Lilac Bushes in the Style of Van Gogh

Lilac Bushes in the Style of Van Gogh
Guest Artist Workshop with Mel
at The Art Cabin, Coolings Garden Centre, Knockholt, Kent.
 
Join guest artist Mel for a richly expressive painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s Lilac Bush (1889), painted during his stay at Saint-Rémy and now housed in the Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg.
 
Created within the first month of Van Gogh admitting himself to the asylum at Saint-Rémy, this remarkable painting reflects the artist’s search for peace, calm and healing through nature.
 
Dominated by a magnificent lilac tree bursting with violet blooms beneath a deep blue sky, the composition draws the eye gently along a pathway towards the distant horizon.
 
In this inspiring class, we will explore Van Gogh’s wonderfully energetic and impressionistic painting techniques — expressive brushstrokes, varying paint thicknesses, and touches of impasto that bring movement and life to the surface. We’ll study his stunning combinations of blues, yellows and complementary greens, learning how colour and mark-making can create emotion, atmosphere and vibrancy within a painting.
 
Mel will guide you step-by-step through the process, helping you loosen your brushwork, embrace texture and develop confidence in expressive painting techniques. Whether you are new to painting or looking to expand your artistic style, this workshop offers a relaxed and creative space to experiment and enjoy the process.
 
Class Date & Time
Tuesday 9th June
10.00am – 12.00pm
 
Held in the peaceful setting of The Art Cabin, tucked within the Craft Village behind Arthurs Café at Coolings Garden Centre, this workshop is limited to just 8 students, allowing for plenty of individual guidance and support.
 
While refreshments are not provided during the session, Coolings offers a wonderful on-site café and artisan bakery — both highly recommended for a pre-class coffee or leisurely lunch afterwards.
 
The award-winning garden centre itself is a beautiful destination to explore, with inspiring planting displays, independent shops and creative spaces to enjoy throughout your visit.
 
Location:
The Art Cabin
Craft Village behind Arthurs Café
Coolings Garden Centre