Step into a world of pattern, colour, and history with decorative artist Melissa White. Drawing inspiration from Elizabethan wall paintings and the free-spirited Bloomsbury Group, Melissa will share the secrets of her craft—layering paint, ageing and distressing surfaces, and conjuring the elusive patination of time. The result? A piece that feels as though it’s been cherished for generations.
During our day together we will be immersed in Melissa’s artistry. The wallpaper in our ‘classroom’ at The Bell was exclusively designed by her, and her work can be found in the design portfolios of Kit Kemp, Lewis & Wood, and Zoffany.
Guided by Melissa, you’ll experiment with painterly techniques before applying them to a beautiful lidded box. This will be your canvas for the day - a future heirloom in the making. Some participants craft theirs as gifts for christenings, weddings, or other milestones, though most find them far too precious to part with.
What you’ll love about this course
The joy of learning centuries-old painting traditions in a fresh, modern way.
Creating surfaces that whisper with history and character.
A chance to be fully immersed in an artist’s world, surrounded by her designs.
Going home with a unique hand-painted keepsake box.
The details
All tools and materials provided.
No experience needed, simply curiosity and imagination.
Small group size ensures plenty of individual guidance.
Delicious lunch, tea and coffee are included.
The course starts at 10am and finishes around 3.30pm.
At Curious House, we believe creativity is best experienced in good company, with inspiring teachers and a generous table—this course promises all of that, and more.
For a very special experience, enjoy a night or three at The Bell in Ticehurst. If you would like to bring a partner who doesn’t want to do a course, there are plenty of great things to do locally – a perfect staycation to explore the delights of the Kent/Sussex countryside or our favourite arty places locally.
Do try to book early, this is a very popular destination and much in demand. Let them know you are attending a course, and enjoy a free glass of bubbles on us with your dinner.
Booking direct should always offer you the best rate but occasionally the not so friendly algorithms thwart that ambition. If you find a better rate elsewhere, The Bell will always match it. Booking direct helps the business to thrive and how much nicer is it to talk to a real person who can help you with room choices and logistics. A great start to your stay.
Should you be unable to attend, for whatever reason - we are unable to offer refunds for our courses. You are welcome to transfer your course to friends or family, please let us know who will be attending in your place. Alternatively we will try to sell your place via our database and social media once the course has reached capacity. If successful, we will refund or offer an alternative course subject to availability. Please note we will deduct a 10% admin charge for any refunds that are made.
Step into a world of pattern, colour, and history with decorative artist Melissa White. Drawing inspiration from Elizabethan wall paintings and the free-spirited Bloomsbury Group, Melissa will share the secrets of her craft—layering paint, ageing and distressing surfaces, and conjuring the elusive patination of time. The result? A piece that feels as though it’s been cherished for generations.
During our day together we will be immersed in Melissa’s artistry. The wallpaper in our ‘classroom’ at The Bell was exclusively designed by her, and her work can be found in the design portfolios of Kit Kemp, Lewis & Wood, and Zoffany.
Guided by Melissa, you’ll experiment with painterly techniques before applying them to a beautiful lidded box. This will be your canvas for the day - a future heirloom in the making. Some participants craft theirs as gifts for christenings, weddings, or other milestones, though most find them far too precious to part with.
What you’ll love about this course
The joy of learning centuries-old painting traditions in a fresh, modern way.
Creating surfaces that whisper with history and character.
A chance to be fully immersed in an artist’s world, surrounded by her designs.
Going home with a unique hand-painted keepsake box.
The details
All tools and materials provided.
No experience needed, simply curiosity and imagination.
Small group size ensures plenty of individual guidance.
Delicious lunch, tea and coffee are included.
The course starts at 10am and finishes around 3.30pm.
At Curious House, we believe creativity is best experienced in good company, with inspiring teachers and a generous table—this course promises all of that, and more.
For a very special experience, enjoy a night or three at The Bell in Ticehurst. If you would like to bring a partner who doesn’t want to do a course, there are plenty of great things to do locally – a perfect staycation to explore the delights of the Kent/Sussex countryside or our favourite arty places locally.
Do try to book early, this is a very popular destination and much in demand. Let them know you are attending a course, and enjoy a free glass of bubbles on us with your dinner.
Booking direct should always offer you the best rate but occasionally the not so friendly algorithms thwart that ambition. If you find a better rate elsewhere, The Bell will always match it. Booking direct helps the business to thrive and how much nicer is it to talk to a real person who can help you with room choices and logistics. A great start to your stay.
Should you be unable to attend, for whatever reason - we are unable to offer refunds for our courses. You are welcome to transfer your course to friends or family, please let us know who will be attending in your place. Alternatively we will try to sell your place via our database and social media once the course has reached capacity. If successful, we will refund or offer an alternative course subject to availability. Please note we will deduct a 10% admin charge for any refunds that are made.
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