WEA courses

In this course, we will discuss in detail works from lesser-known painters of the Renaissance era. Since the High Renaissance is much better known, we will look at artists from the fifteenth century, who were very highly thought of at the time. They were influential and sought-after by the powerful in Florence.

Over the last twenty years, research and exhibitions have brought to our attention a great number of Victorian women artists. From Emily Mary Osborn and Lady Butler (aka Elizabeth Thompson) to Evelyn De Morgan, 19th century London did not lack great women artists. They lived in a society that globally remained hostile to independent career women. We will see how they trained, what they painted and his which style, and how they balanced the pressure of social norms and their personal ambition.

In this course we will explore some of the developments in modern 20th century sculpture through the work of a selection of women sculptors. These sessions will seek to evaluate and contrast the work of these female artists against the backdrop of the events and movements in art, and the prevailing thinking about sculpture over the last 100 years which previously had been dominated by male artists. There are no requirements from students prior to the beginning of the course. Students would benefit from access to online sources during the course. Papers and images will be made available to students through the WEA Canvas site. You will need to have access to the internet to access the papers for this course. The course uses a secure digital learning portal for all the classes and for communications with the tutor and access to learning materials. The course would be appropriate for both experienced viewers of art and those new to the subject.

Explore Abstract Expressionism and it's place in mid-century American art. An introduction to the history and artists and a practical exploration of their work within your own art practice.

Are you looking for a relaxing hobby to help you unwind? Creating moments of calm in the day is essential for our emotional well-being and mental health. Step into the world of mindful crafts with this course and enjoy art for relaxation. This creativity course allows you to explore your art skills to find practices that soothe you. This creative painting course can help you find a relaxing hobby.

This drawing course is for beginners who wish to find out about the basic skills of drawing. The course content will cover a range of drawing techniques whilst investigating the qualities of the drawing materials. You will learn about expressive mark-making, quick timed sketching, contour drawing, tonal drawing whilst recording from primary and secondary resources. You will be discovering the importance of line, tone, cross hatching, shape, pattern, and texture and how to scale up using a grid system. You will be using a variety of media which will include, pencils, fine liners, chalk, and charcoal pencils.

This 5 week course offers a unique exploration of British history by examining the lives and contributions of five remarkable women who left indelible marks on society, culture, and politics. From ancient warriors to pioneering scientists and influential writers, each woman represents a distinct era in British history, shedding light on the struggles, achievements, and societal changes of their times. Throughout the course, we will delve into the lives of these extraordinary women, analysing their impact on British society and their enduring legacies. By studying their stories, learners will gain a deeper understanding of key historical events, social movements, and cultural shifts that have shaped the fabric of Britain.

If there is such a thing, at any time the “national mood” in any country is reflected in the cultural products of the period - visual works, theatre productions, the movies, the literature. The course will provide an overview of the decade from the artistic and cultural viewpoint. This will include the art movements which emerged such as Abstract Expressionism, exemplified by people like Jackson Pollock, music developments such as rock'n'roll famously promoted by Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry and many others and epoch-making movies such as West Side Story.

This Art for ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course is a 4-week watercolour painting course for anyone wanting to learn or improve their painting skills. You will learn how to draw and paint within a group of like-minded people. Guidance and support are offered throughout the course from our talented tutor, to develop your artistic skills. You will also have the opportunity to connect with and support others in a friendly classroom environment and improve your English conversational skills. No previous skills in watercolours are needed to join this group.

This course is the first half of a two term look at British history from 1945 to 1990. Over the first six weeks we will think to what extent there was a post-war consensus and why it was coming under increasing pressure through the 1970s. We will look thematically at four key areas: politics; the economy; Britain’s place in the world and social change. We will take a non-partisan, objective look at the issues of a challenging era as Britain moved from being an independent ‘Great Power’ to reluctant member of the Common Market. Alongside significant changes we will discuss the continuities in British life during the three decades from 1945.