I always enjoy running workshops at Hawkwood, which I have now done for several years. My art is about responding to the beauty of the world around us, and Hawkwood's beautiful grounds provide an ideal setting for this. With such varied subjects in one location—the colourful walled garden, landscapes across the five valleys, ponds, and streams—there's something to inspire everyone.
Hawkwood has an atmosphere that nurtures creativity, allowing for total immersion in the subject and process. Last summer, Hawkwood was the first workshop I ran after lockdown, and it felt like a safe space where we could go ahead with physical distancing while maintaining a social atmosphere.
Most of my art begins with drawing and mark-making in a sketchbook, and I aim to pass this process on to my students, using a wide range of media. It has been wonderful that, by popular demand, the workshop has now extended to two days, which allows for more individual attention. I strive to capture the essence of light, colour, and character, working with different media to keep the work fresh and lively. It’s not about the tools but how you communicate what you feel, think, and see.
About Alison
Alison studied graphic design and illustration in London in the '80s and had a successful career in design before returning to her passion for drawing and painting. Her work is sold worldwide and has been published on a range of products, including an exclusive line for The National Trust.
Follow Alison on Instagram @alisonvickeryartist and Facebook at Alison Vickery Art.