Press Release: Escape from it all at West Dean

Posted on 10th May 2019

One-week summer schools in July and August allow students to learn a new skill; relax in stunning surroundings; share ideas and even have yoga sessions in the historic house.

The height of summer in the rolling Sussex Downs attracts those looking for a break with a creative
edge and the chance to learn a new skill and relax in stunning surrounds at West Dean College of
Art and Conservation (Nr. Chichester, West Sussex).

Courses range from sculpture to stone to experimental painting to jewellery and for those looking
for a different type of break this summer, there are several new courses in 2019 among the 27
courses on offer. These vary from:

July 26-August 1

Woven tapestry as sculptural forms and objects with Cos Ahmet

August 2 - 8

Willow baskets & purses on a Catalan base - contemporary approach with Anne Mette Hjornholm
Paper journeys - stitch and fold unique books with Tracey Bush
Digital photography - a comprehensive guide to the essentials with Roy Matthews

August 12-18

Writing in Nature with Mary Reynolds Thompson
Exploring hand embroidery for new interpretations with Charlotte Bailey

Tracey Bush

Roy Matthews

Charlotte Bailey

Anne Mette Hjornholm

Cos Ahmet

West Dean House which is home to the College was originally the home of Edward James, the Surrealist patron and poet. He founded the College, ensuring his beautiful house and estate would support crafts education for future generations.

Summer School students get the opportunity to stay in the magnificent house and meet new people; attend talks, have an afternoon taster session of another course taking place at the same time, take advantage of the wonderful 240 acres grounds, take part in yoga sessions in the historic house, swim in the outdoor pool and even pop into nearby Chichester to visit the world-famous Chichester Festival Theatre or visit Pallant House Gallery!

Alison Baxter, Head of School of Arts, commented; "The Summer schools are a perfect way to explore your creativity with expert tutors and other students, exchange ideas and experiences about your practice and switch off from the everyday hustle and bustle of a busy life. For those who really want to get away from it all - this a TV-free zone and after a busy day, there is even an outdoor swimming pool which is open to students."

NEW FOR 2019 - BURSARY FUNDING

As part of the College's commitment to provide access to education in the creative arts they offer bursaries to people who cannot afford to study on a short course. This includes 50% off to art teachers and lecturers at schools, FE and HE institutions and New for Summer 2019, there are a number of Art Teacher Summer School Bursaries covering full course fees, available to art teachers and lecturers at schools, FE and HE institutions (application deadline 1 June 2019). For all Summer Schools and bursary details, please visit:
https://www.westdean.org.uk/study/themes/summer-schools-visual-arts-and-craft

For full details of each course and to browse the latest digital brochure, please visit www.westdean.ac.uk

Bookings can be made online or by calling +44 (0)1243 818300. Gift vouchers of £10, £25, £50
or £100 can be used as full or part payment towards a short course.

Notes to Editors:

West Dean College of Arts and Conservation was founded in 1971 by the poet and Surrealist patron, Edward James, recognised by BBC Arts as the 'the greatest patron of art of the early 20th century'.
The College is part of The Edward James Foundation (Charity No. 1126084), also comprising West Dean Gardens, West Dean Estate and West Dean Tapestry Studio.
All photography is free to use for editorial purposes.

West Dean College is situated on the A286, six miles north of Chichester and within easy access of Portsmouth, Guildford, Brighton and London.

For all media enquiries please contact:
Rachel Aked
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 07790 732448

West Dean College of Arts and Conservation, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 OQZ

West Dean College of Arts and Conservation can be found on Social Media:
https://twitter.com/westdeancollege
https://www.facebook.com/westdeancollege
https://www.instagram.com/westdeancollege/
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/westdeancollege/
https://www.linkedin.com/school/westdeancollege

Categories