All my workshops are suitable for beginners, improvers and those with more experience.
One Day Workshops
Scroll down for details of upcoming workshops. All one day workshops are £40, (£50 from January 2026) and usually held at Exeter Library (unless otherwise stated).
Each workshop has separate list of materials which can be viewed underneath each description.
A registration form can be found at the base of this page.
SIMPLE PORTRAIT DRAWING, SATURDAY 17th JANUARY, 10-4
Learn how to draw portraits with confidence and clarity in this one-day workshop.
Suitable for beginners and improvers alike, this course takes the mystery out of portrait drawing and replaces it with clear, structured understanding.
Using simple geometrical guides, you’ll learn how to map out the face and place each feature in accurate proportion. You’ll discover how to “decode” the structure of the face — seeing it as a series of shapes and relationships, rather than an intimidating whole. Once that framework is understood, drawing people becomes far less daunting, and progress comes quickly with practice.
This workshop focuses on building skills and confidence through step-by-step guidance and one-to-one support. My approach is practical and encouraging, helping you see that artistic competence isn’t magic — it’s simply learned, developed, and refined like any other skill.
By the end of the day, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to map out a face, and the tools to keep improving long after the workshop.
As of January, all one day courses will be £50, including this one.
I hope to see you there!

List of Materials for Simple Portrait Drawing

Pencil
A very sharp HB pencil. A mechanical pencil (as shown) is preferable for this course, as it stays sharp. Click photo for link.

Paper
Any white drawing paper will be fine for this course.

Eraser
Any eraser will be fine. If you would like a quality, fine eraser, please click the photo for the link.

Sharpener
Only necessary if you are using traditional wood pencils.
LOVEBIRDS IN WATERCOLOUR, SATURDAY 7th FEBRUARY, 10-4
Celebrate colour, connection, and creativity in this joyful Valentine’s-inspired workshop. Suitable for both beginners and improvers, this one-day class focuses on painting a charming pair of lovebirds — a perfect subject to brighten winter days and to create a hand-painted gift full of warmth and care.
Through guided, step-by-step instruction, you’ll learn how to blend the rich, nuanced colours of the birds’ feathers, moving through soft gradients of greens, blues, yellows, and coral tones. I will demonstrate how to balance vibrancy with delicacy, using layering and water control to achieve depth and luminosity. You’ll also explore how to paint simple foliage to complete the composition, bringing harmony to your finished piece.
The workshop combines clear, structured teaching with a calm, friendly atmosphere. My approach takes the mystery out of painting: you’ll discover that skill in art is learned — not magic — and that progress comes through understanding, practice, and encouragement. Everyone receives personal guidance, and by the end of the day, you’ll take home a completed watercolour painting of your own.
Whether you join for the love of colour, to improve your technique, or to create a heartfelt Valentine’s gift, this will be a peaceful, creative day spent in good company.
List of Materials for Lovebirds
Click on photos to purchase

Watercolour paper
Good paper is essential for good results. Please invest in 1 large sheet of Saunders Waterford 300gsm COLD PRESSED or Arches 300gsm COLD PRESSED. 1 Sheet will be enough for this workshop, you'll have plenty left over. Cheap paper creates unnecessary frustration and unattractive results. Cold pressed paper is also known as NOT.

Brushes
Royal and Langnickle brand are cheap, but surprisingly good. Try to purchase a small range of medium to small sizes.

Watercolours
Good quality watercolours are easier to handle and produce superior results. This set is a good starter set if you are on a budget. For quality brands see Winsor & Newton (professional grade), Schmincke, Paul Smith.

Mixing Palette
Any mixing palette is fine (no link here). Even an old plate will serve very well.
FURTHER MATERIALS: a very sharp HB pencil, a 2B or 4B pencil, an eraser, a glass jar for water.
Testimonials
Upcoming Workshops TBA
Simple Portrait Drawing January 17th 2026
A one-day workshop to demystify the puzzle of drawing faces.
Lovebirds in Watercolour February 7th 2026
A one-day watercolour workshop painting a pair of brightly coloured lovebirds.
Birds in Flight in March 2026
A watercolour workshop painting a flying bird, using painting techniques to blur edges and create a sense of movement.
Please register your interest for any of these forthcoming workshops by filling in the ‘Additional Comments’ section in the form below.
Please regularly check spam/junk folders. Unfortunately my emails often end up there.
Registration Form
Once you have filled out this form, please make your payment of £40 by BACS transfer using the bank details at the base of the form using your name as reference (important, otherwise I can’t identify your payment)
© Nadezhda Portrait Artist 2017
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