On the subject of painting little houses …
Some years ago I came across some tiny little canvases in a shop, that came with a little wooden easel, and at only 9cm by 7cm they were a great size for an ‘easy’ project. I live in a fabulous, small rural community and sneakily took photos of a couple of the neighbouring houses and then had myself a lovely little painting session to paint these houses on the little canvases. They came out quite well, the neighbours loved them, and that was the start of the little houses workshop idea.
Fast forward a few years and having done a few more of these little houses for family and friends, I’m now encouraging others to paint their homes on these little canvases. Why are they so good? For a start, the small size means it’s not a huge task to fill it with colour. It doesn’t require a space on the wall. It’s a bit different. They make brilliant gifts for birthdays, weddings, Christmas, new homes, etc. Plus, when given as a gift, the receiver doesn’t have to make much room for it and they’ll never believe that you painted that, because it’s just brilliant!
So how does it all work on the workshop? Once you’ve booked your place I will ask you to send me some photos of your home. When taking photographs, think about what’s the best angle to take - face on, or a bit side on? Do you love the back of your house, the side or the front? Have a bit of sky above and a bit of garden or frontage and take your photos on a bright day if you can. Once I receive them I’ll crop them to suit the canvas if necessary, then I’ll line draw your canvas so it’s all ready for you on the day.
On the day you will arrive to a warm welcome as I will be so pleased to meet you and I love to inspire people to discover their artistic talents, even if they think they have none! You’ll have your own little workstation with palette, paints, brushes, a stand with your photo reference, water, test paper and, of course, your canvas. I’ll show you the basics of colour mixing and if you don’t like the colour, or you want to change something, once the paint is dry you can paint over the top so mistakes are easily rectified. Once the basics of your house are in place you can have some artistic fun if you wish. Want a sunny day? Paint a blue sky. Want flowers in the garden? Paint some in. Hanging baskets? No problem! These are tiny canvases and so flowers are simply tiny dots of colour. Want the neighbours cut out? No problem, I can pop in a tree!
I so often hear the words ‘I can’t draw’, ‘I’m not artistic’, I could never do that!’ And you can. The workshop is fun and relaxed and a positive space. You’re painting your own project so there’s no comparing what you’ve done with what someone else has done, there’s no competition. This is your painting, your way.
We will stop halfway through for some lovely Black Lion refreshments and you can always make more of your ‘you’ day by staying for lunch afterwards. The Black Lion is known for its superb food.
I often see a group of slightly nervous people arrive that soon relax, become absorbed in their painting, the chat flows, friendships are made and they leave with a painting to be proud of … and I love it!
I hope to meet you on Saturday 21st February, 9-1 at The Black Lion, Long Melford x
What others have said …
“I had a fab afternoon, I really, really enjoyed it!”
“A wonderful workshop run by a patient and encouraging lady”
“I loved Ginny’s little house workshop! She is a super teacher and it was a fab way to relax for a few hours”
