Practical Fine Art for Children: Winter/Spring
2026-02-28 10:00 - 2026-03-28 11:30 (Europe/London)
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Sculpture: Form, Expression, and Abstraction
This hands-on course introduces students to the fundamentals of sculptural form, from basic
construction techniques to expressive abstraction and facial modelling. Learners explore
materials, texture, and proportion while developing spatial awareness and creative
confidence.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
â€¢ Understand basic sculptural materials and tools.
â€¢ Construct and model simple three-dimensional forms.
â€¢ Apply principles of proportion and anatomy to facial features.
â€¢ Experiment with abstraction and expressive forms.
â€¢ Produce finished sculptures that reflect individual creativity.
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kittyâ€™s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and Kingâ€™s School.
Winter/Spring: 28 February â€“ 28 March
Spring: 18 April â€“ 16 May
Summer: 6 June â€“ 4 July
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Coffee With a Curator
2026-03-04 13:30 - 14:30
Grab a cuppa and join one of our curators for a lunch-time chat, as they introduce you to one of our collectionâ€™s objects in the comfort of The Wilson Kitchen.
Wednesday 4 March
Cheltenham’s buildings – mysteries and histories! Cheltenham is more than just a Regency town, hear stories from The Wilson’s Curator of Art featuring Cheltenham’s famous donut to stories of shopping and the high street in times gone by!
Tickets are also available for purchase on the day of the event at the cafe till.
Book Now

Wilson Nights: UoG Takeover!
2026-03-04 18:00 - 21:00
University of Gloucestershire Popular Music students take over this month’s Wilson Nights with a range of site specific audio and visual works, performances and installations!
ParklandÂ Records:Â Sonic Placemaking
AÂ seriesÂ ofÂ site-specificÂ audio-visual works.
Process as Practice
An exhibitionÂ ofÂ musicalÂ sketches and experiments exploringÂ process-based creativity.
Paula Rego: In Sound
Responding to Paula Rego: Visions of English Literature, songwriting students use live looping to build and reshape musical material.

Cheltenham's BIG Museum Project Online Workshop
2026-03-04 19:00 - 20:30
We will be holding 3 online workshops over the next few months to give our online communities a chance to participate in Cheltenhamâ€™s BIG Museum Project. Hear about what the data is saying so far, learn about the history of The Wilson, discuss key questions and step into the shoes of a curator by having a go at writing your own interpretation of an object in the collection.
This is your chance to have your say about the future of your museum.
Friday 30th January, 2026 â€“ 1:00pm â€“ 2:30pm GMT
Monday 16th February, 2026 â€“ 10am â€“ 11:30am GMT
Wednesday 4th March, 2026 â€“ 7pm â€“ 8:30pm GMT
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/37807475199020?p=GwhtwcyCeFoC5qWGCi
Meeting ID: 378 074 751 990 20
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Cheltenham’s BIG Museum Project is made possible using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UKâ€™s heritage. Thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to create a space that celebrates Cheltenhamâ€™s heritage.

Join now

Memory Lane CafÃ©
2026-03-05 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia!
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 8 January
Thursday 5 February
Thursday 5 March
Thursday 2 April
Thursday 7 May
Thursday 4 June
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Rego's Story World: Home Educator's Drama Workshop
2026-03-12 10:30 - 12:00
Designed for home educators, this workshop brings Paula Regoâ€™s Jane Eyre to life! Using her artworks for inspiration and objects from the museumâ€™s handling collection, families will explore characters, emotions, and storytelling through playful drama and creative storytelling.
All levels of experience and ability are welcome. Please wear clothes and shoes that you can comfortably move in.This workshop is designed for ages 7â€“12. Younger or older children are welcome if parents feel the session is suitable for their childâ€™s level.
Accompanying adults do not require a ticket but please note this is not a drop off session.
Facilitated by Jennifer Taylor, from Thrive Drama.
Book Here

