Ann Swan workshop

I had a brilliant two days on a workshop at Ann Swan's studio in Rowde.  It was all about graphite pencil and the project was to draw a pineapple, which was very difficult.  By the end I had about four square inches of finished work!  However I have learnt so much more.  I know how to set myself exercises to get started on a piece of work and free up the right side of the brain.  I know how to sharpen my pencils!  I discovered that I have been using the wrong side of my expensive paper and that colours can be blended with baby oil for under-painting.   I now know that Mozart in the background will improve my drawing and that I must practise every day.

The food was lovely and lunch was in the restored Victorian greenhouse on the first day, which was sunny.  It was too cold on the second.  It was a treat to work in the purpose built studio surrounded by Ann's pictures, many of which are reproduced in her book .  I bought materials and some of her cards and have every intention of buying a print some time.
Find her at www.annswan.co.uk