Watercolour Painting Masterclass in London

Discover how to paint a rich variety of subjects — from atmospheric landscapes to expressive portraits and detailed still life — in luminous, flowing watercolour. This four-day mastercourse will guide you through essential techniques like transparent washes, layering, colour harmony, and texture creation, while showing how to adapt them across different subjects.

Inspired by the work of J.M.W. Turner, John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and other masters, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to paint with freedom and clarity in your own style.

Learn from professional artists and educators with extensive experience in pastel drawing and art history. Our tutors have trained at world-renowned institutions such as:

• Royal Academy of Arts, Slade School of Fine Art, Central Saint Martins
• École des Beaux-Arts, Paris
• Florence Academy of Art, Italy

Bringing together traditional methods and contemporary innovation, they will guide you through the techniques that made pastel a favourite among portraitists and Impressionists alike.

Sunny Art Centre is one of London’s most respected art schools, known for its high-quality tuition and combination of classical foundations with innovative practices. We have delivered workshops for institutions such as the National Gallery, Royal Academy of Arts, and BBC.

Over four inspiring days, you’ll master:

• Core watercolour techniques — wet-on-wet, glazing, lifting, dry brush
• Light & tone — using values to create depth and contrast
• Colour mixing & harmony — natural palettes for any subject
• Texture & edges — foliage, skin, fabrics, glass, and more
• Composition & perspective — strengthen layouts for landscapes, still lifes, and portraits
• Expressive brushwork — convey movement, atmosphere, and character

We’ll also explore how great watercolourists approached each subject, from Turner’s sweeping skies to Sargent’s spontaneous portraits.

Day 1 – Foundations & Landscapes

• Morning: Introduction to materials, colour theory, tonal values
• Afternoon: Brush control, skies, and outdoor-inspired scenes

Day 2 – Still Life & Texture

• Morning: Composition for still life, creating mood with light
• Afternoon: Texture studies (glass, fruit, flowers, metal) and a still life painting

Day 3 – Portraits & Figures

• Morning: Proportions, facial features, skin tones in watercolour
• Afternoon: Painting expressive portraits from photo or life

Day 4 – Personal Project & Feedback

• Morning: Students choose a subject (landscape, still life, portrait) to develop
• Afternoon: Final details, tutor feedback, and tips for independent practice

• Central London location in Covent Garden
• Small group sizes or private 1-to-1 tuition
• Expert tutors with professional pastel experience
• Includes reference materials and technique guides
• Ideal for art portfolio preparation or lifelong learners

Upon completing the programme, you will receive an official Certificate of Completion from Sunny Art Centre, recognising your achievement in mastering historical and modern pastel drawing techniques.

• Beginners to advanced artists
• Teenagers and adults
• Those interested in historical drawing methods, Impressionism, and expressive techniques
• Artists seeking to add pastel expertise to their portfolio

• Private 1:1 Tuition
• Small Group Tuition (up to 10 people)

A: Sunny Art Centre, Covent Garden, Kemble St, London, WC2B 4AW
T: 020-86165990 
E: info@sunnyartcentre.co.uk
Office Opening Hours: 10 am- 6 pm (Mon-Fri)