Tree of Life – Madhubani Folk Art Workshop with Studio Kavachi by Swati Sinha.
Discover the charm and tradition of Madhubani art, one of India’s most celebrated folk-art forms, known for its intricate patterns, vibrant detail, and storytelling, through symbolism.
In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the traditional techniques of Madhubani painting, adapted for modern expression using fine pens and paper. Explore how simple lines, rhythmic patterns, and expressive motifs come together to create a striking visual narrative.
By the end of the session, participants will leave with a finished artwork and deeper appreciation for the elegance and storytelling behind Madhubani folk art.
Age group and abilities to be taught
- 18 years and above
- Ideal for beginners and experienced artists
Course aims and skills/knowledge to be taught
- Learn the history and cultural significance of Madhubani folk art
- Practise traditional linework and decorative pattern making
- Experiment with composition and balance using pen and ink
- Create a unique Madhubani-inspired artwork to take home
Course outline for the day
Morning activity
- Introduction to Madhubani Art
- Understanding the composition
- Sketching the base drawing
Afternoon activity
- Outlining the drawing
- Creative repetitive patterns
- Final detailing and finishing
What you need to bring with you:
- An apron/overall
What we will provide:
- All materials required will be provided
- Pens
- Pencils
- Erasers
- Paper
Methods of assessing outcomes
- Feedback from tutor
- Group discussion
- Completion of evaluation form
Booking information
- To book please use the ticketing system below. Alternatively, please call the Gallery on 0121 236 4353 during opening hours to book over the phone. Bookings can also be made in person at the Gallery.
- Booking is essential. Payment in full is required at the time of booking to secure a place.
- Payments are non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Places are limited to 10 people per workshop unless stated otherwise. Allocation will take place on a first-come first-served basis.
- All workshops run from 11.00am – 4.00pm with a 40 minute lunch break, unless otherwise stated. Tea and coffee will be provided, participants need to provide their own lunch.
- Please inform the RBSA Gallery when booking of any health conditions or additional needs as some workshops might not be suitable.
- A valid student ID must be provided to receive a student discount.
Cancellation Policy
- If you, the customer cancels your booked workshop, we are unable to offer you a refund.
- Transfers to an alternative workshop may be possible depending on the circumstance and is at the discretion of the RBSA Gallery.
- In the event of under-subscription, workshops may be cancelled or re-arranged. We will give you as much notice as possible if this happens and you will be able to transfer to another course or receive a full refund. The RBSA is unable to refund additional expenses, such as travel and accommodation.
- If you are booked on a workshop and do not attend on the day, a refund will not be given.
Continual Professional Development (CPD) and Copyright
- We welcome bookings from people attending for Continual Professional Development (CPD). However, our workshops are not designed as CPD. If your employer is paying for the course or you require more details about what you expect from the course, please contact the Gallery in advance before booking.
- The workshop content and any information provided (e.g. handouts, guidance notes, etc.) are the intellectual property of the artist delivering the workshop. They should not be used or reproduced without permission from the artist (e.g. copying handouts to use in any classes workshop attendees might deliver themselves afterwards).
Other information
- The workshop will take place in the RBSA Gallery, floor 1. The space will be closed to visitors and will only be used by workshop attendees. However, staff and volunteers will need to walk through the space at various points in the day to access the staff office, which is located on the same floor.
- Attendees can leave their materials in the workshop space during their breaks but the RBSA will not be responsible for any loss or damages.
- Please bring a packed lunch. Alternatively, there are a number of cafés and sandwich shops within walking distance of the Gallery.
- Please bring an old shirt or apron to help protect your clothing.
- The continuous redevelopment work in the city centre has caused increased traffic, delays, and diversions in and around the City Centre. Therefore, please allow yourself plenty of travel time, plan your route, and check your parking arrangements.
- If you are travelling by car, please ensure your car is clean air zone compliant, or charges may occur.