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May 2016
Bobbin Lace Making
Alison Winn’s bobbin lace making courses are ideal whether you are a beginner or experienced lace maker.
Find out more »Bangle Weaving
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Find out more »Jewish humour in the films of Mel Brooks and Woody Allen
You think The Producers is hilarious? Or do you think: "well, talk about bad taste!". Maybe you think that Annie Hall is Woody Allen's greatest film, or Manhattan, or Zelig, or Crimes and Misdemeanors...? Very different in their comedy personae, Woody and Mel both started their professional careers writing for Sid Caesar in the 1950s. Both Jewish New Yorkers were from immigrant families but their humour crossed into and then influenced the mainstream. Let's find out how, and why...
Find out more »Advanced French: Monstres sacrés du cinéma français
This weekend course is held entirely in French. It focuses on various topics illustrated through literature and art, often related to present cultural events, and aimed at language improvement. The texts, chosen from a wide range of classic and modern writers, will be used as a basis for discussion throughout the sessions. A variety of audio-visual documents will enlighten the weekend theme and expand your knowledge of French culture.
Find out more »Urban experience, its history and its prospects
Over half of the world's population now lives in towns and cities, and urbanisation is accelerating. Has 8,000 years been enough for the species to adapt to high density and low certainty? Do cities produce distinct types of community? With cases ranging from ancient Sumer and Rome to Mexico City and Hong Kong today, we shall assess the implications for our future.
Find out more »Five young artists on the eve of the Great War
We follow the artistic fortunes of Richard Nevinson, John Currie, Mark Gertler, Edward Wadsworth and Adrian Allinson, the five young artists portrayed in John Currie's 1912 painting 'Some Later Primitives and Madame Tisceron'. On this journey, we will encounter triumph and despair, fame and obscurity, and study some of the greatest British art of the 20th century.
Find out more »Introduction to Taoist philosophy
Taoism is an ancient Chinese school of thought concerning human existence. We will examine the ideas of Taoist thinkers like Lao-tzu, Chuang-tzu, and others to see how their views about the Tao, return, no-mind, and non-activity/naturalness provide a philosophy of the human condition.
Find out more »Achieving Ways to Tranquility
Like winning the lottery or the World Cup, achieving tranquillity can seem an impossible dream. Instructions and advice are everywhere, the choice is endless, but is it possible? Is it easier to pop pills or complain about boredom or busyness? Do you want to find some peace in the moment or peace in action? How to get started is the purpose of the weekend. You won't be standing on your head or sitting uncomfortably cross-legged, chanting strange sounds. You will…
Find out more »Looking at the Novel
Our focus will be on four finely crafted, highly regarded novels drawn from across a century and more. Each has a distinctive setting. We will explore narrative styles, themes and techniques and approaches to building character. What is memorable about each work and how does this affect or maybe influence our own thinking and enjoyment? To benefit fully from our discussions, it would be helpful if you could read the following in advance. Conrad ‘Heart of Darkness’ (1902): Forster ‘A Passage to India’ (1924):…
Find out more »Goldwork
Goldwork is a stunning form of embroidery most often associated with ecclesiastical vestments. This course will introduce you to the main techniques involved. Students can either stitch pre-set designs such as dragonflies, ivy leaves, tile motifs or work on their own design ideas. All levels are welcome from total beginners to the more experienced. Everyone will work at their own pace and guidance will be given through explanations, demonstrations and individual tuition.
Find out more »Stitching the Textured Surface
Create mixed-media surfaces using different techniques and prepare them ready for stitch. We will be concentrating mainly on completing the textured surfaces which will then be ready to stitch into at a later date.
Find out more »Soutache – Bead Jewellery Making
Learn all the basics needed for bead embroidery, creating your own reference sampler as you work, and then use your new skills to finish two projects. Have fun exploring shape, form and colour and open up a world of possibilities. Additional costs will be incurred for course materials. Please refer to the Course Information Sheet.
Find out more »Design and Make Amigurumi – Crochet Toys
If you have ever wondered what amigurumi are all about, join us to explore the different shapes and techniques to design and make your very own bundle of cuteness! You will only need to know how to make a chain, double crochet and slip stitch.
Find out more »Discover your Inner Artist
This course is for anyone wanting to find new ways of expressing their creativity through mixed media. It is an exciting opportunity to create ideas from surprising sources, developing them in ways that will achieve several varied and exciting outcomes using techniques such as printing, wire work, paper and textile manipulation.
