Birds in Nature and Creative Expression 

Birds have a unique ability to capture our imagination. They can remind us of places, evoke emotions and tell stories through their behaviour, movement and character.

Over two days, you’ll learn how to observe birds more closely and transform those observations into expressive acrylic paintings. Through sketching, colour studies, demonstrations and guided painting sessions, you’ll develop both technical skills and creative confidence.

There will be opportunities to gather inspiration from the surrounding landscape, experiment with different approaches and create artwork that reflects your own response to nature.

The workshop focuses on enjoyment, exploration and personal expression, providing a welcoming and supportive environment for anyone wishing to deepen their creative practice.

What you’ll learn: 

• How to observe birds and identify the qualities that make them unique
• Techniques for sketching, planning and developing successful paintings
• How colour, texture and mark-making can communicate mood and character
• Ways to create expressive wildlife paintings with confidence
• Approaches to developing your own artistic voice and style

  Take home: 

• Sketches, studies and creative exercises from across the two days
• One or more completed acrylic paintings
• Greater confidence in observation and creative decision-making
• A deeper connection with nature and the creative process

Carla Elizabeth

Carla Elizabeth is a Suffolk-based artist and workshop tutor whose work is inspired by the wildlife, coastline and countryside of East Anglia.
Known for her relaxed and encouraging teaching style, Carla has been leading creative workshops since 2024, helping artists of all abilities build confidence, develop their skills and enjoy the creative process.
Working primarily in acrylics, oils, and mixed media, Carla is particularly drawn to birds and the personalities they reveal through posture, movement and behaviour. Her recent Feathered Friends collection explores the stories and emotions we often see reflected in the natural world, an approach that forms the inspiration behind these workshops.

Residential accommodation at Flatford Mill is provided within our historic Grade I listed buildings. Rooms are clean, comfortable and functional, but are intentionally simple and should be considered field centre accommodation rather than hotel-standard accommodation. Many guests value the character and heritage of the site, although facilities reflect the age and nature of the buildings.

Whilst most rooms are either en-suite or have a dedicated bathroom, there are some rooms in The Mill that share showers and toilets at the end of the hall. If this is unsuitable for you please make the office staff aware upon booking or as soon as possible.

Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory style, but warm and comfortable.

• 
  Expert Tuition
• 
  Free Wi-Fi
• 
  Full Board Accommodation
• 
  Hot and Cold Drinks
• 
  Picnic Lunch

Full board accommodation and picnic lunch is available for resident bookings only.

Refreshments are included for all, but non-resident bookings are advised to bring a packed lunch with you.