Illustration workshop inspired by Jane Austen: Beyond the Bonnets

Paper cutting was a popular pastime in the Regency era, capturing the likeness of friends and loved ones in striking silhouettes before the invention of photography. Join artist Emily Harper for a relaxing one-day workshop of Jane Austen inspired art and crafts to channel your inner Bennet sister and feel as accomplished as Georgiana Darcy! Participants will create their very own paper cut silhouette artwork (bonnet optional!) and decorate their piece with a border of watercolour flowers, taking inspiration from the language of flowers. This workshop is based on the exhibition 'Beyond the Bonnets: Working Women in Jane Austen's Novels' which will be at The Willis Museum from from November 2025 - February 2026. 

What you'll learn: 

• create their very own paper cut silhouette artwork
• gather inspiration from the Beyond the Bonnets exhibition
• painting techniques to add a border of watercolour flowers
• (optional) create a silhouette of yourself in Jane Austen style to add to your wall!

Who is this workshop for: 

This workshop is open to all abilities - whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced artist, you'll enjoy the chance to learn new skills, connect with others and spend a relaxing day immersed in creativity. All materials are included.

About Brighter Futures:

Our Brighter Futures courses aren't just about learning and developing arts-based skills, they provide time, space and tools to care for your wellbeing through creativity. Each workshop is designed to leave you feeling inspired, supported and recharged. Led by professional artists, these courses provide a gentle, laid back approach to art, which offers a calm, supportive environment to try something new, meet new people and take some time away from the busyness of everyday. Our workshops put an emphasis on allowing people to try something new in a supportive, calm and accepting environment. Want to read more about our Brighter Futures programme, and read about the experience of past participants? Please visit our webpage here: Brighter Futures | Hampshire Cultural Trust

Any questions?

On our Brighter Futures webpage, you can find an FAQ which includes all the information you may need about getting to the venue, accessibility, how to book a space, reasonable adjustments, etc. 

Want to find out more about what to expect on this workshop? Further down this page you can find a link to our visual social story, which will tell you everything you need to know about who is delivering the workshop, who else will be attending, the structure of the day, and much more. 

Accessibility: Please note that this course takes place on the top floor of the museum which must be accessed via stairs. We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.