Find out more »Moving Figures in Watercolour
This is a unique opportunity to practise watercolour techniques whilst learning how to depict movement of the human figure. Through demonstrations, you will be shown how to visually express the dynamics of the figure, whilst learning the principles of motion, including impressions of dancing, exercising and other movements of the human body.
Find out more »Chinese Brush Painting for Beginners
This course will introduce you to the basic techniques of Chinese brush painting and give you the tools to paint in the traditional Chinese way: Xuan paper, ink and colour. The tutor will explain the characteristics of Chinese painting and, through a series of hands-on exercises, you will practise the techniques learnt.
Find out more »Spring Scrapbook Day
During the day we will create a double 12 x 12 inch layout with lots of fold out sections and a single 12 x12 inch layout. You will need photos to be cut to these sizes:- For the double layout: Six 6 inches wide x 4 inches tall. Five 6 inch square (you can use 5 inch square) One 3 inch wide x 4 inch tall and three 3 inch square For the single layout: Four 2 ¾ inch wide…
Find out more »Modern physics for beginners: from Schrödinger’s cat to time travel
Are you intrigued by quantum weirdness or the idea of faster-than-light travel? This day course will introduce you to the ideas that revolutionised physics in the 20th century, and will explore how these ideas can be applied, from understanding volcanoes to navigating with GPS systems.
Find out more »Chinese Brush Painting – Landscape Painting Techniques
Through hands-on exercises and guidance from the tutor, this one day course will introduce you to the techniques used to paint landscapes in the Chinese style, using water and ink, light colour and re-colour, as well as the basic method of painting colour.
Find out more »Flowers and Butterflies in Beadwork
Delicate and realistic two and three dimensional flowers and butterflies are worked using just needles, thread and predominantly tiny seed beads, applied to beadwork bases to create unique and desirable necklaces, pendants, lariats, bracelets, earrings and brooches, also napkin rings and bookmarks. Work at your own pace using a number of bead threading and weaving techniques to make stunning pieces of your choice selected from a wide range of samples which increases with new designs each year. Materials available to…
Find out more »The Egyptian Tomb: Doorway to the Afterlife
The ancient Egyptians believed that the first doorway to the Afterlife was the doorway of the tomb itself. This Course will look at the development of the Egyptian tomb from the Mastabas of the Old Kingdom, through the rock cut tombs of the New Kingdom, to the tombs of the Graeco-Roman period. The architectural development of the tomb will be considered in the light of changing religious beliefs, and we will look at the artwork the Egyptians considered essential to…
Find out more »German Language Through Literature and Film
Der Tangospieler by Christoph Hein tells the story of a man desperately trying to re-enter society after 21 months in prison for playing piano in a subversive student cabaret. The book not only gives an insight into various aspects of life in the GDR but also highlights the effects a totalitarian state can have on the individual. Throughout the weekend you will be able to further enhance your knowledge of German language, history and culture through reading, viewing and many…
Find out more »A Weekend of Tai Chi and Dao Yin
Spend a weekend enjoying a variety of flowing Chinese exercises and leave feeling relaxed. This course is suitable for men and women, for beginners and those with experience of Tai Chi. You will be encouraged to slow down and exercise smoothly, find your balance and improve your flexibility at your own pace and, in the process, release tension. We will work on a variety of Dao Yin exercises with traditional themes and on even-paced, Yang style, Tai Chi. (Optional session…
Find out more »Pastel Pencils and Hard Pastel Basics Introduction
An examination of the choices available, the types of suitable paper, the brands of pencil on the market and the basic techniques. Following a look at picture choices, we will explore ways of starting and developing a picture from a photo source, blending colours and adding detail. We will also consider ways of protecting the picture surface and methods of mounting and framing. Students should leave with a good basic knowledge of the medium’s techniques.
Find out more »Creative writing: an introduction to short story writing (online)
The short story is often described as one of the most satisfying literary genres, both to read and to write. This course encourages students to identify how these stories 'work' by considering classic examples which, in each class, illustrate a particular aspect of short story composition. An exchange of ideas and responses between students and tutor enable the student to then put into practice what they have observed in a series of writing challenges, designed to extend their writing skills…
Find out more »The fall of the Roman Empire (online)
What killed the Roman Empire in the West? Here we investigate the suspects, from crop failure to barbarian invaders, to discover what destroyed antiquity's greatest civilization. This course introduces one of the most fascinating periods in history and examines the controversies surrounding events which still affect our world today.
