Explore the wonderful textures and character of sheep in this practical, step-by-step introduction to realistic charcoal drawing.

Working from photographic reference, Becky will demonstrate how to use charcoal to build convincing form and texture, from the soft, woolly curls of a sheep’s fleece to the contrasting tones and finer details of its face. You’ll learn how to combine willow charcoal, charcoal powder, brushes and charcoal pencils to create contrast, texture and detail, gradually developing your drawing through a structured and guided approach.

Participants can choose to work from a selection of four different sheep reference photographs and develop their own composition, or use a pre-printed outline as a starting point if they prefer a little guidance and a quicker start.

The emphasis is on exploring techniques and understanding how different charcoal materials can be used together, rather than rushing towards a finished drawing.

What you’ll take away: Your own, partially completed A4 charcoal study, together with an understanding of the materials and techniques needed to develop it into a more detailed portrait.

Please Note: This is a short, technique-focused workshop rather than a session to complete a fully refined, photorealistic portrait. The promotional image is an example of Becky’s finished work and took over 20 hours to complete! In 2.5 hours, you’ll develop the starting points of a realistic charcoal study and learn techniques that you can continue exploring and refining to complete at home. The emphasis is on enjoying the process, experimenting with materials and building skills, rather than producing a finished portrait.

Level: Suitable for beginners and those with some previous drawing experience who wish to explore charcoal techniques in a fun and accessible way.

Materials: All materials and equipment needed for the workshop will be provided. Participants are also welcome to bring their own charcoal materials if they prefer.

About the tutor: 

Becky Gouverneur is a professional animal artist and art tutor based in Buckinghamshire, specialising in highly realistic charcoal and pencil animal portraits. Her work is known for its dramatic tonal contrasts, fine detail and ability to capture the individual character and personality of her subjects.

She has exhibited nationally, been shortlisted for Wildlife Artist of the Year 2024 and exhibited with the Pastel Society at the Mall Galleries in 2025. She is a member of the Oxford Art Society and Buckinghamshire Art Society, an SAA tutor and contributor, writes regularly for Artists & Illustrators magazine and is the author of the forthcoming Search Press book ‘Drawing Animals in Charcoal‘.

Tickets £60 (12 Places)

Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10am on 15th March and 1 week earlier for benefactors of the festival who benefit from priority booking

Materials

Basic materials and equipment will be supplied as part of the workshop ticket price, so you don’t need to bring anything unless you prefer to use your own.

If you would like to bring your own materials, the following is a selection of what will be used:

• Willow charcoal
• Charcoal powder
• Sandpaper
• A selection of soft brushes in various sizes, suitable for applying charcoal powder (make-up brushes are excellent for this!)
• Blending stumps
• Pierre Noire 2B or equivalent compressed charcoal pencil
• Tombow Mono Zero eraser or equivalent precision eraser
• Putty eraser

A drawing board or firm backing surface is also useful.

Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, as charcoal can be messy!

Want to take your materials home?

Becky’s Charcoal Packs will also be available to purchase on the day for £35. These comprehensive packs contain a selection of the materials Becky uses in her own professional work, book and workshops, including willow and compressed charcoal, charcoal pencils, erasers and blending tools. They’re ideal for anyone wishing to continue exploring and developing their charcoal skills after the workshop.

All drawing paper, reference imagery, masking tape and access to sharpening equipment will be provided by the tutor. Workshop materials and equipment are supplied for use during the session and are not taken home unless purchased as part of a Charcoal Pack.

Please also bring along a small board or portfolio to take your work home safely!