My lessons are based around individual needs but also include exercises to stretch and challenge. Instruction in watercolours, acrylics, oils and pastels also drawing in graphite, graphite powder, charcoal, charcoal powder, ink and conte. Printmaking instruction including using a flat bed press including monoprints as well as silk screen printing, in particular photographic silk screen printing. How to make up your own silk screens and use a dark room for exposing screens and for making cyanotypes. Instruction in working with collage and combining different materials together in a creative way. Learning how to use a sketchbook is essential in gathering inspiration, writing notes and practising ideas. Emphasis is based around understanding how artists work and think, with specific links to a wide variety of artists. Looking at different styles of work helps in creating your own style. Confidence is gained through practice and experimenting. Learning how to play with materials is key to developing skills whether it be trying to loosen up mark making and brush work or combining different materials together. In my own work I layer different colours and tones together then adjust them until I know I’ve got it right. Making mistakes is part of the process and helps you achieve a better result. Creating art works takes practice but having a helping hand along the way when things don’t always work out can make all the difference!