Curator Led Tour: Paula Rego
2026-03-18 13:00 - 14:00
Join Senior Curator of Art and Exhibitions Layla Gatens for an insiderâ€™s guided tour of Paula Rego: Visions of English Literature.
Explore some of Regoâ€™s most ambitious print series and gain fresh insight into how the artist transformed familiar stories into startling, imaginative, and often unsettling images. Layla will share expert perspectives on Regoâ€™s creative process and the rich literary themes in her work, to help you see the exhibition in a whole new way.
Donâ€™t miss this opportunity to dive deeper into one of the most compelling artistic voices of our time.
Tour starts at 1pm, from the bottom of the staircase on the ground floor.
Image Credit
Little Miss Muffet II, 1989, Hand coloured etching and aquatint, Paper and Image: 52 x 38 cm â€“ 20 Â½ x 15 in, Edition of 50
Book Now

Ideas Assembly with Helena Doyle
2026-03-21 14:00 - 16:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
The Idea’s Assembly is a cross between a peopleâ€™s assembly and a creative think tank. Combining group discussions with hands-on tasks this playful workshop is designed to get participants generating ideas together. Led by 2025 artist in residence at The Wilson, Helena Doyle. Find out more about Helena here.
This workshop will take place in The Foyle. It is a drop-in and is free to attend.

Easter Trail
2026-03-28 10:00 - 2026-04-12 17:00
Hop along to the Wilson this Easter for a fun family adventure!
Our Easter Trail is bursting with clues and plenty of fun. Follow the trail through the galleries, solve the puzzles, and keep your eyes peeled for hidden treasures around the museum. Complete the trail to earn a sweet reward and enjoy an adventure packed with creativity, curiosity, and Easter cheer. Perfect for little explorers!
Tickets can also be purchased on the day from the cafÃ©.
Book Now

Where Next? Cheltenham Family Book Launch
2026-03-31 10:00 - 13:00
This Easter, weâ€™re so excited to launch a brand-new childrenâ€™s book celebrating Cheltenham!
Where Next? Cheltenham is a beautifully illustrated picture book that brings the townâ€™s much-loved landmarks to life. From Pittville Park and Neptuneâ€™s Fountain to the Everyman Theatre, children will delight in spotting familiar places and saying, â€œIâ€™ve been there!â€
Join us for a relaxed, family-friendly launch event at The Wilson Art Gallery, Cheltenham.
Drop in to buy a copy of the book, enjoy story time, colour-in Cheltenham-themed illustrations and take part in a fun pigeon hunt around the gallery!
No booking required â€“ just drop in!
Perfect for children aged 2-8, and a lovely way to spend a spring morning together.

Easter Crafts for Families
2026-03-31 11:00 - 16:15
Celebrate the season with a mix of fun, hands-on craft activities the whole family can enjoy!
Children and grown-ups will get the chance to create unique Easter-themed crafts and take home their own special keepsakes.
Sessions run for 1 hour at 11.00am, 12.15pm, 14.00pm, 15.15pm
Perfect for children of all ages.
One ticket required per child, adults go free.
Please note this is a family event, not a drop-off.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - Easter Holidays
2026-04-01 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
â€¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
â€¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
â€¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you donâ€™t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
â€¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well â€“ exploring can be hungry work!
â€¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
â€˜Artyâ€™ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day if you wish.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Playful Shadows: Family Drama Workshop
2026-04-07 10:30 - 12:00
Join us for an exciting journey into Paula Regoâ€™s world of fairy tales with Thrive Drama. This workshop will focus on play and telling tales, using Paula Regoâ€™s prints as our inspiration. We will begin with fun warm up games to help everyone relax and develop trust before heading up to the gallery for our inspiration. Weâ€™ll use the art we see and ideas about fairy tales, along with items from the museumâ€™s handling collection, to use to create our own physical theatre â€˜bookâ€™ of characters and tell our stories.
Drama is all about fun, skills and confidence! Children of all levels of experience and ability are welcome. They will need to wear clothes that they can move easily in and comfortable shoes. This is a drop-off session.
Facilitated by Jennifer Taylor, from Thrive Drama.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - Easter Holidays
2026-04-08 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependant) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
â€¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
â€¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
â€¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you donâ€™t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
â€¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well â€“ exploring can be hungry work!
â€¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
â€˜Artyâ€™ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day if you wish.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Make A Scene: Drop-In Family Workshop
2026-04-11 11:00 - 14:30
Make A Scene: Drop-In Family Workshop Inspired by Paula Rego
11am – 12.30pm
2pm – 3.30pm
FREE
Drop in and get creative with one of the Wilsonâ€™s artists in residence, Alice Biggadike, in this relaxed, family-friendly workshop inspired by the Paula Rego exhibition.
Choose a character to colour in or design your own, then create a scene for them using collage, colour and drawing. Think about where your character is, whatâ€™s happening around them, and how a single scene can capture a story.
This informal drop-in session is all about playing with illustration, characters and scenes. Suitable for children and families of all ages – no experience needed, just come along and create!
About Alice
Alice Biggadike is a multidisciplinary artist based in Cheltenham. She uses sculpture, painting and textiles to present a surreal interpretation of the world around her.

