Celebrating 40 Years (1986 - 2026)


Louise Corke: "The Rainforest in pastels"
In this workshop we shall explore tree types, trunks, branches, leaves, flowers, fruit and variations of shape, texture, colour, size and attachment mechanisms in soft pastels. Two day workshop May 16-17, 2026 in Mackay, QLD (one day workshop option available).
Time & Location
16 May 2026, 8:30 am – 17 May 2026, 4:00 pm
Mackay Art Society, 2 Snow Wright Ct, Beaconsfield QLD 4740, Australia
Details:
This is an opportunity to explore the structural diversity of our rainforest trees as well as the inevitable growth that emanates from them or attaches to them.
Be inspired by a myriad of creative tree structures, which can be capitalised upon to create something truly special.
Every tree type has its own structural format. Understanding this is most helpful when it comes to portraying an authentic rendition of specific trees. Trunks, branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit all have variations of shape, texture, colour, size and attachment mechanisms. In this workshop we shall explore a few tree types to assist in a genuine representation of a specific tree type in an artwork.
Time will be spent exploring the community of plants and fungi that can attach to the trunks, branches, and roots. We shall discover how to render them as either the main event of the artwork or as a supporting element to lend context.
One day workshop option is available.
Skills addressed
‘Big picture’ processes and expressions
Establishing ‘small picture’ moments
Immersion in our subject matter at hand
Discovering how to portray the finer details
Outcomes
One to two artworks over the two days
Exercises to discover the ‘how’ of textural information
Materials List
Venue Information
on-site car park
disabled access
kitchen (microwave, fridge, kettle), crockery and cutlery
tea, coffee, milk and morning teas supplied
BYO lunch
chairs, tables, desktop and standing easels
sets of pastels, watercolours and acrylics for hire (from $10)
pastel paper (additional cost)
printing service (additional cost)
large screen for presentations
please bring an old towel or sheet to cover table and floor to keep it clean
Tutor Information

Drawing and painting have become Louise’s language for conveying her love and appreciation of the natural world. Her visual voice echoes her heartfelt responses to what she sees. She finds herself at her best when present with trees and in a garden where the stimulation of plants incites her imagination to roam with abandonment. Aiming to capture that emotional reaction has become her passion, with particular attention on how all things connect.
Her work is a response to what she has directly experienced and comes under the umbrella of responsive realism, though small aspects of abstraction may be found within. Her art is not limited to one medium, as she has dabbled in most for extended periods of time. Soft pastels have become her mainstay, though the lure of other art media continues to knock at her heart.
Seriously turning to art in the early 1990s, Louise has not wavered in excitement for her craft since. Studying under a world-class artist for seven years established a solid foundation for future studies internationally. Achievements and professional recognition have ensued, evidencing success in her desire to ascribe to excellence as opposed to perfection.
She has become a sought-after tutor, tour leader, and encourager. She has been able to influence many through her quiet, yet deep understanding of human nature, seeking always to adapt her teaching approach to meet the needs of her charges.
Louise’s main vision is to share her love for the natural world and to share this experience through empowering others to also engage in this wonderful way of connecting to something powerful, wholesome, and good, whether this be through appreciation of the art or through directly learning some skills for self-expression.
Cancellations and Refunds Policy
1. Introduction
The PSA is committed to a fair and transparent process for you, our members and guests. Please read this policy carefully before you finalise your booking.
2. Order Cancellations
2.1 Customer-Initiated Cancellations
You may cancel your booking by emailing treasurerozpastels@gmail.com. Please do not call us. If you cancel within one week of the event, you are generally not eligible for a full refund, but we may offer a partial credit toward future purchases,
valid for 12 months.
2.2 PSA-Initiated Cancellations
The PSA may cancel an event due to tutor illness, poor weather, or other circumstances beyond our control. The PSA will try to provide alternatives so you still get value for your fees, or we will issue a full refund within 48 hours, or a credit note if you prefer.
3. Refunds
3.1 Eligibility for Refunds
You may be eligible for a refund or credit note under Australian Consumer Law or PSA policy in the following circumstances:
The event is cancelled. We make every effort to notify you as soon as
possible.
No alternative arrangement offered by PSA suits your circumstances.
Emergency ill health requiring isolation or hospitalisation.
Unexpected illness or death of a family member.
Unexpected travel disruptions, such as flight cancellations; in these cases, a
credit note toward future purchases within 12 months may be offered.
Your place in the event can be taken by another person, either from a waitlist
or if you find a substitute yourself.
Other circumstances as required by law.
Refunds do not cover travel or accommodation costs. Please ensure your bookings are refundable and consider travel insurance.
3.2 Refund Process
We will refund you using the same method you used to pay within 48 hours of cancellation. If you paid by bank transfer, you may need to provide your banking details. For credit card payments made more than 90 days before the event, refunds may be issued by bank transfer.
3.3 Partial Refunds
Partial refunds may be offered at PSA’s discretion. This may take the form of a credit note toward future purchases within 12 months.
4. Change of Mind
We do not provide refunds for change of mind unless Australian Consumer Law requires it. Please check your calendar before booking, as double bookings are your responsibility.
5. Policy Updates
PSA may update this policy from time to time to reflect operational or legal changes. The latest version is always available on our website. This policy is governed by Australian law.
Tickets
Pastel Workshop M0526B
Ticket to 2-day workshop "Louise Corke: The Rainforest in Pastels"
From $230.00 to $260.00
$260.00
$230.00
Pastel Workshop M0526B
Ticket to one-day workshop "Louise Corke: The Rainforest in Pastels" (May 16, 2026)
From $115.00 to $130.00
$130.00
$115.00
Pastel Workshop M0526B
Ticket to one-day workshop "Louise Corke: The Rainforest in Pastels" (May 17, 2026)
From $115.00 to $130.00
$130.00
$115.00
Total
$0.00







