For further information, directions to the hall, a suggested kit list,

 

or to book a workshop,  please ring

 

Graham W. Fleet  Tel:- 01404   811040

 

 

Frequently asked questions

I have never painted before, or not since school, is it still possible for me to learn to paint?  Yes it is. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people to learn to paint even though they didn’t think they had any special artistic talent.  If you can hold a brush I can teach you to paint attractive watercolours, and on your first day you will produce a finished painting.  It may not be a major work of art but should be good enough to convince you that this is a craft that you can learn with time and practice, and of course with the right tuition.

 I have done a little painting but would like a refresher, are your workshops suitable for this?  Yes very much so. Sometimes painters can become a little stale, or feel that something is lacking from their work. My workshops can provide new ideas and motivation and should help you to get back on track and to enjoy your painting again.

 

Can I book a single workshop? Yes you can book a single workshop to suit your own interests, or to fit in with your other commitments. I suggest that new students book a single workshop to start with. 

 

Do I need to book in advance or can I just turn up for the workshop?

It is essential to book in advance as a workshop may reach the maximum number that can be accommodated.

 

When do I have to pay?  Payment is due by cheque or in cash when you arrive for the workshop, regrettably we cannot accommodate credit or debit card payments.

 

What if I have to cancel a booking? If you have to cancel a booking, normally no cancellation fee is charged, so long as you advise me beforehand. We would ask that you give as much notice as you can.

 What equipment will I need? Ask for my suggested kit list that details the basic painting kit needed. This is available by post or email. Then if you still have any queries please phone.

 Do I need an easel? No, watercolour and easels do not sit well together due to the difficulty of controlling wet paint on a vertical or steeply sloping surface.  I normally paint with my paper flat on a table.

 How do I find the hall? If you are not familiar with the local area, please ask for my “How to Find It” leaflet, which shows how to reach the hall from various directions. This is available by post or email.

Is there any age limit for the workshops?  There is a minimum age of 18 years but no upper age limit.  Many of my students take up painting in later life, often after retirement, and I have taught many folk of both sexes, who were well over the normal retirement age.

I have a physical disability, is this likely to cause problems?

Please discuss with me anything that you think may need special attention, and we will do our best to fit you in.  I have taught many lovely people with all sorts of disabilities, including folk in wheelchairs etc., and will always try to help.  But at West Hill Village Hall we are on the first floor so it is essential that students can negotiate a flight of stairs.

I understand that there are various styles of painting. How do you feel about this?  Different people interpret what they see in different and sometimes unusual and interesting ways and this is good.  Even after many years I am still experimenting and learning, and this is part of the fun.  There is a natural tendency for students to follow my style of painting when I am demonstrating during the workshops, but I am always delighted when students develop their own ideas.  In my experience people learn best in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, so I try to make the sessions as light-hearted as possible and people are encouraged to experiment and develop their own styles and ideas. Painting should be enjoyable and different styles of painting can certainly add to the enjoyment.

How are students graded? There is no system of marking or grading of students. The group will always contain various levels of experience including some beginners, and everyone works at their own pace. I make sure that nobody is left behind when we are painting pictures together, and that everyone gets plenty of hints and tips to help their progress. 

 

About the Artist.  Graham W. Fleet has been painting in various media for many years and has exhibited in many locations. His paintings are in many private collections in this country and abroad.  Since moving to Devon some years ago he has conducted a number of very successful watercolour painting courses and workshops in various parts of the county.  Now resident in West Hill he is enjoying providing practical help and guidance to artists and budding artists in this lovely area.