Practical Fine Art for Adults: Introduction to Landscape Drawing and Painting
2026-04-17 13:30 - 2026-05-15 15:30
Join our Practical Fine Art for Beginners course and unlock your creativity!
Our lessons are tailored for those with little-to-no experience in art, but feel the desire to discover and create. At the end of the course, you will have honed your skills and gained confidence in your ability to produce your own artwork. Start your journey as an artist today.
Introduction to Landscape Drawing and Painting: From Line to Colour
A beginnerâ€™s guide to capturing landscapes through both drawing and watercolour painting.
Students will learn how to observe natural forms, build composition, and use pencil and
watercolour techniques to create expressive landscape artworks.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
â€¢ Understand key techniques for drawing landscapes in pencil.
â€¢ Use watercolour to suggest atmosphere, light, and texture.
â€¢ Apply principles of perspective, composition, and tone.
â€¢ Combine drawing and painting effectively.
â€¢ Create both observational and expressive landscape studies.
About Kitty McLeod
The tutor, Kitty McLeod, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Dates 2026
Winter Term: 9 January â€“ 6 February
Winter/Spring: 27 February â€“ 27 March
Spring: 17 April â€“ 15 May
Summer: 5 June â€“ 3 July
Fridays, 1.30pm â€“ 3.30pm
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Introduction to Landscape Drawing and Painting
2026-04-18 10:00 - 2026-05-16 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Landscape Drawing and Painting: From Line to Colour
A beginnerâ€™s guide to capturing landscapes through both drawing and watercolour painting.
Students will learn how to observe natural forms, build composition, and use pencil and
watercolour techniques to create expressive landscape artworks.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
â€¢ Understand key techniques for drawing landscapes in pencil.
â€¢ Use watercolour to suggest atmosphere, light, and texture.
â€¢ Apply principles of perspective, composition, and tone.
â€¢ Combine drawing and painting effectively.
â€¢ Create both observational and expressive landscape studies.
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kittyâ€™s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and Kingâ€™s School.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Dates 2026
Spring: 18 April â€“ 16 May
Summer: 6 June â€“ 4 July
Saturdays, 10am â€“ 11.30am
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Home Educators Workshop: Ink and Imagination
2026-04-23 10:30 - 15:30
Home Educators Workshop: Ink and Imagination
Join us at the Wilson Art Gallery & Museum for a creative, hands-on workshop celebrating the upcoming Paula Rego exhibition!
Together weâ€™ll explore Regoâ€™s powerful imagery in the galleries, her artistic techniques, and the cultural context of her era, with a special focus on the groundbreaking role of women artists.
Participants will experiment with pen-and-ink drawing, add expressive colour washes, and learn simple printmaking techniques. Every young artist will create their own unique print to take home. This engaging session is perfect for home-educating families looking to connect art history with practical creativity.
Accompanying adults do not require a ticket but please note this is not a drop off session and adults are encouraged to join in activities with their children.
10.30am to 12.30pm (4 to 9 year olds)
1.30pm to 3.30pm (9 to 14 year olds)
*You will notice an overlap in ages for the two sessions. As you know your child, please choose which session you think would be best for them.*
Book Now

Arts and Crafts Gallery Tour
2026-04-26 11:30 - 12:30
With the reopening of our Museum Wing in October 2026, the Arts and Crafts Gallery will be closed from June to accommodate object moves and a new entrance to the Museum.
Before it closes, we would like to offer visitors the chance to take a more in-depth look at the collection, with guided tours from local Arts and crafts expert Sarah Middleton. She will take you on a journey through the gallery, exploring the makers and objects in more detail, sharing stories that bring the objects to life.
You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the Arts and Crafts Movement as well as the makers and their relationships and collaborative practice, behind the objects.
About Sarah
Sarah Middleton is a painter, art historian and lecturer. She studied Italian and History of Art at UCL and courses at The Courtauld and Slade School of Fine Art. Sarah works as a communications consultant and lectures all over the Cotswolds, including giving Arts & Crafts Tours in Painswick.
www.sarah-middleton.co.uk
Book Now

