air painting. Her instruction provides valuable insights into drawing, colour theory, composition, and more. Participants can benefit from her extensive experience and personalized feedback.
Skills and Techniques: Through hands-on practice and individualized instruction, participants can expect to see improvements in their plein air painting skills. You may learn to observe and interpret local scenes, make design and colour choices, and handle the challenges of outdoor painting.
Individual Feedback: The class size is kept small to ensure that each participant receives personalized guidance and feedback tailored to their skill level and artistic goals.
Group Critiques: Group critiques are a useful part of the course. They provide an opportunity for participants to share their work, receive constructive criticism, and learn from each other's perspectives.
Community and Network: The course provides an excellent opportunity for participants to connect with fellow artists, share experiences, and potentially form lasting creative connections.
Who Should Attend?
This course is suitable for artists of all levels, from beginners looking to establish a strong foundation in still life painting, to more experienced artists seeking to refine their skills and expand their creative horizons. Vicki's teaching approach is tailored to meet individual needs and nurture creativity in everyone.
Materials:
A list of recommended materials will be provided after registration, ensuring that participants come prepared to make the most of their experience.
Gwavas House:
Nestled on the edge of Mount’s Bay, Gwavas House is an old fisherman’s dwelling and workplace comprising 5 granite cottages and a net loft which surround a covered courtyard or ‘linhay’. Oozing with character in every corner, the history of the house is etched into the fabric of the building and its layout. From 1880 onwards it was used by artists of the Newlyn School for lodgings, the net loft was used as a temporary studio for painters when they first arrived in Newlyn. Thomas Cooper Gotch, Walter Langley and Stanhope Forbes all painted at Gwavas House before moving into their own studios elsewhere in the village.
Mark and Vicki are delighted to have become the owners and custodians of 3 of these cottages, which they are carefully preserving and restoring, along with the net loft and linhay.
The hillside garden above the house gives stunning views over the rooftop to St Michael’s Mount. Its idyllic setting offers an abundance of inspiration for both indoor and outdoor painting with views of Mount’s Bay from every window in the house.
Accommodation:
We have 2 cottages with sea views and parking available at Gwavas House for guests to rent.
Please get in touch to enquire about availability.
The Nook has one double bedroom with ensuite shower room, a fully equipped kitchen/dining/living room and a patio with views across Mount’s Bay.
The Annexe has one double bedroom and one twin bedroom with a shared shower room, it has a kitchen/dining/living room and patio with views across Mount’s Bay.
Newlyn offers a broad range of Air BnB cottages and apartments in the village. There are hotels within a mile of Gwavas House in Mousehole or Penzance. And a campsite in Paul or one at Longrock.
Food:
There will be an option to join the group for one or two evening meals during the course at local pubs and restaurants. Tea and coffee will be available at Gwavas House whenever we are there. Participants should make their own arrangements for all other meals.
Book together with ‘Exploring Mousehole en plein air’ for a 20% discount!