Art Courses
There are a small number of Open Studio occasions each year to view the work. Alternatively, please contact me to arrange a mutually convenient time for your visit.
There are a small number of Open Studio occasions each year to view the work. Alternatively, please contact me to arrange a mutually convenient time for your visit.
ART COURSES SEPTEMBER 2024
Discover Your Own Artist's Identity
Venue: Quaker Meeting Rooms, New Adel Lane, Leeds LS16 6AZ
Day: Monday
Time: 10:00-12:30
Start Date: 20 January 2025
End Date: 31 March 2025
Half Term: 17 February 2025
No. Sessions: 10
Max Number of students 11
Fee: £225
FULL
Venue: Addingham Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Addingham, LS29 0JE
Day: Tuesday
Time: 10:00-12:30
Start Date: 21 January 2025
End Date: 01 April 2025
Half Term: 18 February 2025
No. Sessions: 10
Maximum number of students 12
Fee: £225
COURSE OUTLINE
Aims:
1. To develop our observational skills
2. To develop a personal response
3. To successfully construct paintings
4. To apply painting techniques to a variety of observed subject matter
5. To develop knowledge of colour theory
6. To incorporate mixed media and different paint surfaces
7. To explore develop and apply transferable skills and painting techniques
Development
The key is the development of your own personal work.
In response to numerous requests, the first sessions will be focused on portraits and figure studies, though the application of these skills is relevant to landscape and all other subjects.
As the course progresses, we will explore individual interests using acrylics and mixed media skills in a variety of subject areas.
Each session will include a tutor demonstration.
You will be guided through various drawing and painting techniques.
We will experiment with a range of drawing, mark-making and painting skills.
We will work creatively with a sketchbook and visual ideas in addition to working on more involved finished pieces.
Individual experimental work is encouraged.
This course is suitable for all abilities and is designed to provide a solid working practice that will help you to develop your artwork.
MY TEACHING
I have a long, outstanding record in teaching students of all levels from beginners to post graduates. As a college lecturer I achieved an unbroken annual record of a Grade One - Outstanding Teaching award, recording all strengths, no weaknesses.
Several years ago I left college employment in order to concentrate full time as a professional painter. As I thoroughly enjoy working in the company of my students, sharing creative ideas, research and the exploration of processes, I now incorporate a number of private art courses each year which are listed below.
POSTS IN ADULT HIGHER EDUCATION
Author of the degree Art and Design Enterprise
validated by Leeds Metropolitan University and assessed by The University of Leeds
Degree Course Leader
Degree Moderator
Degree Lecturer
POSTS IN ADULT FURTHER EDUCATION
Deputy Head of Park Lane College Leeds, Faculty of Adult Community Education
Programme Manager of Leeds City College Featherbank Adult Education Centre for Art, Craft & Design
Leeds City College Programme Manager of Art Craft and Design
Leeds City College Curriculum Manager of Art, Craft and Design
City and Guilds College Scheme Co-Ordinator
College Curriculum Outreach and Development Worker
Lecturer of Art and Design
Staff Mentor
Internal Moderator, programme manager and lecturer for OCN; NCFE; C&G; GCSE; AS & A Level
Leeds Metropolitan University WYNAN Recognition Panel for Open College Art Courses
Author of the WYNAN Open College Watercolour Course
Extensive teaching and management experience includes:
Drawing, Painting, Printing, Life Drawing, Historical and Contemporary Art Practice and Critical Studies in the following qualifications:
OCN; WYNAN; ROCN; NOCN; NCFE; C&G; GCSE; AS; A Level; Degree and Post Graduate.
WORKSHOPS AND RESIDENCES
Leeds City Art Gallery 'Portraiture and Portrait Commissions'
Harewood House numerous workshops on Portraiture, Drawing and Watercolours
Artist in Residence in Leeds primary and secondary schools
Staff Development at Elmete Leeds Teachers' Professional Development Centre
Art clubs and Art Societies workshops and demonstrations
TEACHING TESTIMONIALS
"You are inspirational."