Sunrise Sessions
2026-05-05 07:30 - 08:30
Join award-winning portrait photographer and Artist-in-Residence at The Wilson, Steven Tatlow, for two free drop-in portrait sessions at Park Campus, Cheltenham.
Taking place on 28th April and 5th May, between 7:30 â€“ 8:30am, these sessions will be capturing people in the soft, golden light of early morning. Open to everyone.
Bring along an object or item of clothing that holds meaning for you.
Spaces are limited, so email stevetatlow@outlook.comÂ with your preferred date and time to book a slot.
PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS AT UNIVERSITY OF GLOUCESTERSHIRE PARK CAMPUS GL50 2RH

Coffee with a Curator
2026-05-06 13:30 - 14:00
These informal sessions held in The Wilson cafÃ© lounge area at lunchtime on the first Wednesday of the month give you the chance to join one of our curators for a half hour chat followed by questions as they introduce pieces from The Wilsonâ€™s extensive collections.
Wednesday 6th May
Social History Curator Megan Nass introduces objects from the history of Cheltenham’s businesses, including company bill heads.
Find out more about Cheltenham’s rich heritage and stories of growth and development and take a closer look at objects that have never been on display before. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the topic.
Ticket price includes a hot drink.
Tickets are also available on the day from the cafÃ©.
Book Now

Wilson Nights: The Encore
2026-05-06 18:00 - 21:00
The Wilsonâ€™s artist-led events, WILSON NIGHTS, on the first Wednesday of every month from 6pm til 9pm.
Music through the lens from 6.30-7.30pm
Experience a dynamic projection of local photographers capturing the Gloucestershire music scene – accompanied by a live DJ set from DJ JAKEY.
Live Music from Izzy Bayford and Matty Fulford from 7.30-9pm
Live performances from Izzy Bayford and Matty Fulford, bringing the energy of the local music scene into the space.
Running (Stitch) With It: Creative Sewing from 6-8.30pm in The Foyle
Join Resident Artists Jennifer Hughes to use varied and vibrant fabric pieces to relax creatively through stitch.
Sitting among intriguing objects from the Wilson’s Handling Collection, we can respond to the qualities of the pieces and the conversations they inspire. Alternatively, allow the materials and the moment to lead your sewing.
We will be using simple running stitch and the activity is suitable for new or experienced sewers. All materials are provided and supportive guidance will be available.
Audio Postcards & Zine Pages from 6-8.30pm in the CafÃ©
Drop-In workshop with Meg Dunford co-founder of The Just in Case Zine Library.
Join artist Meg Dunford for a hands-on workshop where youâ€™ll design your own zine page exploring creative barriers and ambitions. Youâ€™ll also have the chance to record an anonymous audio postcard â€” becoming part of a collective artwork.
Plus: browse the Just in Case Zine Library.
No experience needed. All materials provided.
Meg Dunford is a Gloucester-based community artist with over 15 years of experience in creative wellbeing and community practice. Working across the South West, Meg brings a warm, inclusive approach rooted in meeting people exactly where they are – nurturing creative confidence, fostering connection, and opening doors to creativity for everyone.
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra in Arts & Crafts from 6-8pm
Love experimenting with sound and music? Join this friendly group and dive into the world of improvised music. No instrument? No problem! There will be something for you to use, or bring your own. Open to all abilities, from beginners to professionals.
ðŸŽŸï¸ Entry and all performances are FREE – no need to book.
ðŸ¥³ We can’t wait for what is set to be a lively night at The Wilson!

