Schedule for the Weekend:

Please note, this is subject to change - but the schedule shown below is exactly what we did in our previous trip to Lower Slaughter, so expect a very similar idea (though, of course, with some twists and surprises)

Friday:

  • Colin and I will be in Bourton, sketching from around 17:00, before heading to 'The Old New Inn' with whoever wishes to join us.

Saturday:

  • 08:00 - Optional coffee at Lower Slaughter Village Hall, proper coffee as well as teas will be provided (free!)

  • 09:00 - Introduction and ice breaker exercises, followed by a couple of exercises looking at the fascinating colours and textures found in Cotswold stone and the beautiful rural landscapes around us.

  • 12:30-13:30 - Lunch break (see below for more advice)

  • 13:30 - 16:00 - Plein air sketching in Lower Slaughter. We'll focus on measuring, composition and finding your scene amongst too much beauty.

  • 17:00 onwards - Colin and I will head out for some more sketching and drinks with any who wish to join! This will either be in Bourton, or we might head to Stow (group discussion!).

Sunday:

  • 08:00 - Optional coffee again!

  • 09:00 - 12:30 - This morning we will focus firstly on greens, landscapes and creating a focus from an overwhleming scene. Colin and I will do a couple of demos each, with plenty of time in between for sketching as a group.

  • 12:30-13:30 - Lunch break (See below for more advice)

  • 13:30-16:00 - Sketching back in Lower Slaughter, we'll encourage independent ideas, finding scenes that interest you, and creating something that you can cherish from this weekend. Toby will also do some 'mindful' sketching indoors for the second half of the afternoon, to give those who have had a full on weekend a chance to relax and chat. Perhaps over yet another tea ;)

FAQs

What is there for lunch?

In Lower Slaughter there are a couple of pubs/inns, these are quite pricy, rather lovely, but the food only 'ok' in my experience. However, there is a little cafe at the old mill, and one of the pubs has a great food truck serving bagels and flatbreads. Another option is to bring a packed lunch like Colin and I, a microwave is also available.

What about coffee?

The pub next to our village hall has coffees and cakes, as well as the Old Mill's cafe. We will be providing coffee, tea (including herbal teas) and light snacks for the whole weekend (biscuits, fruit, nuts) with gluten free and vegan alternatives as well.

How far is Bourton?

I walked there and back this weekend in around 45 minutes, including stopping to get a takeaway coffee. It's a lovely morning walk, but probably too far to go for lunch if you don't want to miss any of the workshops.

Do I need an outside seat/stool/camping chair?

This could be a useful addition indeed. There are places to sit and perch around the village, but the village is very touristy, so finding a comfortable seat would be easier if you have one on hand.

Colin and I will have a seat or two that can be borrowed at times as well. And finding a place to be comfortable is certainly a part of the outdoor experience!

Is there parking in Lower Slaughter?

Yes, it gets very busy after 10, but there is free parking. Please don't park on the yellow lines, of course, and if you can car share, or even enjoy the lovely walk from Bourton to Lower Slaughter, then that's even better.

What other equipment do I need?

Everything is listed in the course pages and I'll update them shortly with the contents of this email too.

If you don't have something that is listed, it really won't be vital! Bring the size of paper and sketchbook that you are most comfortable with. That is the same for you colours, inks and anything else you might use.

The aim of the weekend is that you enjoy yourself, and feel more comfortable in your style. As much as a small army of Toby and Colin clones would be fun (!!) it's even more fun if everyone is enjoying being happy in themselves 😀

What if it's raining? or too hot?

Do prepare for the weather with a coat/umbrella and sun cream and hats. We won't be outside if the weather is awful, but we might still venture out to get some reference material and work on very quick sketches to build on inside.

Some of the workshops look quite long to be outside?

We will never be far from the village hall, there will always be the option for some of the group to return and sketch inside, or even go to the cafe and have a break for a little while. Colin and I will make sure that you feel comfortable doing this, and if there is a group (or even just one person) that wants to be back inside, Colin and I will divide and conquer and make sure that both groups have our attention.