Find out more »Psychology in context (online)
This online course will introduce participants to the discipline of psychology by taking a context-based approach. Participants will be introduced to the history of psychology in the first week and will then see how various psychological approaches help our understanding of human behaviour in the following weeks. The course will introduce various fields within psychology, including environmental, social, developmental and health psychology. Within each of these fields particular topic areas will be explored.
Find out more »How do fossils record evolution? An exploration of the nature of the fossil record (online)
This course addresses the question of how fossils record evolution through an exploration of the nature of the fossil record. From a look at the initial discovery and interpretation of fossils we will examine the emergence of their modern interpretation as the remains of once living organisms. This reveals the biased and fragmentary nature of the fossil record, which presented a considerable problem to Charles Darwin and is still being resolved today with new techniques of investigation. We will outline…
Find out more »Globalisation and its impact on international development (online)
Globalisation has had a profound impact on the world. Technological developments and progress in communication and transport technologies have reshaped the way we interact. While globalisation encompasses a number of different aspects, in this course the focus is primarily on economic globalisation and its impact on international development. Using a number of case studies and empirical examples, course participants will develop a critical understanding of how globalisation affects international development and whether it has led to the world becoming a…
Find out more »Mediation and Mindfulness
A course designed for beginners, and for anyone wanting to refresh their own practice. We will look at how traditional meditation is now ‘mainstream’, formulated as Mindfulness by Jon Kabat Zinn et.al., and used therapeutically in many social contexts. We will have short periods of silent practice with different meditation supports, starting with the breath. A perfect introduction for those dealing with change or stress, or the simply curious. There will be chairs to sit on (no special postures required!),…
Find out more »Romanesque, Art, Architecture & Design
The Romanesque period represents the first truly European wide international style, since the fall of the Roman Empire. Its spread alongside the expansion of the Roman Catholic Church is no coincidence, as both the Catholic faith and the nascent political ambitions of new nation states combined to create a heady mix of militant Christianity, politics, nationalism and a resurgence of culture. With its origins in the Byzantine, Merovingian, Carolingian, Ottonian and Moorish empires, we shall see how each of these…
Find out more »Much Ado About Nothing: Deception, Darkness & Dogberry
‘I have deceived even your very eyes’. We will explore, through reading and analysis, one of the most popular of Shakespeare’s comedies, Much Ado About Nothing. We will focus on the central theme of deception in the play: in particular the benevolent deception which supports the love story between Beatrice and Benedick, and the malevolent deception which underpins the plot against Hero. We will also consider the play in performance by looking at recent film and television adaptations. Participants will…
Find out more »June 2016
Family History Research Day: Using Dillington’s Computers or Your Own Laptop
If you have hit a brick wall in your family history research or simply need a few pointers in the right direction, this one day workshop will provide you with the opportunity to come along and carry out your own research, whilst receiving guidance and advice from the tutor. A computer will be provided or you are welcome to bring your own laptop. Numbers are limited to ensure that there is plenty of time for each student to be given…
Find out more »Kinky Ukuleles
The songs of ‘The Kinks’ will be the focus for this innovative ukulele workshop run by Sally Vaughan who has delivered a number of popular ukulele courses at Dillington House over the past 2 years. When Ray Davies of ‘The Kinks’ penned his 60s classics he often cited influences from the music hall days of the 1920s when ukulele music was very much in its heyday. The chord progressions and arrangements of Kinks songs therefore lend themselves well to modern…
Find out more »Choosing Plants for Your Borders
This classroom based course, run over three consecutive s, is for those who want no more expensive mistakes through impulse buying. Whether you are planting a border from scratch or trying to improve an established garden, the wealth of plants on offer can be overwhelming. By considering a few simple guidelines, putting plants together to good effect need not be so difficult. This is an enjoyable and informal course on choosing the right plants for your garden and how and…
Find out more »The Roman Army in the West Country
During this day course we will examine why the Roman Army was deployed to the West Country, the role, tactics and distribution of Roman forts, and the different types of Roman soldiers and their equipment. The tutor will bring a range of equipment that is representative of archaeological artefacts found in the West Country including copies of helmets, body armour, weapons and a range of other kit such as clothing, boots, pottery, glassware, a shield, a mess tin and a…
Find out more »Japanese Embroidery
This course is suitable for both experienced stitchers and those new to the subject. New students can either embroider a small motif using traditional threads, fabric and stitches, or if they want to make a larger commitment, make a start on the ten phase learning programme. Established students will be able to continue stitching their current designs. All students are taught individually and will work at their own pace. *There will be a supplement of £20 for course kits if…
Find out more »Copperplate Calligraphy
My aim for the course is that the students will gain a basic understanding of the Copperplate alphabet including the capitals and to gain confidence in writing with a pointed nib. Please bring: Flat board or large piece of cardboard to work on, A3 or A4 smooth paper, straight or angled penholder, any thin ink or tube of gouache to mix, pointed nibs, small jar to mix paint (tiny jam pots are good), ruler and pencil.