Memory Lane
2026-05-07 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 7 May
Thursday 4 June
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Women in the Arts and Crafts: Gallery Tour
2026-05-09 11:00 - 12:00
Take a more in-depth look at the influential and often overlooked women in the collection and the wider movement, with guided tours from local Arts and crafts expert Sarah Middleton. She will take you on a journey through the gallery, exploring the makers and objects in more detail, sharing stories that bring the objects to life.
You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the Arts and Crafts Movement as well as the makers and their relationships and collaborative practice, behind the objects.
About Sarah
Sarah Middleton is a painter, art historian and lecturer. She studied Italian and History of Art at UCL and courses at The Courtauld and Slade School of Fine Art. Sarah works as a communications consultant and lectures all over the Cotswolds, including giving Arts & Crafts Tours in Painswick.
www.sarah-middleton.co.uk
Book Now

Paula Rego, Secrets & Stories - Film Screening
2026-05-09 13:00 - 14:30
A unique and intimate insight into the life and work of Paula Rego, directed by her son, filmmaker Nick Willing.
This powerful documentary reveals the personal experiences and political convictions that shaped Regoâ€™s extraordinary artistic vision.
Runtime 1hour 32 minutes
Book Now

Groundbreaking Women in Art
2026-05-09 15:00 - 16:00
Join art historian Sarah Middleton on a journey looking at significant female artists and artworks of the 20th & 21st century. For too long, the history of art has been told through a male lens, often censoring, omitting or overlooking female perspectives and expressions.
Paula Regoâ€™s heartfelt, raw, political and often jarring artworks are the starting point for this lecture exploring themes of censorship, fear, injustice, motherhood, love and desire. These artworks articulate what it is to be a woman, the context in which they lived their lives and documenting their inner selves onto canvas.
These artists stand in their power, no longer seen as lesser than their famous partners â€“ Lee Krasner, Frida Kahlo and Georgia Oâ€™Keeffe are examples of artists stepping out from the shadows of a male dominated landscape. Their resilience, ingenuity, bravery and deep commitment to their craft leaves a lasting legacy on the history of art.
About Sarah
Sarah Middleton is a painter, art historian and lecturer. She studied Italian and History of Art at UCL and courses at The Courtauld and Slade School of Fine Art. Sarah works as a communications consultant and lectures all over the Cotswolds, including giving Arts & Crafts Tours in Painswick. www.sarah-middleton.co.uk
Book Now

Expressive Drawing Inspired by Paula Rego
2026-05-09 16:15 - 17:45
Explore storytelling through drawing in this hands-on workshop led by artist Dougal Kirkland. Inspired by Paula Rego, participants will begin from a story and use intuitive mark-making to explore the feeling and location of a narrative and how it feels to inhabit these environments.
The workshop will then focus on developing and combining characters, using costumes from the Wilson collection to draw from.
Open to all levels, the session encourages playful experimentation and personal expression through drawing.
About Dougal
Dougal Kirkland is an artist and printmaker interested in landscape, archeology and folklore. He studied at the Royal Drawing School where he was awarded the ACS drawing prize and where he currently teaches. Dougal is passionate about drawing and enjoys exploring ways of drawing with others.
www.dougalkirkland.co.uk
Book Now

Creative Explorers - May Half Term
2026-05-27 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
â€¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
â€¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
â€¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you donâ€™t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
â€¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well â€“ exploring can be hungry work!
â€¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
â€˜Artyâ€™ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Arts and Crafts Gallery Tour
2026-05-31 14:00 - 15:00
Take a more in-depth look at the collection, with guided tours from local Arts and Crafts expert Sarah Middleton. She will take you on a journey through the gallery, exploring the makers and objects in more detail, sharing stories that bring the objects to life.
You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the Arts and Crafts Movement as well as the makers and their relationships and collaborative practice, behind the objects.
About Sarah
Sarah Middleton is a painter, art historian and lecturer. She studied Italian and History of Art at UCL and courses at The Courtauld and Slade School of Fine Art. Sarah works as a communications consultant and lectures all over the Cotswolds, including giving Arts & Crafts Tours in Painswick.
www.sarah-middleton.co.uk
Book Now

Coffee With a Curator
2026-06-03 01:30 - 14:00
These informal sessions held in The Wilson cafÃ© lounge area at lunchtime on the first Wednesday of the month give you the chance to join one of our curators for a half hour chat followed by questions as they introduce pieces from The Wilsonâ€™s extensive collections.
Wednesday 3rd June
Drawn to Nature
Natureâ€™s long-lasting influence on artists, the draw of the Gloucestershire landscape and its natural resources, will be the focus of this informal talk. Come and see glimpses into the work of artists such as Freda Derrick, Phyllis Barron and Dorothy Larcher who were directly inspired by the local area and the opportunities it offered for craft and design and creativity.
Ticket price includes a hot drink.
Tickets are also available on the day from the cafÃ©.
