Explore expressive still life painting through the techniques and ideas of Impressionism in this hands-on oil painting workshop focused on colour, light, and observation.

During the workshop, participants will be introduced to the principles of Impressionist painting before working from a ‘surprise’ still life arrangement revealed at the start of the session.

The unexpected setup encourages intuitive observation and spontaneous creative responses rather than over-planning.

Through guided demonstrations, attendees will learn how to quickly block in shapes, mix colours through observation, and use expressive brushwork to suggest form and light.

Participants will then create their own still life painting using oil paints on canvas board, focusing on atmosphere, colour relationships, and painterly mark-making rather than precise realism.

The workshop concludes with a group reflection and discussion exploring individual interpretations, brushwork styles, and creative decision-making.

Participants will leave with a completed Impressionist-inspired still life painting on canvas board and a stronger understanding of expressive painting techniques and observational colour work.

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

This workshop is suitable for ages 16+.

What is impressionism?

Impressionism is an art movement that captures the atmosphere and feeling of a scene through visible brushstrokes, changing light, and expressive colour.

Rather than focusing on perfect realism or fine detail, Impressionist artists use loose painting techniques to suggest movement, mood, and everyday moments.

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.