Discover Fairy Wrens through Observation and Watercolour

Learn about the fascinating habits of fairy wrens and create your own watercolour painting in a single, immersive day.

Date: 13 June 2026
Time: Saturday, 9:30am – 4:30pm
Venue: NatureArt Lab, M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith

About the workshop

This one-day workshop guides participants through the full process of drawing and completing a watercolour painting of one or two fairy wrens. We’ll begin by exploring the structure, behaviour, and distinctive characteristics of these delightful birds through observation and quick sketching.

Students will then refine their drawings, transfer their final composition to watercolour paper, and develop their painting using a combination of wet and dry techniques. Step-by-step instruction is provided throughout the day, making the workshop suitable for all levels of experience.

Learning outcomes

Participants will gain:

• Basic drawing skills

• An understanding of the importance of field sketching

• Skills in preparing a drawing ready for painting

• Experience transferring drawings to watercolour paper

• Confidence using wet and dry watercolour techniques

• Knowledge of watercolour materials, including paints, papers, brushes, and palettes

• An introduction to basic colour theory and colour mixing

• Skills in applying paint to paper with control and intention
  
  

Suitable for: Ages 16+, beginners and those wishing to refresh or consolidate their practice.

Materials

A materials list will be provided after your booking. Please keep an eye out for our email and check your junk or spam folders, as some course emails may be filtered.

Administration

Free dedicated parking is available onsite. A café and supermarket are located within a five-minute walk (please check opening hours).

About the tutor

Lesley Wallington is an award-winning professional artist and tutor with over 30 years of teaching experience. Her studies in water-based media at the ANU School of Art have informed an innovative and confident approach to painting across a range of mediums. With a background in Biology, Ecology, and Mathematics, Lesley brings together a deep appreciation for art, science, and the natural world.

As an educator, Lesley combines theory and technical knowledge with clear, practical instruction in watercolour, gouache, pencil, ink, and collage. Her extensive experience across age groups and skill levels allows her to inspire and guide students while supporting the development of each individual’s unique style.

NatureArt Lab Awards

2022, Telstra Best of Business Award Winner for Promoting Sustainability, ACT; and National Finalist Award

2024, Telstra Best of Business Award Winner for Building Communities, ACT; and National Finalist Award

2025, Telstra Best of Business Award Finalist for Promoting Sustainability, ACT; and Finalist for Accelerating Women, ACT

2025, Awards Australia Semi-Finalist for Connecting Communities, NSW and ACT; and Semi-Finalist for Small Business Award NSW and ACT. 

 Image credit: Lesley Wallington