The Programme

As with everything, your desire to paint involves just as much learning as any other hobby.

      Your targets and our aims...

 We could set targets for the beginner or experienced painter, however as everyone is different, it is important to help you achieve as much or as little as you want in the time you set aside. Our aim is to give you the tools to improve and understand your art.

 The skill is to help you interpret what you see, and how you construct that image. So as much as possible we have smaller classes so that the tuition is closer to a one to one basis. This way the tuition is structured to you.............from complete beginner to seasoned artist.

      In order to help you...

              Peter Smithson is now our regular artist at French Palette

Peter is a local artist who has lived in the gorge for the past 15 years, and has exhibited locally throughout that period.

As a former tutor at Grammar Schools he is able to start from the beginning and relate to all types of art and ability and his knowledge of drawing and painting is extensive.

Often selling through local outlets he is rewowned  for his animal and landscape paintings, for which he gets regular commisions.

He works in differing media and is also known locally for his "Pebble Art", whereby visitors find interesting rocks on the beaches and ask him to produce miniatures for them.

Essentially the course is directed towards painting and drawing through pencil, charcoal and painting mediums, oils, watercolour, gouache and acrylics.

The core of his teaching is based upon the location so the most practical applications will be using the surrounding landscape and architecture, and the wild flora and wonderful light. We also have the benefit of the studio, where still life studies can be explored for those who prefer that environment, and which we use as an alternative for poor weather.

 Ideas in composition and relationships of colour are examined, and it is Peters remit to cater for all levels of ability primarily on a one to one basis throughout the working day. He also welcomes those who wish to work in an abstract manner as he recognises art takes on all forms.

      How it works for you...

 The atmosphere at French Palette is relaxed. In the fully equipped studio that is open to you all day, there is a computer and photographic equipment to record your projects. We also take you out to paint at various inspiring locations in the area to help feed your artistic cravings and hopefully inspire you to new heights of creativity.

At our disposal we have some of the finest scenery in Europe with every aspect of art available, from landscapes to still life, the diversity is amazing.

 As we all know the weather can change, so we provide alternatives for our painters should it turn inclement. Packed lunches will be provided on excursions enabling you to enjoy more time to paint. Materials, easels and stools will be provided also and Peter will be on hand for tuition, encouragement or assistance should you need it.

 A holiday is an important time for most people as it can take so long to arrive and can pass quickly, leaving just a memory. Our aim is to help you transfer it into art. Something to look at and treasure as an achievement, and trigger a reminder of that precious time you spent here.

So, as a novice with the right kind of guidance and help, you have no fear of competition or judgement, no set rules of technique in order to relax and begin on the right foot on a journey you will enjoy, and remember, maybe forever?