Spend an afternoon wandering and drawing through one of our favourite botanical spots in London. This guided experience will combine a relaxed walk through Kew Gardens with two creative exercises; the first will be focused on still life and the second on life drawing.

And it doesn’t matter if you haven't picked up a pencil since school or you're sketching every week, this is a day for you to slow down, take in some nature and get creative in a low stakes way.

What to expect

Meet up: from 11:45-12:05pm. Specific meet up details will be shared when you book.

Settling in: we’ll kick things off with an intro and a chance to say hello, get to know the group a bit and hand out materials before we set off.

The walk: we will stroll together through Kew's most picturesque spots taking in highlights such as the Palm House and Rose Garden.

Still life exercise: to get you warmed up, we will settle in among the plants for a 15-20 minute still life session.

Life drawing exercise: we'll round off the creative portion of the workshop with a life drawing session, working from a model in the gardens.

What you will get out of the workshop: Light guidance on composition and observational technique, plus tips on gesture and using different materials for mark making. You'll also be spending the day with other Global Majority women and non-binary people and might swapping ideas, share a laugh and connect with likeminded souls.

Who it's for

• This event is for Global (ethnic) Majority / POC women & non-binary people.

• Age guide: 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)

This event welcomes complete beginners and experienced artists alike. No prior experience is necessary, just curiosity and a willingness to have a go and enjoy the process. All materials are provided, though you're welcome to bring your own sketchbook or preferred tools if you have them.

What's included

• All creative materials

• Free entry to the gardens

Good to know

• This workshop will be co-facilitated by new RIOT SOUP member Kiera Gordon, and Asma Istwani

• Max group size is 20

• No drawing experience is required

• Available mediums will include watercolour

• You do not have to buy a ticket to enter Kew Gardens, entry is included in this workshop

• You can stay in the gardens and continue exploring once the workshop is over

• If temperatures exceed 33°C or heavy rain is forecast, the event may be postponed. We'll give as much notice as possible if that is the case.

Accessibility

• The Gardens are largely flat with tarmac paths

Don’t forget

• Bring a water bottle, hat, sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes.

Spaces are limited - please book early to avoid disappointment.