About the course

This course is aimed at anyone looking to begin or practice painting in watercolours.

We’ll look at ways to produce quick observational drawings of buildings, landscapes and people and develop those into watercolour paintings. You’ll soon find yourself looking at things in new ways and starting to develop a style of your own.

Since painting requires hand-eye coordination, it improves the connection between your brain's left and right hemispheres. The more you practice, the more they get connected - as a result, your concentration and coordination should improve.

Of course, being in the open air with plenty of time to work can be very relaxing - many previous course members have remarked how time seems to vanish!

Weather permitting, we'll be working outdoors, in and around the village of Monflanquin. Most weeks there will be a short practical demonstration, followed by plenty of time to work at your own pace with as much help and guidance as you would like. There’s so much of interest hidden round every corner of the ancient streets of Monflanquin, there's always something to inspire you.

Over the previous nine years many people have found my art courses helpful, relaxed and fun.

We'll practice drawing from life using pen or pencil then add more life and colour using watercolours.

I'll help you with techniques for getting proportions right, shading, detail and perspective.

You’ll learn to sketch a variety of subjects around the village.

The main language will be English, but if you can forgive my French, I would welcome any French speakers.

A few photos of previous classes:

Times and dates

The course will run on six Wednesday afternoons from 13:30 to 16:30, starting on Wednesday 13th May 2026 and finishing on Wednesday 17th June 2026.

Materials

If you already have watercolour paints and brushes you wish to use, please feel free to bring those instead

Everything you need is ncluded in the cost:

  • A sheet of quality watercolour paper per week
  • A selection of brushes, pencils, pens etc
  • A basic range of watercolour paints available to use each week
  • Drawing boards and tape
  • Tables, chairs etc
  • Refreshments (tea / coffee / water)

I'll send a list of recommended materials (and suppliers) once your place on the course has been confirmed, should you wish to purchase your own materials.

Venue & cost

The venue will be Galerie JS in the heart of Monflanquin. We'll be using the gallery as a base.  There is ample free parking within a short walking distance.

To provide a high level of personal attention, the number of places is limited to 8 people.

The cost of the six week course is 130€ per person, payable at the first session and includes all tuition, materials and refreshments. We accept cash, cheques and most payment cards.

To reserve a place (or request more information)

Please complete the form below (if you have any problems with the form, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)

Please note that sending an email doesn’t guarantee a place. I will reply as soon possible to confirm. Places are allocated on a 'first come, first served" basis. To be viable, the course needs a minimum of 4 people. In the event that there are more requests than places, I’ll keep a waiting list.

All details above are accurate at the time of writing (April 2026), but are subject to change.

Would you like to buy this as a gift for someone? Let me know in the 'Message' field below and I'll send you a payment link and a personalised gift certificate in the recipient's name.

Art Course Enquiry / Booking

Please choose your option below and I'll reply as soon as possible.

Please note, this course is now fully booked, but if you would like to be added to a waiting list, please complete this form.