Find out more »The Four Seasons in Music and Painting
Our weekend will explore the inspiration painters and composers have drawn from the seasons of the year. The featured artists will include Botticelli, Breughel the Elder, Monet, Turner and Friedrich, while there will be music by Vivaldi, Haydn, Delius, Tchaikovsky and others. Abingworth Hall occupies a country estate that dates back some seven centuries and stands beside its own lake in seven acres of parkland within the tranquil Weald. The hotel is well appointed with more than twenty en suite…
Find out more »THE FOUR SEASONS in Music and Painting
Our weekend will explore the inspiration painters and composers have drawn from the seasons of the year. The featured artists will include Botticelli, Breughel the Elder, Monet, Turner and Friedrich, while there will be music by Vivaldi, Haydn, Delius, Tchaikovsky and others. Abingworth Hall occupies a country estate that dates back some seven centuries and stands beside its own lake in seven acres of parkland within the tranquil Weald. The hotel is well appointed with more than twenty en suite bedrooms. Terry Barfoot writes widely…
Find out more »Japanese Embroidery
This course is suitable for both experienced stitchers and those new to the subject. New students can either embroider a small motif using traditional threads, fabric and stitches, or if they want to make a larger commitment, make a start on the ten phase learning programme. Established students will be able to continue stitching their current designs. All students are taught individually and will work at their own pace. *There will be a supplement of £20 for course kits if…
Find out more »Accordian Jazz Weekend
Come and enjoy yourself while you gain confidence and experience in playing jazz, through practical exploration of some of its more fundamental elements. The course will be centred round a number of practical sessions in which different aspects of playing will be explored and practised. Practical approaches to improvisation will form a significant part of the earlier sessions. Examples of jazz standards, giving scope for differing aspects of our work, will be studied and played through the weekend. Approaches to…
Find out more »Woodcarving
These courses take learners from complete beginners to the very advanced through a carefully planned series of projects covering traditional and modern carving styles such as foliage ornament and frame or architectural mouldings, figure and animal carving in the round, lettercutting and abstract sculpture. Design skills are also included. Learners can enrol on single courses as tasters or join several weekends to develop their skills and ideas. The courses run from Saturday 9.30am until Sunday 4.30pm and are held in…
Find out more »Parchment
This course is suitable for those who already have a basic knowledge of parchment craft techniques, including tracing, embossing and simple perforating. Participants will be able to choose from a selection of patterns for greetings cards, pictures or technique samplers. Although the emphasis will be on the use of grids to create both perforated and embossed lace designs, we will also be covering various colouring techniques.
Find out more »Summer Swing!
Summer is the time for all things light-hearted, so why not spend a day learning some of the Swing Era’s most-memorable numbers in this fun group-singing workshop? With Cole Porter’s Too Darn Hot and the Gershwin brothers’ iconic ‘Summertime’ we’ll explore the rhythmic conventions of swing-feel and the lush textures of jazz harmony. Suitable for male and female voices, some harmony singing experience would be helpful but you don’t need to be able to read music notation.
Find out more »Screen Printing, Stencilling & Stamping on Polymer Clay
During this course we will explore the techniques of screen printing, stencilling and stamping on polymer clay before creating lovely pieces of jewellery or other decorative items. Screen printing - best known for fabric decoration and relatively new to the polymer clay world - creates beautiful effects quickly and easily. Stencilling is similar, but allows other media, such as powders to be applied to the surface of the clay. Stamping adds texture, pattern and pictures to the surface as required.…
Find out more »Discovering English Cathedrals
This introductory course explores the history, architecture and furnishing of Anglican Cathedrals in England. We start by looking at the ways in which cathedrals work and how they differ from parish churches. From the earliest monastic cathedrals to the more recently upgraded parish churches we will look at each one to identify its unique features. It will be a richly illustrated classroom-based course. *There will be a supplement of £35pp for the cost of transport and the 'special' entrance fees.
