Exploring Acrylic Techniques: a 4-session painting course with Stephen Jenkinson

For Abstracts; Semi-Abstracts and Impressionist Landscapes

The 4 weekly sessions on this course are very practical and follow the same pattern: short, instructive demonstrations of a number of techniques, after which everyone has plenty of time to practise and develop their understanding of these techniques. This is a small group course, so you get plenty of individual attention along with practical advice and helpful tips, as you go, with pauses to discuss your work in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Every session, you’ll see results you can be proud of. During the course we will cover:

· First choices: acrylic paints, equipment and materials. Applying a gesso base and using pure colours to create the first simple layered glazes.

· Further techniques: how layers of colour interact - limiting your colour palette. Using spraying and combing techniques to produce a range of striking effects, detail and patterns.

· Masking your colour layers and employing original off-set stencils to further develop your composition, adding depth, textures and subtle images.

· The composition and dynamics of your paintings. Finishing: selecting and enhancing your images – using varnishes to display them to best effect. Issues of mounting & framing.

Comments from previous students include ”fun”, “well presented”, “insightful”, “liberating”, really enjoyable and informative” “great money-saving tips” and “life-changing”…!

4 Friday sessions each of 3.5 hours from 10:30 – 14:00; on 20 & 27 Feb, 6 & 13 March 2026

£100 per course plus £10 for materials to the tutor on the first day.

All materials & equipment provided. Please bring an apron or wear old clothes!

To book, please ring: 01460 54973 or email: workshops@ilminsterarts.org.uk leaving your phone number.