Join Art in Whitefield on this second part of our Spring edition of Springwater Sketchbook Walks.

Springwater Sketchbook Walks are a series of 12 monthly guided walks through the wild and wonderful Springwater Park in Whitefield, that use drawing and walking to explore the woodland and help to foster a sense of a creative community spirit in the area.

From our meeting point at the car park at the bottom of Springwater Lane, we will make our way through a section of Springwater Park after a short introduction, pausing at various points to observe, notice, collect, interpret, and note the environment through the process of drawing and sketching. Each individual walk will respond to seasonal change, exploring the shifting nature of the woodland habitat and our engagement with it.

Drawing can be a powerful, yet fundamentally accessible tool, to help us better understand our place in the world, and to foster a sense of togetherness and belonging.

The walks are supported by Love Springwater Park - a group of local people who feel passionate about the park, working together so more people in the community can enjoy and explore.

Some practicalities

Springwater Park can be quite muddy and hard-going in places so a good pair of walking shoes is essential. Walking poles might also be a good option, but most can manage without.

There are no shops in the park, and refreshments will not be provided, so please bring whatever you need with you, and most importantly, leave nothing but your footprints.

You're encouraged to bring your own art materials - this could be anything from a biro and the back of an envelope, to artist standard oil pastels and hand-made paper. Please do not bring any potentially harmful substances such as turps or white spirit - other than that, bring whatever you fancy! If you don't have access to any drawing materials, there will be a limited supply of free sketchbooks, pens and pencils thanks to Cass Art - the UK's leading art supplies retailer.

Springwater Sketchbook Walks are open to all ages and all levels of artistic ability, all you really need is an open mind and a good pair of walking shoes.

Numbers will be limited to 15 for each walk, so please book your place now! If after booking you, or a member of your household develops symptoms of coronavirus, please do not attend the walk.

Springwater Sketchbook Walks are supported using public funding by Arts Council England.