WORKSHOP: Watercolour and the Contemporary English Landscape Inspired by David Hockney : with Suzy Fasht RWS

In the early 2000s David Hockney moved away from the camera and returned to painting by hand. He chose watercolour, a medium he had rarely used and painted the East Yorkshire landscape, where he had worked the fields in his youth. His works captured stippled fields, receding lanes, British weather and skies, puddles and seasonal changes in the farmland.

Hockney talked about the influence of Chinese painting and working directly with not only the hand and eye, but also the heart. These watercolours were exhibited in London and were the beginning of his engagement with the English landscape.

Inspired by his approach, this workshop explores Hockney’s visual language: how to simplify form, draw directly with the brush, and build dynamic and contemporary compositions.

Through guided exercises, you’ll experiment with mark-making, colour, and construction, learning how to capture atmosphere and shifting weather and light. Suitable for all levels, the day begins with quick warm-ups to build confidence, before moving into practical studies of Hockney’s techniques. You’ll then apply these ideas to your own landscape, creating a vibrant and personal watercolour.

This workshop will take place at RWS Gallery on Whitcomb Street, just off Trafalgar Square.

All bookings are non-refundable.

Workshop Outline

Please note that the materials list is not provided

RWS Gallery

3 - 5 Whitcomb Street

London, WC2H 7HA

*Friend Discount: Must have a Watercolour Artist Friend membership card

** A student discount of £75 is available to students in full time higher education on an art related course. If you are eligible for discount and would like to book onto this course, please send a scan/photo of your student ID and proof of enrolment to info@royalwatercoloursociety.com to recieve a discounted payment link.