Oscar-Claude Monet was a French painter, a founder of French Impressionist painting and the most consistent and prolific practitioner of the movement's philosophy of expressing perceptions before nature, especially as applied to plein air landscape painting In this gently guided session we'll try out some of the techniques that the great artists used to define their unique styles. We'll aim to replicate one of their classic works. We may choose a whole painting or a section to complete and you will enjoy an evening creating something similar to a great master! Sun 22nd Nov 7pm - Waterlilies What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible ​ Acrylic Sessions (such as Paint Like...): Acrylic Paint - Primary Colours plus black and white (we will guide for colour mixing) Brushes - As a basic rule you will just need a range three or four different sized brushes, small, medium and large Brush examples (but not definitive) Flat Brush (1/2 inch or larger), Round Brush (No2 and No4 and No8) Canvas or Canvas Board or Cardboard (prepared with white paint) in terms of size, the choice is yours, but as a guide A4 paper size or bigger ​ Watercolour: Watercolour set that includes primary colours with black and white A range of brushes as above Watercolour paper or a thicker paper (to absorb the paint) ​ For both: You'll need a pot of water, a cloth and a smile! Tutor - Liddy graduated from Derby University in 2005 after gaining a BA Hons Degree in Illustration. She completed her PGCE before embarking on a 10 year secondary school art teaching career in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. She is currently undertaking a course in the History of Art. Liddy left teaching to start her own business Something Less Boring in 2017 to bring art and sport to a wider audience Liddy lives in Buckinghamshire delivering art and creative drawing workshops as well as relaxing Sip & Paint evenings. She also produces contemporary abstract art and papercut work, undertaking commissions too.

The Old White Lion Pub at Wicken offers a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, whether you're visiting in the cosy winter months or enjoying the bright, beautiful garden in the summer, catering to all. It's family and dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for gatherings of all kinds. Our pub/cafe art workshops are an ideal way for beginners or improvers to enjoy an evening of creativity as well as learning a range of techniques in a warm welcoming environment You'll be guided through by our very friendly, and knowledgeable art tutor Nicole. You are free to take as much guidance as you like, but we certainly won't restrict your creative flair By the end of the evening, you will have some new skills and your own piece of wall worthy art. (also 10% off drinks prices at the bar for artists!) Mon 19th Jan 6.45pm - Max the Black Lab Mon 9th Feb 7.30pm - Biro Peacock Mon 9th March 7.30pm - Silver Birch Tues 14th April 7.30pm - Puffins Tues 26th May 7.30pm - Anyone for Cocktails? Tues 23rd June 7.30pm - Giant Pandas Tues 21st July 7.30pm - Pop Art Cow Tues 18th Aug 7.30pm - Watercolour Wildflowers Tues 22nd Sept 7.30pm - Coastal Meadow Tues 20th Oct 7.30pm - The Blue Dress Tues 10th Nov 7.30pm - Autumn Leaves Themes are subject to change Our events are recommended for anyone over the age of 14 . However, please advise in the booking notes us if you are booking for anyone under the age of 18 as each venue has different licensing rules. Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. Liddy taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that Liddy has taught close to 500 online art sessions! "Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured." Super organised Nicole has been running art sessions with Something Less Boring since early 2024 with well over 50 face to face art events under her belt she provides friendly gentle support in her guided sessions, with packed toolbox of very useful creative tips and tricks to help you improve your skills.

Join Liddy as she guides you to complete an acrylic painting based on a single photograph What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible Acrylic paint - primary colours plus black and white A small selection of brushes - retail brush, medium round, flat brush med/large Canvas, canvasboard, cardboard or non absorbant paper - approximately A4 size Pot of water Pencil Cloth If you’d like to paint in a different medium than the session is advertised as, please mention to Liddy at the start of the Zoom meeting and she will provide the additional guidance About the tutor: Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. After attaining her university degree in Illustration in 2005, Liddy then taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that she has taught close to 500 online art sessions In her own words: "From as long as I can remember I have always dreamt about being an artist and illustrator. My passion has always been for art and I have always enjoyed being creative. Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured."

During this day course at The White Hart in Sherington we will introduce and practice a wide range of watercolour techniques then move on to applying them in a selection of practice works We'll cover equipment, preparation, resources, sourcing materials and of course techniques, tips and tricks. Lunch included Wed 4th Nov 10am (Lunch not included) Wed 24th March 10.30am (Lunch included) The small group course is designed for beginners and improvers, but no experience is expected. We will provide all the materials you will need and as always gently guided in Liddy's relaxed style. Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. Liddy taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that Liddy has taught close to 500 online art sessions In her own words: "From as long as I can remember I have always dreamt about being an artist and illustrator. My passion has always been for art and I have always enjoyed being creative. Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured."

