All animals use colour – to help locate a mate, escape predation and to communicate – Insects are no exception. They use colour in an incredible range of breathtaking manifestations, patterns and hues to help make them the largest and most successful group of animals on Earth.

Within this success story, butterflies are arguably the best example of how colour can be used with astonishing results. In this unique entomological/watercolour painting weekend, Cath Hodsman will take participants into the vibrant and fascinating world of butterfly colour and pattern. Students will study how colour is manifested in these ethereal insects in order to understand more about their magic and allure.

During the workshop, each participant will make use of Cath’s microscopes, ethical specimens, macro photos, wide range of reference books, as well as her expert artistic guidance to produce a unique, bright and beautiful watercolour painting of an iconic vibrant butterfly.

All Cath’s workshops are fun, informal and fascinating and are set at a comfortable beginner’s level.

Cath is based in the picturesque Cotswolds, and with some superb nature reserves on her doorstep which are home to the rare and beautiful Large Blue butterflies among other things, we will endeavour to make the most of our location. Weather permitting, we’ll begin our weekend by venturing out for the afternoon on Friday to gain some inspiration, after which we’ll take cream tea in a nearby pub.

The Saturday and Sunday will be fully devoted to our butterfly based art workshop and on Monday morning guests will be able to join Alice for another walk at a local nature reserve should they wish before departing. The local conditions and outcome of Friday’s outing will largely influence our choice of location for this last venture!