I have created a series of workshops each season to include themes that my students find challenging. Although each workshop is self-contained, I have structured them progressively so that they can be taken together as a course. If you are a beginner, I suggest that you start with Number 1. Otherwise just look through a series and find a workshop that inspires you! If you’re keen to learn then you can book all in a series. If you can, join with my most recent workshops, that way you can enjoy learning with others. The support you gain from my online community will help you just as much as my tips, because they can relate to your stage in your creative journey.

You can work through each workshop as its recorded, at your own pace or pick the scenes that appeal to you. The series combines to make a progressive course, taking you through a series of challenges to build up your skills and confidence.

If you would like to get a feel for the pastel workshops, you can see a free demonstration in my Facebook group, Art Online. Please answer the Facebook membership questions, it’s a way of keeping the group safe and friendly. It’s all set up by a real human, me, so it can take a little time.

If you are making a start in pastels for the first time, then you will need something to draw with and something to draw on. I’ve answered some frequently asked questions here. A frequent beginners mistake is to buy a large set of cheaper pastels. Those of you who are more experienced will know that the quality of your pastels and paper is really important. Not only will it help you to create better pictures, it will also make the experience of pastel painting much more enjoyable! People usually find that it is better to start off with a smaller set of better materials and build from there. When you sign up for a session I will share with you my recommendations for the pastels and papers that you will need. For those of you who would like to go deeper intro the topic, I suggest that you follow this link to a post where I explain how I chose my Unison set ….

How to create Seascapes Soft Pastel Workshop – A great introduction for beginners – Number 1

I knew this gorgeous view would be perfect for a beginner to gain confidence. If it’s your first time or you are just returning to art after a break, this soft pastel workshop is a great place to start. A sunny view with a fluffy crashing wave is very forgiving for a beginner. It gets you using the media without having to worry too much about accuracy and drawing skills which will always come with time and practice.

Your first seascape and your wave will have its own character. It will be unique to you, just like the sea. Be kind to yourself when starting, it’s always daunting but it’s worth remembering that each workshop you do will help your skills improve. I’m using Sennelier Pastel Card and Unison Colour Pastels in my workshops. They’ve become my favourites but there are other brands that will be suitable. It’s easier to create my images if you use the same surfaces and materials as me. Get in touch if you need advice ahead of choosing the pastel surface and which soft pastels to use. These frequently asked questions will help, click here.

I will explain the reasons behind my material choices and processes during the workshop. Please credit my workshop when posting your workshop artwork on social media. The images I share with you are for learning and not for commercial gain.

The challenge of a sunset with subtle colours and silky sands and glistening water. This workshop will enable you to work on your understanding of perspective. It’s a beautiful view and a great way to explore your sunset colour palette. You’ll receive a list of materials and notes to help you learn more about my technique. The video can be watched as many times and you need and stopped and started to help you gain confidence during creating the artwork.

Personalised feedback

If you would prefer, I can give you detailed email feedback on your paintings via email from £45.00 in addition to the Youtube lessons.

Here’s some of the recent feedback on Art Online

“I wasn’t sure if it would work but I have really enjoyed the workshops. Nice to see everyone, get help with problems , no one is critical and we have a laugh.”

“We share our work and can ask for help and constructive criticism from Nina to keep our work progressing. This is such a great way of teaching, learning and staying in touch.”

“I have found the online sessions fun, very engaging, productive and social. Demonstrations have provided a good insight on how to attempt and develop a range of subjects and techniques.”

“Group online sessions have created a productive, relaxed and engaging atmosphere. It means we interact with other artists on aspects of painting. It’s a friendly and helpful group of people.” 

More information about a face to face Soft Pastel workshop in Dorset

We work with pastels, acrylic and mixed media in our friendly and small art groups in Poole and Dorset. My art sessions are suitable for beginners and experienced artists. My 10 week courses will cover basic techniques and extend your mixed media skills and approaches. We use mainly soft pastel but occasionally it’s effective to combine soft pastel with acrylic painting. I encourage you to collect your own images that inspire you, which I can help you turn into your own creation. You can bring in a selection of items to work from if you prefer to work from a still life. A selection of pastels can be provided for beginners and experimentation.

Click on weekly workshops in Wimborne for our weekly Thursday class opposite The Old Inn. Ring or email for dates. 

Comments from Soft Pastel Workshops.

‘I have been attending Nina’s classes for nearly 5 years now and everyone I have met during that time has been friendly and have all, not only enjoyed the days, but learnt to produce amazing art work in a short time.’

‘Nina’s style of teaching seems to suit everybody, from beginners to more advanced and we are all encouraged to develop our own style and work on our own projects. It’s my favourite day of the week!’ 

‘My husband bought me a ten week pastel course as a Christmas present five years ago and I haven’t missed a course since.  It has been fantastic to learn a new skill among a group of such welcoming and supportive people many of whom have become good friends.  Nina is a teacher who encourages us to develop our own style and guides us with a light touch enabling us to produce some amazing works of art.’

Booking is in advance and cannot be refunded unless you can find someone to replace you.