Visual Art

Scottish Colourist Series – Painting Shambellie Woods inspired by F. C. B. Cadell

From: £150.00

Short description:

Date: Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August, 2026

Time: 10 – 4pm each day

Step into the vibrant world of the Scottish Colourists!
Join us for our weekend workshop Painting Shambellie Woods Inspired by F.C.B. Cadell – a unique two-day workshop where you’ll explore the bold techniques of Francis “Bunty” Cadell in the stunning setting of Shambellie grounds. Learn plein air sketching techniques, master tonal values, and discover Cadell’s simple yet dynamic use of colour, all with expert guidance in a relaxed, inspiring setting. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this immersive weekend will spark creativity, build confidence, and develop your artist skills.

 

Time: 10 – 4 each day

Additional costs: yes – £20 per person to be added to the final price and taken by Shambellie at time of booking.

Kit and requirements:

Throughout the weekend we will make the most of outdoors in the beautiful Shambellie woods.

Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for our changeable climate!

You’ll need, waterproofs, warm layers, a water bottle, hat, suncream and insect repellent.

Please bring a camping chair for your comfort and a travel easel if you have one and would like to use it.

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Description

Workshop description:

Our Painting Shambellie Woods inspired by F.C.B. Cadell workshop offers an exciting opportunity to delve into the landscape painting techniques of renowned Scottish Colourist, Francis “Bunty” Cadell.

Over the course of the weekend, you’ll learn about the artist himself and his deep connection to Shambellie House.

You’ll explore some of his methods for capturing the lush green woodland in the beautiful Shambellie grounds, learning essential techniques in plein air sketching, and compositional planning. You’ll learn the fundamentals of tonal values, that will help you to create a sense of depth and movement in your work. And explore Cadell’s incredible use of colour.

This immersive weekend will give you ample time for painting in a relaxed and inspiring environment, alongside fellow art enthusiasts. You’ll receive one-on-one guidance, expert instruction, and practical tips, ensuring plenty of support and encouragement.

By the end of the weekend, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of Cadell’s techniques, and the confidence to apply them in your own work.

So whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your creative approach, you’ll learn easy-to-follow techniques that will build your confidence and spark some fresh inspiration!

About the Day:

Time: 10 AM – 4 PM each day

Includes: Refreshments, tea, coffee, and plenty of cake!

Location & Accessibility: 

This workshop will take place indoors in the Gallery and outdoors in the grounds should the weather be kind.

Please note that the Gallery is located on the second floor and is only accessible via stairs.

If you have any access requirements, let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

What You’ll Learn:

  1. Learn mark-making methods
  2. Discover plein air sketching techniques
  3. Learn the value of creating thumbnails when working on composition planning
  4. Learn how to simplify complex scenes through the use of colour
  5. Develop your brushwork and explore new painting techniques based on Cadell’s approach

What You’ll Create:

  • Mark-making and brushwork studies
  • Plein air sketches and non-linear perspective drawings
  • Tonal sketches
  • A final woodland painting in your personal style

Kit and requirements:

Throughout the weekend we will make the most of outdoors in the beautiful Shambellie woods.

Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for our changeable climate!

You’ll need, waterproofs, warm layers, a water bottle, hat, suncream and insect repellent.

Please bring a camping chair for your comfort and a travel easel if you have one and would like to use it.

Additional costs: yes – £20 per person to be added to the final price and taken by Shambellie at time of booking.

 

Your Tutor

Your Tutor

Ailsa Mackay

A graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, I have dedicated over 30 years to a professional career as an artist and designer. My creative journey has spanned a wide range of disciplines—from fashion and home décor to interior and stationery design—with my designs sold and licensed internationally, including in the UK, USA, Germany, and Australia. Alongside commercial work, I have consistently developed and exhibited original artworks, with paintings and prints held in private collections both across the UK and overseas.

My artistic practice is rooted in a bold, expressive style that reflects my background in design. Working primarily in acrylic, gouache, and soft pastels, I draw inspiration from the natural world and the nuances of everyday life. Each piece is a dynamic exploration of colour, texture, and form—seeking to capture moments of vitality and reflection.

Now based in Scotland after many years working in the south of England, I continue to balance creative practice with education and public engagement. As an experienced art educator, I teach foundational drawing and painting skills to learners of all levels, encouraging confidence and curiosity through accessible, skills-based learning.

I am currently acting of Chair DG Unlimited (Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of the Arts) and sit on the Artists of Shambellie House Steering Group. My commitment to the wider impact of the arts also extends into research and policy. In my role as Lead for the National Centre for Resilience—a scientific centre focused on community preparedness for natural hazards and climate change—I champion creative methods as a means of strengthening personal and collective wellbeing.

This cross-sector work has included co-authoring research on community resilience and supporting young people with additional needs.

My work has been exhibited widely throughout the UK, with recent exhibitions including Shambellie House in New Abbey. I continue to pursue opportunities for collaboration, exhibition, and engagement that sit at the intersection of art, education, and wellbeing.

Do you have any access needs?

If you have answered yes and would like to discuss your requirements then please get in touch.

Have you any dietary requirements?