Find out more »Bobbin Lace: Beginners & Beyond
Have you always wanted to make lace but are worried that it looks complicated? Are you a beginner wishing to continue to develop your skills? Are you already a lace maker but would like to continue with your work or start a new pattern? Help is at hand! This is the ideal course for you. Enjoy a few days developing your lacemaking skills and knowledge. Beginners kit available to purchase from the tutor at a cost of £25.00.
Find out more »Parchment
This course is suitable for those who already have a basic knowledge of parchment craft techniques, including tracing, embossing and simple perforating. Participants will be able to choose from a selection of patterns for greetings cards, pictures or technique samplers. Although the emphasis will be on the use of grids to create both perforated and embossed lace designs, we will also be covering various colouring techniques.
Find out more »Composers in Exile
The weekend will explore a wide variety of music, all of it written by composers who for various reasons were living far from their homelands. Among the composers to be featured are Handel, Stravinsky, Korngold, Rachmaninov, Chopin and Bartók. Sheafhayne Manor is a Grade II listed Elizabethan manor house, commanding wonderful views across the East Devon countryside. Originally a medieval hall, it later became the hunting lodge of Sir Francis Drake. The house has recently been extensively and lovingly refurbished,…
Find out more »Special Clothes
Students will be able to construct garments for special occasions, by using luxurious fabrics. Such as Velvet, Silk etc. And by using more complicated dress patterns. With expert guidance all garments will be made to a high standard and special attention will be given to details and couture finishes. Students will have more confidence using delicate fabrics and more advanced patterns.
Find out more »Patchwork Projects for Summer
Come and join other patchworkers on a weekend of sewing fun. There are lots of projects to choose from. Bags, jelly roll quilts, pin cushions, placemats, table runners and more. Projects for all skill levels or bring along your own project to work on.
Find out more »Bobbin Lace: Beginners & Beyond
Have you always wanted to make lace but are worried that it looks complicated? Are you a beginner wishing to continue to develop your skills? Are you already a lace maker but would like to continue with your work or start a new pattern? Help is at hand! This is the ideal course for you. Enjoy a few days developing your lacemaking skills and knowledge. Beginners kit available to purchase from the tutor at a cost of £25.00.
Find out more »Parchment
This course is suitable for those who already have a basic knowledge of parchment craft techniques, including tracing, embossing and simple perforating. Participants will be able to choose from a selection of patterns for greetings cards, pictures or technique samplers. Although the emphasis will be on the use of grids to create both perforated and embossed lace designs, we will also be covering various colouring techniques.
Find out more »Chinese Brush Painting
This weekend course will study a number of subjects such as flower, bird, fruit, animal, fish or landscape, all taught in the traditional method of demonstration and practice. Learning will continue on Saturday evening with a presentation on painting or travel for example. This course is suitable for both beginners and the more advanced. New learners will be able to see what they may be able to achieve in future courses. Calming music helps to aid concentration while painting.
Find out more »TLC: Tender Loving Care
This is a practical course (non medical, non denominational) for those accompanying or visiting someone at the end of their life. At a time of emotional distress it can be very helpful to be already equipped with an understanding of the stages in dying and how best to offer support. This knowledge may also act as a map to help navigate our own feelings about death. We look at how listening skills and simple acts of kindness can make a great difference to…
Find out more »Read the Russian Alphabet
Are you planning a trip to Russia? Or are you intrigued by a new language challenge? If you want to learn to read the Russian alphabet, this one-day course is for you. We will quickly learn to recognise all 33 letters of the Russian alphabet by using familiar international words. This will be invaluable for any contact with Russia or Russians and will enrich your experience and understanding of the culture.
