Charcoal Sketching in Nature

Time: Half-day (10:15 am – 12:00 pm or 12:45 pm – 2:30 pm)
Cost: £80 per class
Curriculum links:

• Art & Design: Drawing skills, Charcoal techniques, Texture, Tone, Observational sketching

• PSHE: Mindfulness, Wellbeing

Pupils will explore the Gunpowder Mills site through drawing, using charcoal to sketch both industrial heritage buildings and surrounding natural landscapes. Once an important ingredient in gunpowder production, charcoal provides a fascinating link between the site’s history and creative learning.

Students will learn how to use charcoal to create texture, gesture and tonal shading, developing their observational drawing skills while responding to their environment.

Set within peaceful woodland and waterways, the session also encourages mindfulness and careful observation of wildlife, helping pupils slow down, focus, and connect with nature in a unique and inspiring setting.

A pupil’s charcoal sketch inspired by the Gunpowder Mills landscape.