About the event

In this session, you will work with bespoke, hand-painted paper textures specifically created to reflect the unique colour palette and landscape of Walthamstow Wetlands.

Siobhán is a firm believer that collage is one of the most accessible ways for anyone to tap into their creativity. Because it requires no formal drawing experience, this workshop provides a unique opportunity to switch off from the distractions of the modern world and reconnect with your hands.

Whether you are a seasoned creator or a complete beginner, you will be guided through the process of paper collage to create your own mini collection of artwork.

The session emphasises the joy of the process, encouraging a meditative, analogue experience in an increasingly digital age. All materials are provided, including specialised textured papers prepared by Siobhán in her studio.

About your tutor

Siobhán is a mixed-media illustrator and educator known for her focus on texture, colour, and the natural world. Her work often bridges the gap between landscape and abstract form. With a background in Textile Design, Siobhán’s workshops emphasise the joy of the creative process and the unique beauty found in tactile materials.

About Walthamstow Wetlands

This London Wildlife Trust reserve is one of the largest urban wetlands in Europe. It supports a huge variety of wildlife and is the perfect backdrop for botanical cyanotype printmaking.

What’s included

Bespoke Material Pack: A glassine envelope containing unique, hand-painted paper textures, specifically created by Siobhán to reflect the spring palette of the Wetlands. This pack also includes your own Artist’s Viewfinder - a simple yet effective tool to help you frame compositions and isolate textures in the wild.

Concertina Sketchbook: A heavy-weight watercolour paper accordion sketchbook - a beautiful, tactile format for capturing the flow of the landscape.

Guided Nature Walk: A short, sensory walk through the Wetlands using your viewfinder to gather inspiration, observe silhouettes, and make colour notes.

Demonstration: A behind-the-scenes look at Siobhán’s process, including a demonstration of Gel Plate mono-printing techniques.

The "Next Steps" Handout: An exclusive guide featuring Siobhán’s personal tips and techniques for continuing your collage and texture practice at home.

Important information

This event is aimed primarily at adults, but is suitable for children aged 12+. Any attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All artistic abilities are welcome!

Please note that the reserve will close to the public at 5pm and reopen for attendees of this event at 6.45pm. It will not be possible to access the reserve between these times.

The workshop will take place in the Engine House Visitor Centre. What3words: water.stud.solid.