Find out more »Writing Songs in the Folk Style
This course aims to help develop songwriting skills under the broad banner of ‘folk song’. This will include everything from romantic ballads, social commentary and protest to wherever the muse may lead us! We will be writing collectively at times as well as in small groups or individually, leading to a performance and discussion of our songs on the Sunday afternoon. Please bring along any instruments for accompaniment and if you are a singer then please bring along your voice!…
Find out more »The FM Alexander Technique
On this course you engage with a practical self help approach to promote the health of your spine and prevent unnecessary mental & physical stress in life. This is an opportunity to enjoy your voice and movement with more confidence and greater ease. Thanks to Alexander’s discoveries 100 years ago you will find that aching backs and hunched shoulders don’t have to be the inevitable consequence of modern day living! NB: As this course requires a level of mobility, anyone…
Find out more »Chinese Brush Painting
This weekend course will study a number of subjects such as flower, bird, fruit, animal, fish or landscape, all taught in the traditional method of demonstration and practice. Learning will continue on Saturday evening with a presentation on painting or travel for example. This course is suitable for both beginners and the more advanced. New learners will be able to see what they may be able to achieve in future courses. Calming music helps to aid concentration while painting.
Find out more »Why do we act like that? Understanding each other
Why are some relationships such hard work? Why don’t you understand what I’m saying? Why can’t I say ‘no’? This simple model of communication preferences shows us how to: understand ourselves and others better; grasp what people are really saying; predict behaviour and deal with stress; flex what we do for better communication; get what we want from relationships. Fascinating, simple, life-changing, a ‘light-bulb’ experience!
Find out more »Fabulous and Fearless Free Motion Machine Embroidery
Spend a weekend mastering the art of free motion machine embroidery to create lines, shapes, words, patterns and appliqué designs.
Find out more »Creative Stained Glass
A practical workshop for glass enthusiasts to work on an individual project and complete a decorative panel or window. Improve and develop your skills in designing and working with glass. Guidance will be given in all techniques from cutting to glazing and soldering. Take home a completed panel!
Find out more »Botanical Illustration – Wild Meadow Flowers
We aim to illustrate the wild species abundant at this time of the year. If possible, we will visit them on site, but in any case there will be time to learn how to draw them, compose pictures and use watercolours precisely to produce colourful detailed flower portraits.
Find out more »Paper Cutting & Layered Collage for Beginners
During this day workshop you will be introduced to the main techniques of paper cutting. You will make samples, as well as a beautiful, larger finished piece of your own design. *Materials supplement of £3.00
Find out more »Magnificent Masterpieces 14th Century to the Present Day – Part 1 – The 14th to 16th Century
Suitable for everyone: newcomers to art history, as well as those with a passionate interest in particular periods. Richard will introduce you to the objective, emotional and spiritual manifestations of Western art from the 14th century to the present day, exploring many aspects of paintings and sculptures through an adventure of nearly a thousand years of Western art. Not only will the techniques of fresco, tempera and oil painting be discussed, but also, the mysteries of iconography and symbolism, as…
Find out more »Magnificent Masterpieces 14th Century to the Present Day – Part 2 – The 17th to 21st Century
Suitable for everyone: newcomers to art history, as well as those with a passionate interest in particular periods. Richard will introduce you to the objective, emotional and spiritual manifestations of Western art from the 14th century to the present day, exploring many aspects of paintings and sculptures through an adventure of nearly a thousand years of Western art. Not only will the techniques of fresco, tempera and oil painting be discussed, but also, the mysteries of iconography and symbolism, as…
Find out more »Introduction to Boat Building
Ever wondered what thwarts or cold moulding are? This ‘boat beginners’ course looks at how different boats are shaped and why, terminology, construction methods, materials, propulsion, sails and rigs and rigging. Unusually for the Academy this is a classroom based course but workshop walkabouts and short strolls to the harbour and Cornish Pilot Gig shed to look at boats mean legs will be stretched regularly.
Find out more »Lifelines
Discover the richness and vitality of life drawing in this unique and instinctive course.
Find out more »Hardy: novels into film
Why have films based on Hardy's novels proved so popular, and do they enrich or diminish their originals? We focus especially on Far From the Madding Crowd and Tess of the d'Urbervilles, two of his masterpieces, and consider the strengths and limitations of particular film versions, as well as the whole notion of literary adaptation.
Find out more »Survival and revival: the country house in the 20th century
Country houses rank among our most visited heritage sites, protected by legislation and public demand, yet many houses have been demolished and their collections continue to be sold. This course will question whether the 20th century was one of doom and gloom or one in which country house owners adapted to survive. Key areas to be considered are Country Life magazine, the National Trust, and exhibitions such as The Destruction of the Country House.
Find out more »The masterpieces of French opéra comique
Beginning in the popular entertainments of the early 18th-century summer and winter fairs of Paris, the opéra comique soon developed into a recognisable form of operatic entertainment: a play with music reflecting the lives and ambitions of ordinary people. Soon this type of opera acquired its own theatre, and rapidly became a focal point in French culture, and a riposte to the grandeur and tragedy of grand opera.