G. Bond
“You have been one of the great influences in my life. You have been my inspiration. You are a superb teacher.”
B Milligan
"I have so enjoyed your classes. So much valuable information."
M.S.
"Thank you so much for leading a very enjoyable and informative term. It’s a lovely class full of talented and delightful people." M.R.
"I have found your course both interesting - all the different artists I'm afraid I've never heard of but so fascinating - and learnt so much about acrylics. More than that the other members have made me feel so welcome. Your course is just what I'd been looking for and need."
K.S.
"I have found most beneficial and helpful: The inclusive atmosphere. Very informative practical demonstrations of skills and techniques. Individual support if needed. The encouragement of others. Sharing a space in which everyone is quietly concentrating and getting on with their work. Very purposeful and productive atmosphere created in the sessions. I enjoy working at my level and pace. It is always a very happy, satisfying experience."
J.H.
"Thanks too for a great term of interesting and motivating ideas plus all the support you give."
J.R.
"I have enjoyed all the things that you have taught and have absorbed them into my thinking. It has been really good to have been taught by some one who knows so much about artists modern and traditional." B.W.
“We are very privileged to have a top teacher to share her boundless knowledge and experience of the world of art. As a group we are continually inspired and stretched in ways we could never achieve without the benefit of the class. The value to me as an individual is immense and immeasurable.”
H McQ.
“Geraldine helped me to build a portfolio from nothing and in March 2012 I was offered a place at Leeds College of Art & Design BA Foundation Course. This was due to Geraldine’s dedication, knowledge, enthusiasm and of course talent. I found the lessons enjoyable, inspirational and would have no hesitation in recommending Geraldine for private tuition."
L D.
"Your classes are just great!"
M. S.
"I enjoy the very informal, friendly and supportive atmosphere...the flexible approach...I'm impressed by the fact that requests from the students to look at particular aspects are always followed up - often all prepared and explored the following week."
J. R.
"I learnt something new every week and found the course extremely enjoyable and inspiring.
The course provided lots of very useful information and techniques.
The references to various artists and their work introduced me to many artists I was previously unaware of and led me to research several of them further.
The demonstrations were particularly helpful.
I also like the way you have a flexible approach and introduce techniques which address the needs and interests of the class."
D R.
"I have found your encouragement, feedback and support to be most helpful and beneficial. I love to watch you paint."
E. Hornby
“Inspirational art lessons from a respected and great teacher.”
L G.
“Thank you for the extremely inspiring course. It opened me up to the world of creative colourful paintings.”
A Jacobs,
“May I say how important the art course is to me Challenging, stimulating and fun: - experimenting with different styles and media, studying the works of many diverse artists, gaining knowledge in art history and enjoying lively class discussion on all things topical. I personally have acquired a large circle of like-minded friends through the class.”
P Rayner
“I have been attending art classes for seven years and it has taken this long to find my own artistic voice. This process has been hugely interesting, if sometimes frustrating, and hugely rewarding. The class is part of my life now and provides a wonderful balance to my professional practice. The challenge and support provided by Geraldine and my fellow students are invaluable.”
Prof P Cullen
“As a mature student of x years standing I have not only learnt but enjoyed learning how to enjoy painting in all its various forms. Not only has the course provided an appreciation of how to create but it has occurred in a relaxed atmosphere with students of like mind. This must not be taken that it is all joy and no work but it has been a joy to work with the Art class. I never thought that I would enjoy returning to a centre of learning last visited more years ago than I care to remember but I have.”
J Norris
"I just enjoy the class no matter what is discussed. Because I don’t know what I don’t know, everything is interesting, and everything so far has inspired me to continue working. Nothing has been unsatisfying. The things that I thought I wouldn’t enjoy have been a revelation. Everything is perfect"
R Waxman
"I find your demonstrations useful and interesting. Your comments as you are going round the class often provide food for thought."
