WEA courses

We will meet online weekly for 11 weeks, and the tutor will demonstrate each of the stitches that will be recorded for you to refer to between the sessions. There will also be handouts to use and plenty of inspiration through class discussion and links to websites and Pinterest, fostering a vibrant community of embroidery enthusiasts. This course will look at the different stitches and patterns used to create beautiful blackwork samples. These can then be turned into pictures or sewn into various projects. Blackwork is a historical embroidery technique using aida or evenweave cloth, and it is characterised by its use of black thread on a white or light-coloured background. Originating in Spain and popularised in England during the Tudor period, blackwork is known for its intricate geometric designs and floral motifs. Blackwork was traditionally used to embellish clothing, particularly cuffs and collars, and is noted for its delicate and sophisticated appearance. The technique often employs a backstitch or a Holbein stitch.You will learn how to create various blackwork patterns, mastering the use of different stitches to achieve stunning effects. Overall, this course aims to not only enhance your embroidery skills but also deepen your appreciation for blackwork.

A friendly and accessible guide to feature writing, both in print and/or for digital media – blogs, online reviews etc. How to write, research, style and structure an article, either/or factual and creative. Taking time to identify a suitable publication for a proposed article and making first contact. This course also explores the online possibilities of reviews and blogging – how to blog consistently and maintain a readership. This course will make use of a mix of informal feedback, lecture using PowerPoint slides, some focused group discussion/creative tasks in breakout rooms and feedback. Suitable for beginners or improvers and those with a passing curiosity!

Build on your calligraphy skills with our Craft: Next Steps in Calligraphy: Italic - Unlocking Creativity course. Learn advanced italic lettering techniques and explore creative applications of italic script. Ideal for individuals with basic calligraphy experience looking to advance their skills.

Master the art of traditional calligraphy with our Craft: Advanced Traditional Calligraphy: Unlocking Creativity - Taking It on to the Next Level course. Learn advanced techniques in traditional scripts and apply them to creative projects. Ideal for individuals with basic calligraphy experience looking to refine their skills in traditional lettering.

Master the art of modern calligraphy with our Craft: Advanced Exploring Modern Calligraphy: Unlocking Creativity course. Learn advanced techniques in lettering, flourishes, and layout to create beautiful and expressive calligraphy pieces. Ideal for individuals with basic calligraphy experience looking to refine their skills.

A lively thematic course that explores how selected modern and contemporary artists have employed, manipulated and pioneered the use of specific materials in the production of 3D artworks. Through a range of class discussions, activities and resources, each week we will focus on a specific material, looking at the diversity of ways that international artists have produced art using materials that will include: marble and stone; wood; bronze and metal; organic materials; fibres and textiles; and found objects. Artists featured on the course will include Louise Nevelson, Anselm Kiefer, George Baselitz, Mrinalini Mukherjee, Rachel Whiteread, Andy Goldsworthy and Jeffrey Gibson. This course is funded by Greater London Combined Authority.

Do you want to learn the basics of watercolours? Have you tried before and given up in frustration? Why not join this course for support and encouragement? Watercolour, simply put, is water mixed with pigment which is then applied to paper. But painting with watercolours is something entirely different. It can be complex, confusing, and fun at the same time. While not a medium to be controlled or manipulated, part of the very beauty of working with watercolours is learning to let go! Come and join us to find out more.

The ESOL Living and working in UK course is designed for beginners who have little or no prior knowledge of the English language. In a face-to-face, comfortable and very positive environment you will have an opportunity to improve your skill and gain confidence. This course is focused on helping students develop fundamental speaking and listening skills in English. By the end of the course, students should be able to hold simple conversations and understand basic English conversations. Indulge in the topics like : “All about me”, “Talking about your neighbourhood”, “How do you spend your weekends?” and many more.

With interactive lessons and real-life scenarios, this course equips learners with essential language skills.

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of practical drawing and painting techniques with a specific focus on still life compositions. Through a series of hands-on exercises and projects, students will develop their artistic skills and gain a deeper understanding of the principles and elements of art. In a supportive and collaborative environment, participants will learn to observe and capture the essence of still life objects using various drawing and painting mediums. Through a combination of demonstrations, discussions, and individualized feedback, students will refine their abilities to render form, texture, and light with accuracy and sensitivity.