Find out more »The medicinal properties of plants
Why do plants have names such as 'allheal' and 'woundwort' and why did we import tons of bark from a South American tree? A look at the historical and present day use of plants in both alternative and mainstream medicine, concentrating on those containing alkaloids, essential oils, mucilages and other chemicals of known medicinal value. The course includes a field visit and a look at the medicinal plants in the garden at Madingley.
Find out more »Cyberpsychology: understanding life in the digital era
We live in the digital world where emerging technologies have infiltrated everyday life. Have you ever wondered how our concept of identity has been redefined and how much influence social media has on your decisions? Come and explore the impact of emerging technologies on human behaviour and the future of humans.
Find out more »Behind the Iron Curtain
The Cold War division of Europe seemed for many years to be a permanent situation, but in the 1980s, a series of remarkable events took place that left each of the formerly communist Eastern European countries moving towards multiparty democracy. This course looks at the history of the Warsaw pact countries, often viewed in the West as a monolithic block that the Soviet Union had re-created in its own image. In the 1980s, the cracks became more obvious and a…
Find out more »Jazz Improvisation
The course includes learning some core repertoire and will examine the structures and techniques used to improvise. This will include ear training, blues scale, 2-5-1 progressions and jazz harmony. Suitable instruments for this course will be brass and woodwind to include trumpet, trombone, alto and tenor saxophone, clarinet, flute. Please enquire if you play another instrument to check suitability. The advised level of playing for this course would be approximately grade 5 and above.
Find out more »Hatha Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness
Enjoy a weekend in the lovely surroundings of Knuston Hall. Heather will share a practical guide to bringing mindfulness into a weekend of Hatha yoga and meditation; breathing techniques and relaxation. There will be an opportunity for free time for walking and socialising, which will send you home feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Find out more »Silk Ribbon Embroidery and 3D Stitches in Thread
Give your embroidery that raised, textured look. You will be delighted and surprised how beautiful and different traditional favourite stitches look when executed in silk ribbon. A technique that was very popular during the reign of Queen Victoria. Everyone is welcome on this course, from the newcomer to the “addict”, come and see how easy and satisfying hand embroidery can be.
Find out more »The story of life on earth: four billion years in seven hours
Through talks and group discussions, we will explore the evolution of life on planet Earth: from the first replicating molecules to the evolution of 'superorganisms'. We will discuss what we mean by 'life' and the key processes that have led to such a bewildering diversity of species that share our planet. This day-school will provide a taster for anyone considering enrolling in Certificate or Diploma courses in evolutionary biology or genetics.
Find out more »Open Day – How a Traditional Book is Made
How a traditional book is made - our annual book skills open day
Find out more »Astronomy days: The life and death of stars
Why do we expect the Sun to keep shining for the next few billion years? What will happen after that? Are we really made of stardust? In our second astronomy day school, we will investigate the science of stars, explore how they form, why they live for so long, and what happens after they die. No previous astronomy experience is needed, and each astronomy day is self-contained so you are welcome to attend one or more.
Find out more »The Delights of Summer in Beads Part 1
Join Stephanie in recreating some of the delights of summer through bead weaving techniques. During the course we may visit the seaside, a stunning garden or even travel further afield. Having fun with colour and texture to produce some stunning jewellery and accessories to keep or give as presents. A really fun course with lots of learning along the way. All materials will be available to purchase from the tutor.
Find out more »Woodcarving Summer School P1
This practical Summer School in traditional woodcarving is open to all and is presented in two parts. Part 1 can be extended by a further two days offering more time to enjoy this creative craft. Individual tuition by demonstration and guidance allows participants to relax and progress at their own pace. An abundance of prepared patterns, designs and woodcarving literature offer inspiration for project ideas. See Woodcarving Summer School Part 2 for further course details. *Materials supplement of £10.00.
Find out more »Drawing for the Terrified
Are you terrified of drawing but have a secret longing to learn how to do it? Then enrol on this course where Richard will guide you through certain processes slowly, gently and step by step. If you follow his 'recipes', you will be amazed at what you will be able to draw. Because you are 'terrified' you will stay with a simple still life for the whole course. The main focus will be upon learning how to SEE what is…
Find out more »Victorian Artists, Their Models & Muses
From Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Elizabeth Siddal, to Lord Frederick Leighton and Dorothy Dene, the work of many Victorian artists was influenced by their models, many of whom became their muses, mistresses or wives. In this course we will investigate the often complex relationships between Victorian artists and their models and celebrate the spectacular works of art resulting from these relationships.