J. Nuttgens
"I feel you are skilled at picking out and giving feedback which supports individuals and instructs the group as a whole. I love being inspired and encouraged to explore different media and methods of applying paints."
P. Mobbs
“As a practicing artist I had found after a lull in my practice, through the expert tuition and critique gained in Geraldine Thompson’s class, I gained ideas from the classes and in turn this developed my portfolio. The enthusiasm of both the tutor and members of the class provide both support and encouragement and a good social connection with fellow artists on a regular basis.”
J Williams
"Who needs drugs when highs can be achieved from a tube of paint?!!"
M Bradford
"I've really enjoyed the lessons and found them incredibly useful in helping me improve."
A Turnbull
"Enthusiasm and depth of skill of our tutor. A 'can do' atmosphere of learning, incorporating experimentation and having a go."
W Guest
"Very many thanks for another wonderful year. Huge thanks for your encouragement and inspiration."
A Flowers
"Thank you Geraldine - brilliant as usual."
A Ross
"Thank you for your ongoing support and inspiring ideas."
H Lloyd
"Fantastic class."
H McQueen
"I have loved your art classes. Thank you for your hard work and inspiration."
E Brodin
"A very enjoyable year. Have made all sorts of discoveries."
C
"Had a great time and learnt a lot."
H T
"I love your lessons so much. A big thank you."
S B
"Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Brilliant teaching."
J
"Thank you for all the help and encouragement you give me, especially when I don't step up to it. You see in me things I don't see."
R Harris
"Thank you so much for your encouraging comments, Geraldine, I really felt a 'pat on the back'. It feels good to be able to look at my work and see where improvements could be made. My observational skills are so much sharper these days, both looking at art work and looking at the world around me."
A Glister
"I find the demonstrations both yours and the videos very helpful....."
A.V.
"I found your class very stimulating with a wealth of different ideas and techniques with which I can experiment."
J. B.
"Once again many thanks for a creative, fun and informative year!"
A.F.
"Another excellent year of tutorage!"
A.R.
Discover Your Own Artist's Identity
Venue: Quaker Meeting Rooms, New Adel Lane, Leeds LS16 6AZ
Day: Monday
Time: 10:00-12:30
Start Date: 20 January 2025
End Date: 31 March 2025
Half Term: 17 February 2025
No. Sessions: 10
Max Number of students 11
Fee: £225
FULL
Venue: Addingham Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Addingham, LS29 0JE
Day: Tuesday
Time: 10:00-12:30
Start Date: 21 January 2025
End Date: 01 April 2025
Half Term: 18 February 2025
No. Sessions: 10
Maximum number of students 12
Fee: £225
COURSE OUTLINE
Aims:
1. To develop our observational skills
2. To develop a personal response
3. To successfully construct paintings
4. To apply painting techniques to a variety of observed subject matter
5. To develop knowledge of colour theory
6. To incorporate mixed media and different paint surfaces
7. To explore develop and apply transferable skills and painting techniques
Development
The key is the development of your own personal work.
In response to numerous requests, the first sessions will be focused on portraits and figure studies, though the application of these skills is relevant to landscape and all other subjects.
As the course progresses, we will explore individual interests using acrylics and mixed media skills in a variety of subject areas.
Each session will include a tutor demonstration.
You will be guided through various drawing and painting techniques.
We will experiment with a range of drawing, mark-making and painting skills.
We will work creatively with a sketchbook and visual ideas in addition to working on more involved finished pieces.
Individual experimental work is encouraged.
This course is suitable for all abilities and is designed to provide a solid working practice that will help you to develop your artwork.
MY TEACHING
I have a long, outstanding record in teaching students of all levels from beginners to post graduates. As a college lecturer I achieved an unbroken annual record of a Grade One - Outstanding Teaching award, recording all strengths, no weaknesses.
