inky faces workshops
A few hours, a lot of water, and the technique behind the series. You'll leave with faces of your own and no idea how they happened.
what happens
These are hands-on sessions where I teach the ink-and-watercolour method behind the Inky Faces series. Not how to copy my paintings — how to work wet, let the paint move, and stop before you ruin it. That last part takes the longest to learn.
I run them regularly around London, including at the In-Residence lifestyle store in Islington. Dates go out on Instagram as they're confirmed.
who it's for
Anyone. Genuinely — people arrive convinced they can't draw and leave with something they want to frame, because the technique does a lot of the work. If you already paint, you'll spend the session unlearning your instinct to control the water.
All materials are provided. Bring nothing but a willingness to make a mess.
the session
-
Warming up
Loose marks, no faces yet. Getting used to how much water is too much, which is more than you think.
-
The first wash
Every Inky Faces portrait starts wet. We lay the ground and watch what the paint does before deciding anything.
-
Finding the face
Ink into wet paper, and the features arrive on their own. This is the part people don't believe until it happens in front of them.
-
Knowing when to stop
The hardest lesson and the most useful one. We look at everyone's work together and talk about the moment each piece was finished.
sessions
Dates and prices are announced on Instagram first — places tend to go quickly. For a private session, message me with rough numbers and I'll quote.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be able to draw?
No. The technique is loose and forgiving, and most of what makes an Inky Faces portrait work is the water rather than the drawing. Complete beginners do well.
Do I need to bring materials?
No — paper, inks, watercolour and brushes are all provided. Wear something you don't mind splashing.
Where are the workshops held?
Around London, including at the In-Residence lifestyle store in Islington. The venue is confirmed with each set of dates.
When is the next one?
Dates are posted on Instagram as they're confirmed. Follow along there and you'll see them first.
Can you run one for my group?
Yes. Private sessions work well for birthdays, hen parties and team days. Message me with rough numbers and a date and I'll tell you what's possible.
What will I take home?
Whatever you paint. Most people finish two or three faces in a session and take all of them.
hear about the next one
Workshop dates go out on Instagram first. Follow along, or message me if you'd like a private session for your group.
@inkyfacesfashionbunnysmith