Adult Workshops and Talks - Rugby Art Gallery & Museum
A packed programme for our 25th Anniversary year
Please scroll down the page to see the full range of workshops and talks available. All workshops must be booked unless stated otherwise.
September 2025
Stacking Ring Workshop
With Zoë Hodgson
13 September, 10am – 3pm
£65
With guidance from Zoë you can make three silver rings to stack together, using a variety of textures to pattern the surfaces. Learn how to texture, saw, shape, file, solder and clean up, starting at the design process and ending up with your finished handmade rings.
Heritage Open Day Talk : Churches of Warwickshire
Friday 19 September 3- 4 pm
FREE
.The county of Warwickshire has a rich and varied past that is reflected in its historic churches. In Churches of Warwickshire, author and stained-glass artist Aidan McRae Thomson explores a selection of the most interesting churches across the whole of the county. Coventry has been included as it was part of the historic county and the buildings featured range from churches in the county town of Warwick and major settlements such as Nuneaton, Rugby and Leamington Spa to market towns, not least Stratford-upon-Avon, and villages, representing the many different architectural eras and styles to be found in Warwickshire’s churches. The book covers a cross section of churches throughout the county, both well-known and those waiting to be discovered by a wider audience. This fascinating picture of an important part of the history of Warwickshire over the centuries will be of interest to all those who live in or are visiting this attractive county in England.
Life Drawing
27 September, 6.00pm – 7.30pm
£ 10
Join us for a friendly evening of life drawing. All abilities welcome.
November 2025
Artist 'in conversation' with Carry Akroyd
1 November 1pm- 3.30 pm
£5.00
Join acclaimed painter and printmaker Carry Akroyd for a lively and engaging illustrated talk delving into the world of John Clare, the ‘peasant poet’ whose words have inspired her for over thirty years. Discover what drew her to Clare’s work, explore the wider themes in her landscape art, and gain fascinating insights into the printmaking techniques featured in the exhibition.
First Thursday Talk - Precious Strands - history and inspiration for recyling textiles
6 November 1- 2 pm
£5.00
In past centuries textiles were comparatively expensive and were valued and re-used accordingly in most cultures. Today it is not the cost of purchase that may concern us as much as the environmental costs which are becoming more important. This talk explores aspects of the history of recycled textiles around the world and some creative approaches to inspire recycling today.
Two day graphite pencil workshop: Clouded Leopard
With Jamie Boots
Friday 7 & Saturday 8 November,
9.30am – 3.30pm
£90
Subject: Clouded Leopard
Join Jamie for a two-day exploration into the nuanced world of graphite pencil art. This class delves beyond basic sketching, offering insights into the subtle techniques that breathe life into your creations. Participants will discover the art of manipulating pencil sharpness, pressure and tones to convey fine details such as fur, skin textures and expressive eyes.
All materials will be provided to be used for the duration of the class. Tables are provided but if you prefer to work from your own easel please feel free to bring one. Any reference material that we use in class is always copyright free so there is no restriction on use.
Macrame Santa and Macrame Angel
With Sally from Knot Sew Simple
Saturday 29 November,
Santa 10am - 12pm
Angel 1.30pm – 3.30pm
£25 per workshop
These beginner's workshops are a great way to get started with macrame. You will be given step by step instructions and guidance from Sally in these 2 hour workshops to create what is needed to make a Santa or an Angel decoration that can be hung and displayed on your Christmas tree at home.
Each person will be given a kit with everything they need. The rope used is recycled cotton of the finest quality and eco friendly.
All materials are provided and worksheets can be taken home.
Participants could bring fabric scissors with them but not essential.
December 2025
First Thursday Talk - Discover the history of this famous "Roman Road"
4 December 1- 2 pm
£5.00
Learn about this famous 'Roman' road and why it is not only more than one road but was also a road before the Romans were ever thought of.
Creative Workshops coming in 2026
Mindful Potttery with Air Dry Clay
Saturday 28th February 2026, 10.30am - 12.00pm, £10
Enjoy the serenity and tactility of clay and enhance your creative skills at this Mindful Pottery with Air Dry Clay workshop.
Easter Egg Needle felting with Coppice Collection
Saturday 21st March 2026, 10.30am - 12.00pm, £27
Join Coppice Collection for a delightful and creative Easter Egg Needle Felting workshop, where you can explore your artistic side and craft unique, woolly treasures to celebrate the season.
Introduction to Calligraphy with Joanna Bryan
Saturday 18th April 2026, 10.30am - 12pm, £15
Have your pens at the ready for this captivating workshop where you can explore calligraphy basics under the expert guidance of Joanna Bryan. A perfect workshop for those seeking a creative outlet or looking to try a new hobby.
Leather Keyring Crafting with PJC Leather
Saturday 23rd May 2026, 10.30am - 12.00pm, £18
Join PJC Leather for an engaging Leather Keyring Crafting workshop, where adults can learn essential leather crafting techniques to create a personalized keyring under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Celebrating Rugby Pride: Badges and Screen Printed Tote Bags
Saturday 27th June 2026, 10.30am - 12.00pm, £5
Embrace creativity and self-expression in celebration of Rugby Pride with this vibrant workshop where you'll design and create your own unique badges and screen-printed tote bags.
Festival of Archaeology: Guided Still Life with Joanna Bryan
Saturday 25th July 2026, 10.30am - 12pm, £15
Explore the art of guided still life, drawing inspiration from museum objects and this years' festival theme Archaeology and Nature. This engaging session is perfect for art enthusiasts eager to blend history and creativity.
Botanical Sun Printing
Saturday 15th August 2026, 10.30am - 12.00pm, £10
Soak in the art of botanical sun printing in this engaging workshop where you'll learn to create stunning prints using the power of sunlight and natural materials. Perfect for all skill levels, this hands-on experience will connect you with nature and unleash your creativity.
Lucet Braiding with Angela Pearson
Saturday 12th September 2026
More information coming soon...
Discover this ancient craft and create beautiful cords using traditional techniques in this Lucet Braiding workshop led by Angela Pearson during Heritage Open Days.
Pumpkin and Mushroom Needle Felting with Coppice Collection
Saturday 3rd October 2026, 10.30am - 12pm, £27
Transform wool fibers into charming autumnal creations in this Pumpkin and Mushroom Needle Felting workshop with Coppice Collection. A hands-on session offering a creative escape into the whimsical world of needle felting.