My name is Lin Beresford and I have over 30 years of teaching experience that I have channelled into the formation of Lin Beresford Studios.
In my custom-built studio, I teach small groups of up to six people and I give individual lessons. I also provide a conservation-grade professional picture framing service.
After years of observing why people feel incapable of drawing and painting, I've constructed a comprehensive art course from the very basics of draftsmanship to advanced techniques in oils, watercolour, pastel, and more.
I'm continually updating my skill set by studying with some of the most important artists working today. This allows me access to a wide range of methods and techniques to be able to pass on to my students.
I run a wide range of courses, from short intensive courses teaching basic draftsmanship to longer involved courses which cover portraiture, landscape, botanicals, still life and life drawing.
It has been shown that it takes about 20 hours of guided tuition to be able to draw. Therefore, my short drawing courses start with the absolute basics in order to take out any guesswork. I provide all of the necessary materials, absolutely free of charge. During class time, I will teach you to correctly measure the proportions and judge tones.
Once students have mastered drawing, we will look at the role of charcoal and some simple techniques to create more drama and realism in your work. Although I'm not saying that these classes are really easy for first-timers, it's absolutely straightforward. If you follow the process, it is perfectly possible for all of us to learn to draw and create beautifully toned and rendered artworks that you and your family can be proud of.
Once students are comfortable with the basics of draftsmanship, they often want to go on to study colour, which opens up many possibilities and areas to explore.
I simplify the process by creating a black and white underpainting, which is very easy to control once we have understood the basics of draftsmanship.
Both oil and chalk pastels are covered in this section. Landscapes, wildlife studies and pet portraits are particularly effective.
Although many people start out in watercolour, it is one of the more difficult mediums to master on your own. However, there are so many techniques and beautiful paints out there, so it's all worthwhile.
A wonderful pen and ink drawing has that certain something that is timeless. There is a whole new world of inks, from simple black ink to the most magnificent shimmering inks that can change colour!
Every year, we discover a new form of printmaking, from lino cutting to etching. It's great for homemade Christmas cards or just limited edition prints.
