Textile Design: Matisse and Morris Botanical Tote Bag

Hi, I'm Georgina Derby. I'm a qualified art teacher with years of experience teaching Art lessons. From a young age, I loved the joy of painting. But as I got older, I found it difficult to stay motivated to continue, and that work and online distractions were taking over my time. I've taught Art at a range of secondary schools in London and Twickenham. However, I still felt like I was missing out.I wanted to create a relaxed social experience for people to connect with other locals. I founded The Fauve Palette to bring painting into social, inspiring spaces. I want to share the joys of a creative life, how it can transform your mind, allowing you to switch off from work, and bring you back to the present moment. As I've gotten older, daily opportunities to interact with the world around us feel more and more confined to a screen. I'm hoping that, like me you'll love the chance to meet new people and find a new creative hobby.I personally curate and lead every workshop. All of the painting themes relate to a creative reset, painting stunning scenes inspired by the beauty of the natural world. Taking the name from the Fauves, the early 20th-century 'wild beast' painters like Henri Matisse who broke all the rules and embraced bold, unapologetic colour to paint for the pure joy of it. I've designed each workshop to enable painters of all skill levels to unlock their creativity, playing with colour and expressive painting techniques. My aim is that you’ll leave these sessions not just with a finished canvas, but with an inspired mind and a recharged spirit. I personally believe in the transformational power of painting to build your confidence and inspire your mind. Painting is a form of active mindfulness, a chance to slow down, unplug and enjoy the creative process. There are no mistakes in Art, only happy accidents.