Several years ago I left college employment in order to concentrate full time as a professional painter. As I thoroughly enjoy working in the company of my students, sharing creative ideas, research and the exploration of processes, I now incorporate a number of private art courses each year which are listed below.
POSTS IN ADULT HIGHER EDUCATION
Author of the degree Art and Design Enterprise
validated by Leeds Metropolitan University and assessed by The University of Leeds
Degree Course Leader
Degree Moderator
Degree Lecturer
POSTS IN ADULT FURTHER EDUCATION
Deputy Head of Park Lane College Leeds, Faculty of Adult Community Education
Programme Manager of Leeds City College Featherbank Adult Education Centre for Art, Craft & Design
Leeds City College Programme Manager of Art Craft and Design
Leeds City College Curriculum Manager of Art, Craft and Design
City and Guilds College Scheme Co-Ordinator
College Curriculum Outreach and Development Worker
Lecturer of Art and Design
Staff Mentor
Internal Moderator, programme manager and lecturer for OCN; NCFE; C&G; GCSE; AS & A Level
Leeds Metropolitan University WYNAN Recognition Panel for Open College Art Courses
Author of the WYNAN Open College Watercolour Course
Extensive teaching and management experience includes:
Drawing, Painting, Printing, Life Drawing, Historical and Contemporary Art Practice and Critical Studies in the following qualifications:
OCN; WYNAN; ROCN; NOCN; NCFE; C&G; GCSE; AS; A Level; Degree and Post Graduate.
WORKSHOPS AND RESIDENCES
Leeds City Art Gallery 'Portraiture and Portrait Commissions'
Harewood House numerous workshops on Portraiture, Drawing and Watercolours
Artist in Residence in Leeds primary and secondary schools
Staff Development at Elmete Leeds Teachers' Professional Development Centre
Art clubs and Art Societies workshops and demonstrations
TEACHING TESTIMONIALS
"You are inspirational."
G. Bond
“You have been one of the great influences in my life. You have been my inspiration. You are a superb teacher.”
B Milligan
"I have so enjoyed your classes. So much valuable information."
M.S.
"Thank you so much for leading a very enjoyable and informative term. It’s a lovely class full of talented and delightful people." M.R.
"I have found your course both interesting - all the different artists I'm afraid I've never heard of but so fascinating - and learnt so much about acrylics. More than that the other members have made me feel so welcome. Your course is just what I'd been looking for and need."
K.S.
"I have found most beneficial and helpful: The inclusive atmosphere. Very informative practical demonstrations of skills and techniques. Individual support if needed. The encouragement of others. Sharing a space in which everyone is quietly concentrating and getting on with their work. Very purposeful and productive atmosphere created in the sessions. I enjoy working at my level and pace. It is always a very happy, satisfying experience."
J.H.
"Thanks too for a great term of interesting and motivating ideas plus all the support you give."
J.R.
"I have enjoyed all the things that you have taught and have absorbed them into my thinking. It has been really good to have been taught by some one who knows so much about artists modern and traditional." B.W.
“We are very privileged to have a top teacher to share her boundless knowledge and experience of the world of art. As a group we are continually inspired and stretched in ways we could never achieve without the benefit of the class. The value to me as an individual is immense and immeasurable.”
H McQ.
“Geraldine helped me to build a portfolio from nothing and in March 2012 I was offered a place at Leeds College of Art & Design BA Foundation Course. This was due to Geraldine’s dedication, knowledge, enthusiasm and of course talent. I found the lessons enjoyable, inspirational and would have no hesitation in recommending Geraldine for private tuition."
L D.
"Your classes are just great!"
M. S.
"I enjoy the very informal, friendly and supportive atmosphere...the flexible approach...I'm impressed by the fact that requests from the students to look at particular aspects are always followed up - often all prepared and explored the following week."
J. R.
"I learnt something new every week and found the course extremely enjoyable and inspiring.
