Learn the secrets behind William Morris’s timeless, nature-inspired designs and create your own richly layered masterpiece using the calming and accessible medium of watercolour.
This workshop is for fans of the Arts and Crafts Movement, interior design enthusiasts, those interested in historical patterns, and crafters looking to learn a new skill.
Aims: To create a richly layered, nature-inspired watercolour masterpiece, learn the specific illustrative style and design principles of William Morris, and enjoy a relaxing, rewarding artistic activity.
The aim is to create something beautiful, learn a specific illustrative style, and participate in a relaxing, rewarding activity.
Learning from professional artist Nicky Bell, well seasoned in the art of watercolour painting.
We will explore:
• Discuss the core elements that make a Morris pattern:
• Abstracted, flat forms of plants, flowers, and animals (not hyper-realistic).
• The use of a structured, repeating, often diagonal or serpentine lattice/framework.
• Foreground motifs (leaves/flowers) overlapping and interwoven with background elements for a dense, rich effect.
• Use of rich, natural, muted tones (earthy greens, indigos, ochres, reds). Reviewing a Morris-inspired palette and mixing the desired rich, natural colours.
• Introduction to the specific watercolour techniques needed: Achieving smooth, even layers of colour (characteristic of early Morris designs which mimicked blockprinting). Building up depth and richness by applying thin washes of colour over dried previous layers.
• The use of simple, clear outlines (often pencil or fine pen) to define motifs.
• Gathering inspiration, participants choose a simple natural motif (e.g., a simple leaf, flower, or berry cluster), imagery will be provided.
• Further adding secondary, often scrolling/serpentine foliage or background filler elements to create the required richness and density.
• Outlining the finished pencil lines using a permanent, fine-tip black pen (or very dark watercolour/ink) to create the crisp, defined outlines typical of the style.
Dates:
- Saturday 10 January, 10.30am - 4.30pm
- Saturday 17 January, 10.30am - 4.30pm
You only need to book one of the dates.
