Description
The Art of Observation is a six-week online course about looking more closely, noticing more, and using what we see to deepen our own creative practice.
Each week we will use works from art history as a starting point for exploring different ways of seeing. We will look at how artists have observed light, colour, space, objects, pattern and the world around them, then consider what those approaches might offer us in our own work.
This is not a conventional art history course, and you do not need any previous knowledge. Art history is the lens, and the focus is on attention: what we notice, what we overlook, how assumptions affect what we see, and how closer observation can change the way we paint, draw, photograph or write.
The course includes discussion, close looking and simple observational exercises during and between sessions. You will not be expected to produce finished work, and the course is suitable for artists, writers and photographers working at any stage.
Places are limited to 12 to allow time for discussion, questions and shared observation.
Live on Zoom over six Wednesday evenings - 13 January to 17 February 2027, 7.30 to 9.00 pm GMT.
The Art of Observation also makes a thoughtful Christmas gift for an artist, writer, photographer or simply someone who is curious about the world around them.
Agenda
13 January: Looking
How attention changes what we see and what we miss. Preparation: Bring a notebook or sketchbook and something to write or draw with.
20 January: Light and Colour
Using art history to explore perception, atmosphere and visual attention. Preparation: You may be asked to bring one or two simple items from home, and you will be told at the end of the previous session.
27 January: Space and Composition
How framing, distance, and selection shape what we notice. Preparation: Notebook or sketchbook. A phone or camera may be useful but is not essential.
3 February: Pattern, Structure and Rhythm
How repeated forms, movement, and visual relationships affect how we look. Preparation: Bring your usual notebook or sketchbook. Any additional materials will be simple things you are likely to have already and you will be told about these in the previous session.
10 February: Objects and the Everyday
How ordinary things become significant through sustained attention. Preparation: We'll send a short observation prompt beforehand.
17 February: Attention in Practice
Bringing the course together and considering how deeper observation can change the way we paint, draw, write or photograph. Preparation: You will be asked to bring one simple object for our final observation exercise. Details will be sent beforehand.
Materials
No specialist art materials are required. A notebook or sketchbook and a pen or pencil will be useful throughout. Any additional materials or objects needed for individual sessions will be inexpensive, easily available, and advised in advance.
FAQs
- Do I need any knowledge of art history?
No. The course uses works from art history to explore observation and attention, but you do not need any prior knowledge.
- Do I need to be an artist?
No. The course is designed for artists, writers and photographers, but it is also suitable for anyone interested in looking more closely and developing their creative attention.
- Do I need any special materials?
No specialist materials are required. A notebook or sketchbook and a pen or pencil will be useful. Any additional materials or objects needed for individual sessions will be simple and will be advised in advance.
- Is the course recorded?
No. The Art of Observation is designed as a live, small-group experience, so sessions will not be recorded. - What happens if I miss a session?
If you miss a week, we will send a short summary or prompt so you can continue with the course. But do not worry about sending an email to hello@gaelhillyard.com if you have any issues - I am sure we can work around it somehow!
- How is the course delivered?
Live on Zoom over six Wednesday evenings. Joining instructions will be emailed before the first session, and the same Zoom link will be used throughout.
- Can I buy the course as a gift?
Yes. If you are buying the course for someone else, book a place as usual, then email me at hello@gaelhillyard.com. I will send you a personalised gift certificate that you can print or forward to the recipient.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