The course provided lots of very useful information and techniques.
The references to various artists and their work introduced me to many artists I was previously unaware of and led me to research several of them further.
The demonstrations were particularly helpful.
I also like the way you have a flexible approach and introduce techniques which address the needs and interests of the class."
D R.
"I have found your encouragement, feedback and support to be most helpful and beneficial. I love to watch you paint."
E. Hornby
“Inspirational art lessons from a respected and great teacher.”
L G.
“Thank you for the extremely inspiring course. It opened me up to the world of creative colourful paintings.”
A Jacobs,
“May I say how important the art course is to me Challenging, stimulating and fun: - experimenting with different styles and media, studying the works of many diverse artists, gaining knowledge in art history and enjoying lively class discussion on all things topical. I personally have acquired a large circle of like-minded friends through the class.”
P Rayner
“I have been attending art classes for seven years and it has taken this long to find my own artistic voice. This process has been hugely interesting, if sometimes frustrating, and hugely rewarding. The class is part of my life now and provides a wonderful balance to my professional practice. The challenge and support provided by Geraldine and my fellow students are invaluable.”
Prof P Cullen
“As a mature student of x years standing I have not only learnt but enjoyed learning how to enjoy painting in all its various forms. Not only has the course provided an appreciation of how to create but it has occurred in a relaxed atmosphere with students of like mind. This must not be taken that it is all joy and no work but it has been a joy to work with the Art class. I never thought that I would enjoy returning to a centre of learning last visited more years ago than I care to remember but I have.”
J Norris
"I just enjoy the class no matter what is discussed. Because I don’t know what I don’t know, everything is interesting, and everything so far has inspired me to continue working. Nothing has been unsatisfying. The things that I thought I wouldn’t enjoy have been a revelation. Everything is perfect"
R Waxman
"I find your demonstrations useful and interesting. Your comments as you are going round the class often provide food for thought."
J. Nuttgens
"I feel you are skilled at picking out and giving feedback which supports individuals and instructs the group as a whole. I love being inspired and encouraged to explore different media and methods of applying paints."
P. Mobbs
“As a practicing artist I had found after a lull in my practice, through the expert tuition and critique gained in Geraldine Thompson’s class, I gained ideas from the classes and in turn this developed my portfolio. The enthusiasm of both the tutor and members of the class provide both support and encouragement and a good social connection with fellow artists on a regular basis.”
J Williams
"Who needs drugs when highs can be achieved from a tube of paint?!!"
M Bradford
"I've really enjoyed the lessons and found them incredibly useful in helping me improve."
A Turnbull
"Enthusiasm and depth of skill of our tutor. A 'can do' atmosphere of learning, incorporating experimentation and having a go."
W Guest
"Very many thanks for another wonderful year. Huge thanks for your encouragement and inspiration."
A Flowers
"Thank you Geraldine - brilliant as usual."
A Ross
"Thank you for your ongoing support and inspiring ideas."
H Lloyd
"Fantastic class."
H McQueen
"I have loved your art classes. Thank you for your hard work and inspiration."
E Brodin
"A very enjoyable year. Have made all sorts of discoveries."
C
"Had a great time and learnt a lot."
H T
"I love your lessons so much. A big thank you."
S B
"Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Brilliant teaching."
J
"Thank you for all the help and encouragement you give me, especially when I don't step up to it. You see in me things I don't see."
R Harris
"Thank you so much for your encouraging comments, Geraldine, I really felt a 'pat on the back'. It feels good to be able to look at my work and see where improvements could be made. My observational skills are so much sharper these days, both looking at art work and looking at the world around me."
A Glister
"I find the demonstrations both yours and the videos very helpful....."
A.V.
"I found your class very stimulating with a wealth of different ideas and techniques with which I can experiment."
J. B.
"Once again many thanks for a creative, fun and informative year!"
A.F.
"Another excellent year of tutorage!"
A.R.