We will study the work of Australian painters like Tom Roberts, Clarice Beckett, Arthur Streeton, Margaret Preston, John Brack, Jeffrey Smart and Grace Cossington Smith, who were all exciting painters with very individual styles. In addition, painters like Derain, Bonnard, Deibenkorn and Hopper will provide inspiration – and suggestions from students are very welcome. We will break down the process into steps, learning about underpainting, sketching, composition, palette (choice of colour), tonal contrast, layering, the use of different brushes for various purposes, correcting or changing elements, making decisions, and final details. Along the way, students will find they have more confidence in the painting process as they develop adaptability and skill. Alex is happy to act in a consultant role, if students wish to pursue their own projects.

Concession: $217.50
(pensioners/full time students)

Sketchbook, around A4 size, preferably made with paper of 180gsm or more (With or without prepared backgrounds*)with a firm drawing support and clips HB pencil and eraser Fineliner pigment pen 0.4 or 0.5 size Coloured media of your choice Posca pens, if using prepared backgrounds (Suggested colours: white, dark grey, light blue, brown, light orange) Folding stool Hat, water etc *Prepared backgrounds: these can be ink, gouache or acrylic paint. Any colours of your choice, but best if there is a range of tones, with some areas of white left untouched. Also work best if there is a little bit of neutral colour in the mix, eg grey.

Concession: $90
(pensioners/full time students)

Spend a relaxing day creating a custom-made A4 sketchbook and drawing in a shady, English-inspired garden with Alex Snellgrove. Located an easy ten-minute walk from Blackheath station, ‘Milleewa’ is a lovely old house with plenty of space to spend time making your individual sketchbook, enjoy a light lunch, and then sketch to your heart’s content. 

Why not make a weekend of it with some of your friends? There is plenty of local accommodation available in Blackheath.


Date: Sunday, March 24
Hours: 10am - 4pm
Limit of 8 participants.

Materials for sketchbooks supplied.
Drawing materials supplied by participants.

per person