Gillian French, an established artist, ASA member and Member of the Royal Society of Botanical Artists, came to the ASA's studio to do a day's workshop on flower painting. There was a lovely display of Spring flowers to work from. Gillian spent her time demonstrating and teaching, and it was fascinating to see the connection between drawing, brush, paint, water and paper demonstrated so clearly. It was a lively, interesting day and everyone went home with a sense of achievement.

Report and photographs by Wendy Fletcher

Gillian demonstrating

Flowers and Students

Charles Hickson, an experienced teacher and artist, came along to do a day's workshop based on abstraction. He briefly covered the history of abstraction, giving everyone some insight on how it came into being, and then demonstrated three of its aspects. The society members were then invited to explore the same three styles whilst Charles guided and encouraged. It was a most challenging and interesting day.

Report and photographs by Wendy Fletcher

Charles demonstrating

The Students having a go

End of workshop critique