Take inspiration from André Derain’s L’Estaque, a masterpiece of the Fauvism movement, to create your own vibrant abstract oil painting.

Through playful experimentation, you will reinterpret Derain’s iconic landscape using exaggerated colours, expressive mark-making, and abstracted shapes, discovering how emotion and energy can lead your creative decisions.

With guided demonstrations and plenty of hands-on painting time, you will experiment with abstraction and learn how Fauvist techniques can inspire contemporary painting.

You will be encouraged to take creative risks, trust your instincts, and push beyond traditional representation, all in a supportive and relaxed environment.

By the end of the workshop, you will have completed your own abstract oil painting inspired by L’Estaque and gained confidence in your own creative decisions.

Basic materials provided. Food and drink is also available for purchase throughout the session from our cafes.

This workshop is suitable for ages 18+.

What is Fauvism?

Fauvism was the first of the avant-garde movements that flourished in France in the early years of the twentieth century. The Fauvist style is characterised by its bold colours, textured brushwork and non-naturalistic depictions.

What is abstract oil painting?

Unlike representational art, abstract oil paintings focus on form, colour, and texture rather than depicting recognisable subjects. The rich, buttery consistency of oil paints allows artists to create stunning textured effects that add depth and dimension to each piece.

About your tutor

Denisa Mansfield is an artist whose work explores expressive colour, movement, and emotion through the language of Impressionism and abstraction.

She works primarily in oils, with a focus on how traditional methods can be reinterpreted in contemporary ways. Her practice celebrates curiosity, creative risk-taking, and the joy of discovery through paint.