Lynne’s Gelli Plate Printing workshop in May proved extremely popular, with places filling quickly and several members unable to secure a spot.

In response to the strong interest, Lynne has generously agreed to offer a second introductory workshop, giving those who missed out another opportunity to explore this creative technique.

For the past five years, Tauranga artist Lynne Dara has been exploring the creative possibilities of mixed media, combining oils, acrylics, Gelli plate printing, and collage to create richly layered artworks. Her practice is driven by a love of experimentation, texture, colour, and the unexpected results that emerge when different materials and techniques come together.

In this workshop, Lynne will introduce participants to the fascinating world of Gelli plate printing. A Gelli plate is a soft, reusable printing surface that allows artists to create unique monoprints using acrylic paint, stencils, textures, and found objects. The process is simple, accessible, and full of surprises, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced artists.

Participants will learn how to print onto paper using a Gelli plate and discover how these beautiful, translucent prints can be incorporated into collage. Printed papers can be layered, torn, cut, and combined with other materials to add colour, texture, pattern, and depth to artworks, journals, cards, and mixed media projects.

Lynne will bring along examples of her completed artworks, as well as a selection of her hand-printed papers, to demonstrate the many creative possibilities of this versatile technique. Whether you are new to mixed media or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your artistic practice, this workshop offers a fun and inspiring opportunity to experiment, learn new skills, and create your own unique pieces.

This is an introductory workshop, so all materials will be provided for participants to share. However, if you already own any of the supplies listed, please bring them along. Having your own materials will allow you to work at your own pace without needing to wait for shared equipment.

NOTE: Lynne will be hosting a full-day workshop on 10 October which will be a follow up to these introductory sessions. Registrations for this will open in August.

Join Hamilton-based watercolour artist Martin for a workshop exploring the art of ‘fast and loose’ watercolour painting. Participants will learn techniques for creating beautiful, expressive, and visually rich paintings with a minimum of time and effort.

Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced watercolour artists, the workshop will guide participants through the creation of two complete paintings. Attendees may be surprised by what they can achieve in just one session.

Martin's true passion is pure watercolour, the only medium he works in. His bold, expressive, impressionist landscapes capture the raw natural beauty of New Zealand and aim to evoke a sense of grandeur, wonder, mystery, and beauty.

During the workshop, participants will gain an insight into the techniques and creative processes that underpin his work and help give his paintings their distinctive character.

Join award-winning watercolour artist Min Kim for two inspiring days exploring the beauty, movement, and character of birds through watercolour.

For Min, painting is not just about technique—it's about developing confidence, embracing creativity, and enjoying the journey of artistic expression.

What You'll Learn

Watercolour Foundations

Explore the foundations of expressive watercolour painting as Min guides you through tone, brush strokes, form, reflected light, contrast, perspective and and brush control.

Portrait of a Bird

Birds are more than just beautiful subjects – they are messengers of freedom. Learn how to capture their unique character using rich tonal values and expressive brushwork to create a striking watercolour portrait.

Min Kim's Approach

Min encourages students to develop a positive mindset, trust their creative instincts, and move beyond self-doubt. Through guided exercises and demonstrations, you'll learn to paint with greater confidence and freedom.

As Min says, painting is a ‘dance of brushes’ – a balance of skill, expression, and trust in your own creative energy.