Get Creative at Tatton Park!

March 1, 2012

Do you long for the heady days of potato printing, making pompoms and pipe cleaner animals?  Or is it time to try something a little more taxing - but just as much fun?

If you are in need of re-flexing those creative muscles or developing a new skill, give Tatton’s ‘Get Creative’ courses a try. 

The stunning natural landscape of Tatton Park and its historic collection is the inspiration for a number of creative classes in 2012.

There are three new workshops this year.  On Sunday, May 6 Cheshire artist Andy Leigh will lead a workshop in mixed media techniques such as sculpting, watercolour and drawing skills, taking inspiration from Tatton’s gardens. The Natural Wonders workshop is ideal for complete novices and those looking for a new creative challenge.

On Sunday, June 24 Andy leads a Ceramic workshop, inspired by the natural features of the parkland.  During this masterclass participants can try their hand at creating decorative pots, tiles and sculptures using throwing and slab techniques.

Find inspiration from Tatton’s gardens to write your own poetry during the Green Thoughts workshop on Thursday, August 9. Explore the use of gardens and flowers in classic poetry and dig deep for inspiration during a guided tour of the gardens before creating your own work. 

Finally, the ever popular Watercolour workshops return from May to August. Led with an artistic flourish by painter Chris Beesley, these classes provide a wonderful opportunity for people to develop new skills and enhance existing talents.  There is a great supportive atmosphere, so brush off your reservations and pick up your paintbrush. Weather permitting the courses will take place in the gardens.

The Get Creative courses are part of nearly 60 adult and family learning activities and participatory events taking place this year include lectures, talks, tours and practical sessions in skills from longbow to container gardening. This year’s willow weaving courses are already fully booked so book early for all courses to avoid disappointment.

Commercial services manager Graham Jones said: “There is truly something for everyone in 2012. The courses also make ideal gifts - if you are searching for an unusual present for a friend or loved one, look no further.”

Find out more on our website, by downloading our Adult and Family learning booklet or call 01625 374428.

Natural Wonders: Sunday, May 6.

10.30am-3.30pm. £22 per person.  Take inspiration from Tatton’s gardens and join artist Andy Leigh for a creative hands-on day using mixed media art techniques such as sculpting, watercolours, drawing skills and much more.  Ideal for complete novices. All materials supplied.

Watercolour workshops: Saturdays: May 19, June 23, July 7 and November 3;  Wednesdays: July 4, 25 July, August 22; Thursday, August 23. 10am-4pm. £28 per person. Book with tutor Chris Beesley on 07773 982996 or email chrisbeesleyart@sky.com

Create your watercolour masterpiece in the grounds of Tatton Park’s gardens with our expert art tutor. 

Ceramic workshop: Sunday, June 24.

10.30am-3.30pm. £22 per person.  Capture the spirit of Tatton’s parkland by exploring the natural features within the grounds with local artist Andy Leigh.  Decorative pots, tiles and sculptures will be created using throwing and slab techniques.

Green Thoughts – gardens and poetry:  Thursday, August 9.

10am-3pm. £18 per person.  An opportunity to explore the significance of gardens in our literary heritage and to write creatively in response to them.  Participants will begin by examining examples of gardens and flowers in classic poems and then use a guided tour of Tatton’s unique gardens as an inspiration.

Booking in advance essential for all.  Please call 01625 374428 for all workshops  (except watercolour workshops, contact as above).

For further information about this release contact:

Eleanor Gorsuch, Marketing Department                                                          

Tel: 01625 374447 / Email: eleanor.gorsuch@cheshireeast.gov.uk

http://www.tattonpark.org.uk/

Tatton Park is managed and financed by Cheshire East Council on behalf of the National Trust.

This impressive historic estate receives in the region of 750,000 visitors every year all of whom come to enjoy its Georgian mansion, Tudor Old Hall, award- winning gardens and 1930s rare breeds farm.  The 1,000-acre deer park is home to red and fallow deer and the estate also boasts speciality shops, adventure playground, restaurant and year-round events programme.

Tatton Park is one of Cheshire’s leading Gardens of Distinction.

Cheshire’s Gardens of Distinction programme celebrates the richness and diversity of Cheshire’s horticultural heritage and green spaces.  Building on the success of Cheshire’s Year of Gardens 08 marketing programme, the project aims to continue to achieve significant impact for the regional tourism industry from local, national and international markets.  For more information visit www.visitcheshire.com/gardens

Supported by the European Regional Development Fund.

The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) is making a real difference to people and businesses in the North West. With €755 million to invest between 2007 and 2013, ERDF is enhancing the competitiveness of the region’s economy by supporting growth in enterprise and employment.

ERDF in the North West is managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government – for further information visit www.communities.gov.uk/erdf.