Sketchbook to Series
A six-part course from inspiration to exhibition
Join me for a focused and supportive sketchbook course designed to help you develop a cohesive, themed collection of work. Over six, monthly sessions, you’ll be guided through the creative process - from collecting research and generating ideas, to refining your direction and curating a small body of finished artwork that will be exhibited at the end of the course at Creative Melbourne Gallery in South Derbyshire.
Each participant will receive a goody bag including a sketchbook (landscape or portrait, with an option of two sizes), pencil, glue stick, and scissors - plus a few surprise extras to inspire and support your process throughout the course.
Working with your sketchbook as a tool for exploration, planning and reflection, you’ll learn how to build visual consistency, tell the story behind your work, and prepare for exhibiting your final pieces. Along the way, you’ll gain practical advice on presentation, pricing, marketing and creating a shared momentum towards a celebratory group exhibition.
Whether you're developing a personal project or pushing your practice forward, this course will give you the structure, focus and encouragement to turn your sketchbook into a series.
Sketchbook to Series
Early Bird Price £255.00
(Until 31st March)
'Thank you for all your help and advice during the last 6 months. Sketchbook to Series is a brilliant course, I'm so pleased with what I've achieved and hope to experiment more in the future.'
'It feels amazing knowing i can do this, I can deliver work on a theme I am connected with. I am so pleased I took the course, I really needed it. Thank you Jenny, you've been an amazing teacher.'
'Thank you for creating this course, for all your encouraging words and bringing such a wonderful creative group together - I am excited to see it continue to grow from here!'
WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
Are you unsure how to get started with choosing a theme to tie a collection together?
Do you have lots of creative starts but find it hard to build a cohesive body of work?
Are you looking for structure, support, and a clear goal to focus your artistic practice?
Sketchbook to Series is designed for artists and creatives who want to move from scattered ideas to a unified body of work. If you've ever felt stuck in the research phase, unsure how to develop your work into a series, or lacking the momentum to finish what you started - this course will give you the tools and guidance you need.
Through six structured sessions, you’ll:
• Build a habit of using your sketchbook with purpose and clarity
• Develop a strong theme and visual identity for your work
• Gain confidence in refining and curating a series
• Learn practical tips for exhibiting, pricing, and promoting your work
• Be part of a creative community with a shared goal
• Work towards a real deadline: a final group exhibition to celebrate your progress
By the end of the course, you’ll not only have a meaningful collection of finished pieces - you’ll have a clearer understanding of your creative process and how to take your ideas forward with confidence.
Why choose to work with me?
1. Decades of Sketchbook Experience
With over 25 years of dedicated sketchbook practice, I’ve learned how to make these visual journals work hard - not only a space for exploration, but as structured tools for reflection, development and planning. I’ll share the methods I’ve developed to help you get results too.
2. Exhibiting Artist
I understand what it takes to create and exhibit a cohesive body of work. Having exhibited in numerous group and solo shows, and worked as a curator and organiser, I know how to guide you through the full journey from idea to exhibition, from both artist and organiser perspectives.
3. A Tried-and-Tested Roadmap
This course is built around a process that works. I’ve refined a sketchbook-based roadmap that helps you move from scattered ideas to a well-developed, themed series - and I’ll walk you through every step.
4. Encouraging and Practical Teaching Style
I combine gentle encouragement with a bit of a push when needed! I’m here to support you while helping you challenge yourself, move forward, and grow creatively - without overwhelm. You’ll feel safe but motivated.
5. Structure with Flexibility
You’ll get a clear structure and deadlines (including a final exhibition!) - but with enough flexibility to follow your own artistic voice. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all course; it’s about helping you get the most from your work.
6. Community and Momentum
You won’t be doing this alone. This is a chance to be part of a small, focused group with shared goals. You’ll gain feedback, energy, and accountability across the six months - plus the shared celebration of the exhibition at the end.
'A massive thank you for your patience, guidance and skill as a tutor over the past six months.
Throughout the course you have provided advice and gentle encouragement whenever wobbles and moments of self doubt have occurred.
I now feel able to move forward equipped with confidence and knowledge generously shared by yourself.
It's been a joy to meet you and the other participants and to have been part of the collective journey.'
