The Latest Calendar of Workshops with the LAS

The Launceston Art Society is delighted to share with you an inspiring calendar of six workshops!

From pastels to to journaling to mixed media to acrylics to oil painting, these workshops are all about developing your skills, whether they’re new ones or polishing existing abilities.

The workshops are lead by popular and acclaimed Tasmanian artists, including Marilyn Theisel, Jill Eastley, Julie Wickham, Edna Broad, Josh Foley and Darren Meader. Discover all the details below!

Extract the Abstract with Josh Foley Workshop

Master advanced acrylic painting techniques focused on composition, colour, and dynamic surfaces with artist Josh Foley.

Composition, Pattern and Colour Theory

This intensive painting workshop, led by accomplished artist Josh Foley, offers participants the opportunity to deepen their skills in acrylic painting through advanced techniques and innovative material use.

You will explore key elements such as composition, pattern, and colour theory to create engaging artworks that command attention.

Josh will demonstrate glazing methods, layering of paint, and approaches to finishing works that enhance texture and surface dynamics.

With guidance on colour usage and form, participants will learn to direct the viewer’s eye and create visually compelling pieces.

Whether you’re refining your practice or expanding your artistic toolkit, this workshop promises insightful instruction and practical experience.

Workshops to Inspire!

This introductory Textile Mixed Media workshop invites you to experiment with plain fabrics, acrylic paints, papers, and stitching to create unique artworks.

Guided by artist Marilyn Theisel, you’ll learn how to combine simple materials like calico, cotton threads, and acrylic paint to produce layered, textured pieces.

Colour and Contrast Inspiration

Using just a few complementary colours and contrasting threads, the workshop focuses on play and discovery—no prior sewing or art experience is required.

You’ll also explore collage techniques by incorporating coloured paper and fabric scraps on strong paper or fabric bases.

Materials such as fabric pieces, some threads, and papers will be supplied, while you’re encouraged to bring some personal items to make your work your own.

This hands-on session is a wonderful way to awaken your creativity and explore new artistic skills in a relaxed and supportive setting.

Calling all Textile Lovers!

This workshop is perfect for beginners, textile lovers, and anyone curious about combining painting and stitching to create art.

You’ll enjoy discovering how simple materials can be transformed through layering, colour, and texture, and the joy that comes from making something tactile and personal.

The playful environment encourages experimentation without pressure, and you’ll gain practical skills in fabric painting, stitching basics, and collage.

The process of creating with fabric and thread offers a soothing, mindful experience, and participants often leave feeling inspired and confident to continue exploring mixed media art on their own.

The Popular Marilyn Theisel

The workshop will be led by Marilyn Theisel, a passionate mixed media artist experienced in working across many mediums.

Marilyn’s work focuses on expressing emotion, light, and texture through painting, stitching, and collage.

She encourages experimentation and creative freedom, helping participants to overcome fears around art and find joy in the process.

Marilyn’s approachable style makes her workshops welcoming to all skill levels, creating a supportive space where everyone can explore and grow.

Workshop Supplies

Participants are asked to bring plain white or off-white fabric (calico pieces can be provided), three complementary acrylic paint colours, and sewing threads that contrast or match their paint choices.

You’ll also need to bring scissors, needles for sewing, and pins.

Coloured papers, some fabric scraps, glue, and strong base papers will be supplied at the workshop.

A detailed materials list will be provided upon booking to help you prepare and personalise your creative experience.

Workshops That Are All About Creative Fun

Fun Journaling is a hands-on creative workshop where you’ll explore the vibrant and expressive world of art journaling.

Led by artists Marilyn Theisel and Edna Broad, this session combines writing, painting, collage, and mixed media to help you create a unique visual diary.

Whether you’re reflecting on life, recording memories, or simply playing with colour and form, art journaling allows for personal expression in a fun, no-pressure environment.

With expert guidance you’ll have the freedom to experiment with layers, textures, and creative techniques.

This workshop is perfect for those looking to explore a new hobby, reconnect with their creativity, or simply enjoy a day of mindful making in great company.

A Curiousity for Creativity

This workshop is for anyone curious about creativity—whether you’re a beginner, a lifelong journaler, or someone looking to explore a fresh and playful form of self-expression.

Participants will enjoy using a variety of materials and techniques to create personal pages that reflect their mood, memories, or simply the beauty of the moment.

The real joy comes from letting go of perfection and embracing the process.

You’ll be supported every step of the way in a warm, welcoming environment where making a mess is part of the fun.

You’ll leave with your own handmade journal pages and the inspiration to keep going at home.

Your Workshop Artist Leaders

The workshop is led by two creative and passionate artists, Edna Broad and Marilyn Theisel.

Edna Broad is a well-respected Tasmanian artist with over 40 years of exhibiting experience.

Her work responds to the natural environment, especially Tasmania’s coastlines and wetlands, using painting, printmaking, and mixed media.

Based in Invermay, Edna holds an MFA and PhD from the University of Tasmania and has work in several notable public and private collections.

Marilyn Theisel is a mixed media artist who enjoys working across many mediums to express light, emotion, and texture.

Her intuitive and experimental approach invites participants to explore freely and find joy in the creative process.

