Getting started with mixed media sketching can feel intimidating, but prepping your backgrounds first is my secret weapon for loosening up and inviting creativity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating playful, layered surfaces for your sketches.

This month we took our paints out to the stunning @stemandgreen flower field, where dahlias stole the show. With their flamboyant shapes, endless colours and playful textures, they were the perfect subject to explore in paint.

Hampshire Open Studios 2025 at Colour Factory Studios in Winchester was a celebration of creativity, community, and local talent. From student exhibitions and mixed-media artwork to live demos and gallery displays, visitors experienced the energy, colour, and buzz that make our studios a hub for Winchester’s art scene.

Struggling to break free from rigid drawing habits? These three fun techniques—blind contour, upside-down drawing, and using your non-dominant hand—will help you loosen up, improve observation, and boost creativity. Give them a try and see your artwork transform!