Beamish Museum Ticket Portal

Observe and Draw

Come and view The 1900s Pit Village with an artist's eye and learn the techniques of Observational Sketching during the Observe and Draw Traditional Experience.

Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to learn how to draw or a more experienced artist who wants to brush up on your artistic skills, our Observe and Draw Traditional Experience will provide a creative environment in which to develop your talents.

Join artist Yvonne Williamson in The 1900s Pit Village and learn how to see the museum through an artist's eye.

During the Observe and Draw Traditional Experience, you will see examples of work by local artist Norman Cornish. Born in Spennymoor in 1919, Norman Cornish was passionate about drawing and sketching and joined his local sketching club at the Spennymoor Settlement as soon as he was able to on his 15th birthday. He was advised to “paint the world you know” leading Norman to expertly capture the everyday lives of the people of Spennymoor and familiar places. As well as seeing his work, you will learn more about Norman and his techniques so that you can begin to realise the ability of recreating what you see before you.

Included in your Traditional Experience:

  • All necessary materials will be supplied
  • Expert tuition from artist Yvonne Williamson
  • Picnic lunch and refreshments

Ticket options

  • Observe and Draw
    Observe and Draw
    £65.00
    0 10 max
Observe and Draw

Come and view The 1900s Pit Village with an artist's eye and learn the techniques of Observational Sketching during the Observe and Draw Traditional Experience.

Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to learn how to draw or a more experienced artist who wants to brush up on your artistic skills, our Observe and Draw Traditional Experience will provide a creative environment in which to develop your talents.

Join artist Yvonne Williamson in The 1900s Pit Village and learn how to see the museum through an artist's eye.

During the Observe and Draw Traditional Experience, you will see examples of work by local artist Norman Cornish. Born in Spennymoor in 1919, Norman Cornish was passionate about drawing and sketching and joined his local sketching club at the Spennymoor Settlement as soon as he was able to on his 15th birthday. He was advised to “paint the world you know” leading Norman to expertly capture the everyday lives of the people of Spennymoor and familiar places. As well as seeing his work, you will learn more about Norman and his techniques so that you can begin to realise the ability of recreating what you see before you.

Included in your Traditional Experience:

  • All necessary materials will be supplied
  • Expert tuition from artist Yvonne Williamson
  • Picnic lunch and refreshments