LOCAL artists and those interested in developing their artistic skills will find plenty to inspire them during spring at the Wangaratta Artists Society Inc, located at The Studio in Batchelors Green.
The art group has been running since 1962 and while the committee is preparing to host their 53rd annual art exhibition in November - to complement the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues - three workshops coming up in October and November should also prove beneficial for novice artists and those wanting to brush up on their skills.
Publicity officer Robyn White said Wangaratta Artists Society is unique because it's predominately a working art studio space, rather than a gallery space.
She said some people appeared to be under the impression the space was for serious artists rather than beginners, but she said all were welcome, no matter what their skill level or experience.
"We feel strongly that the space is for everyone no matter what stage of your artistic journey," she said.
"We want community members to feel they can come into the space, feel welcomed and be able to paint, draw or work in whatever medium they choose.
"With this in mind, we have two beginner workshops coming up which everyone will enjoy."
A Drawing Workshop for Beginners will be held over three Saturdays in October, and Acrylic Painting for Beginners will run over four Saturdays in November.
The cost of the workshops is $150 and $200 respectively, and the instructor will be well-respected artist and art educator, Leonie Partridge.
During the drawing workshop, participants will go from learning the basic methods of observational drawing with grey lead in week one, through to charcoal drawing in week three.
Students would need to bring their own materials including a variety of lead pencils, paper, erasers and charcoal.
The Painting Workshop for Beginners involves an introduction to acrylic paints and brush techniques in week one, going through to learning how to build layers with paint in the final session.
Each painting session is two and half hours and students would need to bring their own materials including acrylic paints, brushes, paper and canvas, along with a small sketchbook.
A Matte Board Cutting Workshop will also be held on Wednesday, October 9 from 10am to 1pm, facilitated by Louise Carlisle of Carlisle Art Benalla.
It's designed for anyone wanting to save on framing costs for their artwork by learning the art of cutting matte board - the essential layer between your artwork and the frame.
The workshop costs $50 and with spaces limited, bookings and prepayment are required.
To find out more visit the Wangaratta Artists Society Inc and bookings can be made by calling Robyn on 0412 291 066 or email publicity@wangartists.org.au.