Find out more »Bookbinding – Crossed Structure Binding
This course is intended for all levels from the complete beginner to the more experienced and will take place in a studio that is well equipped for general bookbinding. This course will focus on a technique of non-adhesive binding used widely on the Continent. A useful and flexible style using either paper, leather or leather laminate materials. This is a non-intrusive structure suitable for book artists, conservation or general binding.
Find out more »An Introduction to Russian Language and Culture
Russian is a Slavik language. It is becoming an increasingly popular language to learn in Western countries these days since the end of the Cold War and an interest in Russian culture. The course will help you learn the Cyrillic Russian alphabet and its origins. You will learn basics of writing, reading and common phrases. The course will cover some Russian cultural aspects such as customs, traditions, public holidays, relationships and a little insight into the Russian mentality. All-comers welcome.
Find out more »Let there be light… and there was light
Light is essential for life and growth, so during this creative writing day we shall compare mankind's early belief in its origin with today's theory of the Big Bang. We also use light to describe insight, spiritual revelation and the search for knowledge. We shall use music, study and paintings of light in all its moods as stimuli for writing.
Find out more »News from the Fronts: The Kitchener Divisions and the Battle of the Somme
From Spring 1916 onwards against the backdrop of the battle of Verdun - ‘the Meatgrinder on the Meuse’- Kitchener’s New Army divisions were arriving in France for the Anglo-French offensive on the River Somme. Hopes were high for a break through the German defences. The course will consider in detail the preparations for the battle and how it developed over the summer months.
Find out more »The Making of a Myth: King Arthur, Joseph of Arimathea & Glastonbury
An exploration of the origins of the legends about "the matter of Britain" -the collection of medieval myths and legends associated with King Arthur and the origins of Christianity in Britain, some of which are associated with the west country. We look at any historical foundation of such myths together with their development and elaboration over the centuries.
Find out more »Woodcarving Summer School P2
This practical summer school in the creative craft of woodcarving is open to all and is presented in two parts, see Part 1 for further course details. Beginners start with a simple relief design to familiarise with tools and basic carving techniques before progressing to a more advanced project of their choice. Improvers will be encouraged to develop their skills on more challenging projects, carving in relief or in the round. *Materials supplement of £10.00.
Find out more »The Delights of Summer in Beads Part 2
Join Stephanie in recreating some of the delights of summer through bead weaving techniques. During the course we may visit the seaside, a stunning garden or even travel further afield. Having fun with colour and texture to produce some stunning jewellery and accessories to keep or give as presents. A really fun course with lots of learning along the way. All materials will be available to purchase from the tutor.
Find out more »July 2016
Magical Silk Painting
Silk has a magical, shimmering quality, which together with the richness and vibrancy of colour can be transformed into something really special and unique. You do not have to be an accomplished artist to produce something quite spectacular. This course will introduce you to the absorbing process of painting on silk, and is suitable for complete beginners. With just basic techniques you will create a beautiful silk painting, which you can take home and frame. *A supplement of £12.00 for…
Find out more »An introduction to the history of English
The course will offer an overview of important changes within each period of the history of English at different levels of language, including spelling, grammar and vocabulary. Linguistic changes will be studied in conjunction with historical and cultural events, such as the Norman Conquest or the introduction of printing in England by William Caxton.
Find out more »Reading Classical Latin: the pleasures of Horace
Love, myth, praise of Augustus, fleeing snows, celebration, conquest and old age - all these and more are there to enjoy in Horace's Odes Book 4. Anyone with a solid knowledge of Latin will be able to cope with Horace's poetry. Participants will be encouraged to contribute to translating the text, discussing its contents and style and so enjoy a miscellany of poems.
Find out more »Tracing ancestry using DNA
Where do I come from? In this course, you will learn how scientists are now answering this question at a number of time levels. Palaeontologists explore our distant past with fossils, geneticists find out about our direct ancestors using ancient and modern DNA, and forensic scientists use ancestry tests and parentage tests in their day-to-day casework. The course content spans the past 800,000 years including Neanderthals and the birth of our human species, the origins of the British, and individual…
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