Exploring human connection through drawing

The act of drawing is one of our most ancient and universal forms of communication and expression. My workshops combine drawing with an inquiry into relationship. Together we celebrate how each of us is inherently creative and has a unique style and approach to making art. We notice relationships within nature, and through our work may begin to see how we might relate as individuals to others and the world around us.

How do we approach our work? What patterns can occur and what happens if we try something different? Opening to new possibilities and externalising our ideas and actions can bring new energies to play. Using natural form as inspiration, we will work with simple drawing exercises that illustrate ideas of information, perception and our unique approach to experiencing the world - at times drawing influence from philosophy and Eastern thought and artistic techniques.

Participants will use and experiment with a variety of materials including natural inks, charcoal, graphite and Chinese brush. No previous artistic experience is necessary.

‘In almost no time I was seduced into the magic of the paper and Chinese brushes and the possibility of ‘not trying to draw’ but allowing the charcoal to take the lead. The process was extraordinary. Helen’s teaching style is so refined – like an osteopath working with words and ink and feeling instead of muscles and bones.’

- Participant, Summer workshop, Wiltshire

View my Personal Gallery on helengarrett.com

Workshops active or coming up

Creative Journeys through Natural Form

As Part of Drawing into Life – Art Classes with Helen Garrett

Starting 30th June – 21st July
Fridays 10am -12.45pm

[extending previous course with a week’s break]

During this course we will celebrate how each of us is inherently creative and has a unique style and approach to making art. Using natural form as inspiration we will create a space for curiosity and wonder together. We will bring our attention to the intricate patterns and rhythms of the natural world and strengthen our own sense of connection and belonging.

Rooted in the geology and landscape of our unique West Dorset, our six-week course will draw from many aspects of natural form and our surrounding area. Participants will be able to experiment with a variety of materials including Chinese brush, ink, raw pigments, charcoal, and acrylic inks and printing from clay. Currently running as a series, many participants choose to continue throughout the year so there is always a sense of warmth and welcome within the group. No previous artistic experience is necessary.

Venue: Beach and Barnicott, 6 South St, Bridport. Dorset DT6 3NQ

Contact: info@helengarrett.org / mobile 07792916550 to book your place.

Creative Journeys through Natural Form

As Part of Drawing into Life – Art Classes with Helen Garrett

Starting 5th May – 16th June

Fridays 10am - 12.45pm

Rooted in the geology and landscape of our unique West Dorset, our six-week course will draw from many aspects of natural form and our surrounding area. Participants will be able to experiment with a variety of materials including Chinese brush, ink, raw pigments, charcoal, and acrylic inks - we will even make our own paintbrushes! Running as a series of six-week blocks. Many participants choose to continue throughout the year so there is always a sense of warmth and welcome within the group. No previous artistic experience is necessary.

Some of the work in the current session …