Explore the beauty of Australia’s native flora and fauna while developing foundational painting skills in this engaging one-day workshop. Designed for beginners, this course introduces essential drawing techniques, colour theory, brushwork, and compositional principles through the subject of iconic Australian plants and animals.

Students will complete two paintings: a structured study piece to practice core skills, followed by a refined final artwork that demonstrates improved control, depth, and artistic expression. Emphasis is placed on translating observational skills into confident, creative outcomes, with guidance on simplifying complex forms, building contrast, and creating dynamic compositions.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained practical skills in acrylic painting, a deeper understanding of native Australian subjects, and the confidence to continue exploring painting independently.

Course Outline:

• Work from a photo of a landscape to transfer onto a canvas
• Understanding how to sketch a landscape
• How to mix paint to create all the colours needed
• How to create tones of colours to create a mood and depth into your painting
• Understand when your painting is finished and pleasing to the eye

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand basic drawing structures using simple shapes and forms
• Apply colour mixing and tonal techniques for naturalistic results
• Develop brush skills for textures including leaves, bark, and feathers
• Create depth and strong focal points in a composition
• Complete two acrylic paintings, demonstrating skill progression

What to bring:

All material will be provided.

About the tutor:

'French native, I have studied art for many years in France, London and Australia. I, Valerie, am currently a student at the National Art School in Darlinghurst. So far, I have been teaching at the college SGSCC for nearly 10 years, which has given me the honour to share, care and inspired all ages and different abilities of students. Art is such a healthy way to relax and reset your mind. The more you create the more you get creative – such a wonderful way to balance the daily whistle and blows of life. Come and join me in one of my class to find a new vibe or carry on that creativity you have in you!'

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.