For Marilyn, art is about connection—between materials, ideas, and people.

Together, they offer a supportive and engaging space where creativity flows.

Tear It Up and Stick It Down with Jill Eastley Workshop

Create unique collage artworks by transforming recycled paper, books, and magazines into captivating visual stories.

Mixed Media Collage Art Workshop

Join us for a hands-on Collage Art workshop led by Jill Eastley, where you’ll explore how to turn discarded books, magazines, and recycled paper into dynamic, original artworks.

This creative session encourages you to play with layers, textures, and imagery to build visual narratives that express your ideas and imagination.

Jill will guide you through various collage techniques, offering tips on composition, colour harmony, and storytelling through art.

Whether you’re new to collage or looking to develop your skills, this workshop provides a welcoming environment for experimentation and discovery. You’ll leave inspired with your own one-of-a-kind collage pieces.

Workshops for Makering Joy

This workshop is perfect for artists, crafters, and anyone curious about exploring collage as a creative outlet.

Participants will enjoy the freedom of repurposing materials to create meaningful artworks and the satisfaction of telling personal stories through images and textures.

The joy comes from mixing the familiar with the unexpected—transforming everyday paper into something beautiful and unique.

It’s a day of creative play, inspiration, and connection with like-minded people, all supported by Jill’s encouraging and knowledgeable teaching style.

About Your Workshop Artist Leader

The workshop will be led by Jill Eastley, an experienced collage artist passionate about repurposing and visual storytelling.

Jill’s work often incorporates found objects and recycled materials, reflecting a deep respect for sustainability and creativity.

Her approachable and supportive teaching style helps participants discover their own artistic voice while learning practical collage techniques.

Jill’s workshops are known for their fun, relaxed atmosphere where experimentation is encouraged.

Landscape Oil Painting

In this inspiring one-day workshop, Launceston-based artist Darren Meader will guide participants through the process of creating two 6×8” landscape oil paintings, his personal take on the “miniature.”

These small-format works are painted alla prima (wet-on-wet), allowing painters to complete a spontaneous, lively piece of art in a single session.

Darren will demonstrate expressive brush and palette knife techniques while sharing his knowledge of colour mixing and mark-making to achieve either clean, vibrant colour or dynamic blends directly on the surface.

This fun and fast-paced format is both accessible and rewarding, with a focus on building skill and confidence in oil painting without the pressure of large-scale projects.

Ideal for Beginners to Experience Painters

This workshop is open to all experience levels, from beginners new to oils to more experienced painters looking for a refreshing approach.

For those new to the medium, working small offers the chance to practise technique without investing heavily in larger surfaces and materials.

For experienced artists, the session will sharpen compositional instincts and loosen up technique.

Attendees will enjoy experimenting with vibrant colour, versatile tools, and creating expressive miniatures in a supportive and energetic setting.

You’ll leave the day with two finished works and a newfound appreciation for this punchy little format.

Workshop Artist Leader

Darren Meader is a prominent Launceston-based landscape artist known for his evocative impressionist-style paintings capturing Tasmania’s diverse natural and urban beauty.

Since 2012, Darren has created over 200 of his signature 6×8” oil miniatures, each reflecting his passion for expressive brushwork and spontaneous colour.

Darren brings a wealth of knowledge, a relaxed teaching style, and a strong focus on technique and creativity.

Whether demonstrating the use of a palette knife or sharing tips on colour harmony, Darren’s workshops are always practical, inspiring and full of good humour.

Little Birds Pastel Workshop with Julie Wickham Workshop

Join Julie Wickham for a fun and creative pastel workshop, Little Birds, where you’ll paint charming birds on suede matboard using soft pastels. Perfect for all experience levels.

Working in Soft Pastels Workshops

In this Little Birds – Pastel Workshop with Julie Wickham, you’ll explore the expressive and versatile nature of soft pastels while working on suede matboard, a surface that enhances both softness and precision.

This practical, hands-on session is designed to focus on doing rather than theory.

Participants can follow along with Julie as she paints a beautiful male Superb Fairy-wren, or choose a bird of their own.

With plenty of encouragement and guidance, you’ll create a finished (or nearly finished) artwork by the end of the day.

Two pre-cut pieces of suede matboard are included in the cost, in shades that complement most bird subjects.

Whether you’re looking to try pastels for the first time or revisit the medium, this workshop offers a relaxed, enjoyable space to develop your skills.

A Workshop for Bird and Nature Lovers

This workshop is designed for anyone with an interest in birds, nature, or drawing; whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist.

Attendees will gain confidence in using pastels, discover the benefits of working on suede matboard, and take home a completed piece of art.

The joy of the workshop comes from experimenting with materials, connecting with fellow creatives, and embracing the satisfaction of making something personal and beautiful in a friendly, relaxed environment.

About Your Workshop Artist Leader

Julie Wickham is a respected Tasmanian artist known for her delicate and detailed pastel work.

With a passion for birds and nature, Julie brings warmth and clarity to her teaching.

Her workshops are welcoming, well-paced, and full of practical tips that help demystify the pastel medium.

Julie’s approach makes space for each participant to find their creative flow, whether they’re new to art or refining existing skills.