Sketch and Stroll: guided art tour at Abbot Hall

Some people feel a deep connection to visual art by looking at it, some become connected from reading about the context of a work or learning about the artists themselves. Sometimes however, the best way to experience anything is to get hands on with it yourself. This is the approach being taken by Abbot Hall in their Sketch and Stroll tour. You will be led through the gallery taking inspiration from the artworks as you sketch your way around the Hall’s renowned pieces. 

The tour is open to all abilities of artistic skill. Whether you’re a complete novice who’s driven by fascination and curiosity or you’re a seasoned artist looking to meet like minded people and find some inspiration there’s plenty of chance to chat and learn from the people around you as well as discover something new in each piece you stop by. 

The tours are led by an artist guide who will be on hand to offer artistic tips and advice as well as try to encourage you to find alternative creative ways of connecting with Abbot Hall’s displays rather than just copying what you see in front of you. The guides are always keen for people to leave having created something they feel proud of and inspired by. 

Every monthly sketch and stroll will focus on a particular area of the Gallery allowing you to attend more than once knowing it’ll always be different. In the first half of the session you’ll be mark making and gathering inspiration from, as well as responding to, current displays. After this you’ll move into the Creative Space Cafe where you can work into the pieces in more detail whilst chatting and communally being creative. 

Abbott Hall is one of the jewels in Kendal’s heritage crown. After being built in 1759 and serving as the home of Colonel George Wilson. It was passed into public hands in 1897 and has been a haven of art and tranquillity for everyone’s benefit since.