Come along to the Royal George, Stevington and join us for an easy going approach to art - after two hours of creativity and guidance from Liddy go home with your own "wall ready" art work. Wed 14th Jan 7.30pm - Snowy Cottage Wed 29th April 7.30pm - Pop Art Cow Wed 8th July 7.30pm - Tuscany Wed 14th Oct 7.30pm - Autumn Leaves Our pub/cafe art workshops are an ideal way for beginners or improvers to enjoy an evening of creativity aswell as learning a range of techniques in a warm welcoming environment You'll be guided through by our very friendly, and knowledgeble art tutor, Liddy. You are free to take as much guidance as you like, but we certainly won't restrict your creative flair By the end of the evening, you will have some new skills and your own piece of wall worthy art. Please arrive around 10 minutes before the event begins Our events are recommended for anyone over the age of 14 . However, please advise in the booking notes us if you are booking for anyone under the age of 18 as each venue has different licensing rules. About your tutor: Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. Liddy taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that Liddy has taught close to 500 online art sessions! In her own words: "From as long as I can remember I have always dreamt about being an artist and illustrator. My passion has always been for art and I have always enjoyed being creative. Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured."

Coffee and cake and creativity. We provide all the materials and equipment too 2026 Fri 9th Jan 7pm - Snowy Cottage (White Hart, Sherington) Fri 6th Feb 7pm - The Red Squirrel (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Fri 6th March 7pm - Watercolour Wildflowers (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Fri 10th April 7pm - Pop Art Cow (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Fri 1st May 7pm - The Blue Dress (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Fri 5th June 7pm - A Coastal Meadow (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Wed 3rd Jul 7pm - The Foothills of Tuscany (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Fri 7th Aug 7pm - A Summer Storm (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) SOLD OUT Fri 2nd Oct 7pm - Autumn Leaves (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) Fri 6th Nov 7.pm - The Nuthatch (Coffee Crowd, Newport Pagnell) These art workshops are an ideal way for beginners or improvers to enjoy an evening of creativity aswell as learning a range of techniques in a warm welcoming environment You'll be guided through by our very friendly, and knowledgeble art tutor, Liddy. You are free to take as much guidance as you like, but we certainly won't restrict your creative flair Please arrive around 10 minutes before the event begins By the end of the evening, you will have some new skills and your own piece of wall worthy art. Our events are recommended for anyone over the age of 14 . However, please advise in the booking notes us if you are booking for anyone under the age of 18 as each venue has different licensing rules. About the Tutor: Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. Liddy taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that Liddy has taught close to 500 online art sessions In her own words: "From as long as I can remember I have always dreamt about being an artist and illustrator. My passion has always been for art and I have always enjoyed being creative. Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured."

Pablo Picasso regarded him as a "mother hovering over," Henri Matisse as "father to us all." “Painting from nature is not copying the object, it is realizing one’s sensations.” Sun 20th Dec 7pm - Mont Sainte Victoire 1904-06 approx In this gently guided session we'll try out some of the techniques that the great artists used to define their unique styles. We'll aim to replicate one of their classic works. We may choose a whole painting or a section to complete and you will enjoy an evening creating something similar to a great master! What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible ​ Materials: Acrylic paints, primary colours plus black and white Flat brush if available (even a small decorating brush) You'll also need a pot of water, a cloth and a smile!

Sir Quentin Saxby Blake is an English cartoonist, caricaturist, illustrator and children's writer. He has illustrated over 300 books, including 18 written by Roald Dahl, which are among his most popular works Mon 28th Sept 7pm - Grimble Mon 14th Dec 7.30pm - The BIG Snowman In this gently guided session we'll try out some of the techniques that the great artists used to define their unique styles. We'll aim to replicate one of their classic works. We may choose a whole painting or a section to complete and you will enjoy an evening creating something similar to a great master! What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible ​ ​ Watercolour: Watercolour set that includes primary colours with black and white A range of brushes as above Watercolour paper or a thicker paper (to absorb the paint) ​ For both: You'll need a pot of water, a cloth and a smile!