Dates
Session 1 - Tuesday 21st April 2026, 6-8pm
Session 2 - Tuesday 26th May 2026, 6-8pm
Session 3- Tuesday 23rd June 2026, 6-8pm
Session 4- Tuesday 28th July 2026, 6-8pm
Optional Extra Session*- Tuesday 25th August 2026, 6-8pm
Session 5 - Tuesday 29th September 2026, 6-8pm
Session 6 - Tuesday 27th October 2026, 6-8pm
Exhibition - Wednesday 6th - Saturday 9th January 2027 10am-4pm
*Optional Extra session - I know many people are away in August, but I’ll be offering this optional open session for anyone who wants to drop in, catch up, or simply work alongside others for a bit of motivation and support.
What you'll achieve
By the end of the course, you will have:
✔️ A completed sketchbook full of research, development, and experiments.
✔️ A small, cohesive collection of artworks ready to exhibit.
✔️ A clear narrative about you work for marketing and promotion.
✔️ A plan for presenting, pricing, and exhibiting your pieces.
This structured approach ensures that the exhibition is not just a deadline, but a celebration of the entire creative journey.
Where will it be?
All of the meet-ups and the exhibition will be held at
Creative Melbourne Gallery
Wellington House
Church Street
Melbourne
South Derbyshire
DE73 8EJ
The Gallery is open Wed - Sat from 10am - 4pm and features work created by Melbourne Festival Artists and Makers in exhibitions that change on a monthly basis.
FAQ's
When does the course start?
The first session is Tuesday 21st April 2025, we will be meeting in Creative Melbourne Gallery, South Derbyshire, DE73 8EJ from 6-8pm.
Who is the course for?
This course is open to anyone with a creative spark - whether you’re just starting out or have been making art for years. It’s designed to support you in exploring ideas and uncovering the themes that give your work meaning and direction.
What is the aim of the course?
To use a sketchbook to create a body of work on a creative theme which will be exhibited in an exhibition to celebrate the project.
Is there an online version of the course?
This is an in-person course. I will be using what I've learned from teaching this to develop an online version in the future.
What supplies do I need for the classes?
You will receive a kit as part of the course including a sketchbook! I will also provide a handout with a list of supplies you'll need. You are welcome to bring anything else along with you to the sessions.
What's included in the goody bag?
At the first session, you'll receive a goody bag to help you get started. It includes a sketchbook (you’ll be able to choose the size and whether it’s landscape or portrait), a pencil, glue stick, and scissors - along with a few surprise extras to spark inspiration and support your creative journey throughout the course.
How many people will be in the group?
The course is limited to a small group to ensure everyone receives plenty of individual support, guidance, and feedback. This creates a relaxed and encouraging environment to develop your work at your own pace.
Do I need to be able to draw?
Not at all! This course is about ideas, process, and creative exploration - so there’s no pressure to have traditional drawing skills.
What if I miss a session?
I understand that life happens! If you miss a session, I’ll email you a handout or summary of what we covered and suggested tasks to help you stay on track. You’re also welcome to get in touch with any questions between sessions.
Will my work definitely be in the exhibition?
Yes, all participants will have the opportunity to show their final collection as part of our group exhibition. I’ll guide you through preparing your work for display and help you feel confident about presenting it.
Is there homework or work to do between sessions?
Yes - between each session there will be tasks or prompts to help you keep momentum and continue developing your ideas. These are designed to be flexible and manageable alongside your other commitments.
Can I join if I’ve never exhibited before?
Absolutely! One of the goals of this course is to help you feel ready and supported to share your work publicly - whether it’s your first exhibition or one of many.
What kind of art can I make?
That’s up to you! The course will help you develop a body of work that reflects your personal interests, materials, and creative style. Suitable for artists working in drawing, painting, collage, mixed media, sculpture, textiles, and more.
Do you offer one-to-one sessions?
Yes! I offer one-to-one mentoring tailored to your creative goals. My usual rate is £50 per hour, but during the Sketchbook to Series course, I’m offering a special rate of £35 per hour for participants. Just send me a message to book your session.
Is the venue accessible?
There are two steps up to the gallery entrance from outside, but a ramp is available if needed. The workshops will be held on the first floor, which is accessible via a stair lift. If you have any specific accessibility needs - such as seating requirements, assistance with materials, or support with hearing or visual needs - please let me know in advance so I can do my best to accommodate you.
