Art Afloat

Imagine painting and sketching while cruising the beautiful River Thames on our vintage 17m Dutch Barge.   Our MD, Roy May, an amateur watercolour artists has made this a reality.  Recently converted, 'Le Coq' is equipped to provide a comfortable space for painting, both inside or out.  The barge is suitable for small intimate groups of up to eight, and all levels, including total beginners.

Your tutor will be an established artist and experienced teacher, with a relaxed teaching style creating an enjoyable friendly atmosphere. With engagement and enthusiasm they will inspire and guide both beginners and the more experienced student throughout the day.

Bring your usual watercolour and sketching materials.  Easels are not appropriate but sketching boards will be provided  on-board if required.  If you are a beginner please don't worry about bringing anything we will provide the materials for your day.

A typical course might include pencil and watercolour sketching with the emphasis on producing quick rough sketches whilst we are underway in the morning, then after a light lunch you can finish the mornings work or start a new view. The day is designed to allow flexibility to the artist or beginner, thereby promoting creativity.  The reaches of the Thames that we will cover during the day and the beauty of the passing scenery can only be an inspiration.  The interesting buildings, the wildlife, the hustle and bustle of the locks, the other craft on the River – so much to choose from. 

We will provide tea and coffee, morning and afternoon. Lunch which is also included will typically be artisan bread, cold meats, cheese, olives, salad, a glass of wine, fruit juice or water. Our boat is fully equipped with all relevant safety equipment and is skippered by a fully qualified crew, invariably Roy himself who cannot resist the opportunity for a few quick sketches during coffee break and lunch. 

You may wish to spend some time on the fore or aft deck of the boat so please dress accordingly for the weather, what we would ask is that you wear soft soled shoes. 

Gift vouchers are available and groups with or without their own tutors are welcomed by arrangement.  Do give us a ring to discuss your particular requirements, our aim is to make your day as enjoyable and informative as possible.

Martha Alexander from Artists & Illustrators magazine joined a group for the day, read her article here:
  Artists & Illustrators article.pdf 

 Review_of_Art_Afloat_courses_in_Leisure_Painter_Summer_2012.pdf

Course cost:         £85.00 per person

Timings:                0930hrs to approximately 1700hrs daily

Course dates:       

Please telephone us on 01628 474960 for further dates

Booking form:

Art_Afloat_Booking_form_01.06.13.pdf