Join Liddy to paint Liddy's seasonal watercolour "Into the Woods". Guided step on Zoom, perfect for beginners and improvers alike What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible Watercolour paints to include primary colours plus black and white A small selection of brushes to include a detail brush Watercolour paper A pot of water Cloth Pencil and eraser (if you want to join us with acrylics, please feel free, just mention it to Liddy at the beginning of the meeting so she can help with additional guidance) ​ About the tutor: Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. Liddy taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that Liddy has taught close to 500 online art sessions In her own words: "From as long as I can remember I have always dreamt about being an artist and illustrator. My passion has always been for art and I have always enjoyed being creative. Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured."

Henri Matisse was a French artist, leader of the Fauve group, regarded as one of the great formative figures in 20th-century art, a master of the use of colour and form to convey emotional expression. In this online session we'll attempt to paint one of his works, gently guided by Liddy Sun 14th June 7pm - View from the Window Sun 23rd August 7pm - Collioure en Aout Sun 1st November 7pm - Goldfish What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible Acrylic paints in primary colours (watercolour and poster paints can be used too, please let Liddy know in the meeting if you want guidance for these) Brush examples (but not definitive) Flat Brush (1/2 inch or larger), Round Brush (No2 and No4 and No8) Canvas or Canvas Board or Cardboard (prepared with white paint) in terms of size, the choice is yours, but as a guide A4 paper size or bigger You'll need a pot of water, a cloth and a smile!

Art at Saxby's Cider Farm 2026 Sat 10th Jan 10.30am - Boats in the Harbour Sat 14th Feb 10.30am - Sheep Sat 14th Mar 10.30am - Olive Oil Sat 11th Apr 10.30am - Puffins Sat 9th May 10.30am - Oranges Sat 13th June 10.30am - Elephant Sat 11th July 10.30am - Rubber Plant Sat 8th August 10.30am - Giant Panda Sat 19th Sept 10.30am - Watercolour Pop Art Cow Sat 10th Oct 10.30am - Funghi Sat 7th November 10.30am - Wet & Windy (while we try our best to maintain this schedule, themes may be subject to change) Deep in the Northamptonshire countryside the fab people at Saxby's Cider Farm have been working hard to develop their Courtyard into a unique venue, both covered and open air it's a lovely space for creativity. Our aim is to put on some relaxed art sessions on Saturday mornings that are open to all. Please be aware it can be a little chilly in the winter months and there are blankets available, but warm clothes are advised. We'll provide all the art materials and guidance you'll need We encourage you to bring along some refreshment and and enjoy a couple of hours art with us, The Farm Shop will be open after the morning's creativity for cider purchases. Children must be accompanied by an age appropriate adult About our art activities. You'll be guided by our very friendly, and knowledgeable art tutor, Liddy. You are free to take as much guidance as you like, but we certainly won't restrict your creative flair. As always our style is relaxed and enjoyable and open to all abilities Our events and workshops are recommended for anyone over the age of 14. However, please advise in the booking notes us if you are booking for anyone under the age of 18 as each venue has different licensing rules. (please arrive 15 minutes before departure time) Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a degree qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. Liddy taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages

Join Liddy online to paint delicate wildflowers in this gently guided watercolour art class. What do I need? We try to keep the requirements very simple to ensure the sessions are as accessible as possible For this Watercolour session: Watercolour set/paints that includes primary colours with black and white Coloured Pencil Crayons Optional - Watercolour Pencils A range of brushes as above Optional - a black drawing pen Watercolour paper or a thicker paper (to absorb the paint) For Acrylic sessions: Acrylic paints that include primary colours plus black and white A selection of three brushes – flat brush, medium round brush and a detail brush will suffice Canvas, canvas board or cardboard (primed with white paint) We usually work to approximately A4 size, but feel free to use whatever is your preference You’ll also need a pot(s) of water and a cloth or kitchen towel If you’d like to paint in a different medium than the session is advertised as, please mention to Liddy at the start of the Zoom meeting and she will provide the additional guidance About the tutor: Liddy is the creative force and main tutor with Something Less Boring. She is a qualified Illustrator and also a qualified teacher. After attaining her university degree in Illustration in 2005, Liddy then taught art for over 10 years at secondary school level before leaving to found Something Less Boring in 2017 with the aim of bringing art and sport to all ages regardless of ability in a fun, creative and inclusive way. Since April 2020 we estimate that she has taught close to 500 online art sessions In her own words: "From as long as I can remember I have always dreamt about being an artist and illustrator. My passion has always been for art and I have always enjoyed being creative. Some of my fondest childhood memories are those spent with my siblings creating stories, drawing illustrations and making books. I guess it was from here that a profound love for all things creative was born and nurtured."