These relaxed monthly meet-ups are perfect for trying your hand at something new, finding inspiration for your own projects and socialising with like-minded people. You can join in the planned activities or do your own thing – just come along and get creative! Materials are provided and an artist is on hand to offer guidance should you need it.
Friday 5 July, 11:00–12:30
Festival of the Sea with Natalie Easton
Be inspired by the natural shape of driftwood and use acrylics to create a fish or a whole shoal of aquatic creatures. Perhaps a lighthouse or mermaid will join the ocean crew? Session led by mixed media artist Natalie Easton.
Friday 19 July, 11:00–12:30
Illustrated photos with Flying Lion
Let photographer, illustrator and graphic designer Flying Lion help you unleash your creativity and playfulness through photography and illustration, finding animals, creatures, and impossible beasts in our surroundings. Inspired by the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, whether you're using a mobile phone camera, a professional camera, or no camera at all, you’ll discover unexpected ways of seeing and explore processes such as doodling over prints and experimenting with drawing tools to build a different point of view – and have loads of fun!
Friday 16 August, 11:00–12:30
Sketching in the galleries with Natalie Easton
Whether you’re new to sketching or a more confident artist, this is an informal opportunity to spend time with like-minded people sketching in-the inspiring setting of the Art Gallery. Explore drawing still life, or capture the impressive architecture of the building, or focus on figures by sketching our visitors. A selection of sketching tools will be provided but feel free to bring your own. This session is led by mixed media artist Natalie Easton.
Friday 20 September, 11:00–12:30
Creative writing with RS Kendle
Using the William Gillies and the Scottish Landscape as inspiration, writer and poet RS Kendle will guide you through a series of prompts and exercises to create writing that explores the ideas of Scottish identity in English, Doric and Scots.
There is no pressure to create a polished piece – this session is a chance to engage with the paintings and explore writing creatively.
Friday 18 October, 11:00–12:30
Abstract textile art with Lynsey Allan
Create and design your own textile art with simple sewing techniques inspired by our iconic costume collection. Drawing through stitch, this session will explore a form of craft to create simple yet effective artwork.
