Exploring Mixed Media Concertina Sketchbooks with Karen Stamper at Kettle's Yard

Recently, we hosted a mixed media concertina sketchbook workshop with artist and former art teacher Karen Stamper at the inspiring Kettle's Yard in Cambridge, bringing together art teachers for a day of experimentation, creativity and practical classroom inspiration.

The workshop focused on building expressive sketchbook pages using layers, texture and mixed media techniques, encouraging participants to let go of perfection and enjoy the creative process.

Breaking the Fear of the Blank Page

Karen began by addressing something many artists and students experience, the fear of the empty sketchbook.

Rather than worrying about creating a perfect drawing, participants were encouraged to fill the page quickly with colour, texture and mark-making. By removing the pressure of the blank page, the sketchbook immediately became a place for exploration rather than perfection.

Building Layers

With the first layer established, the workshop moved on to building depth through mixed media.

Participants experimented with a wide range of materials and techniques, layering paint, collage, printed papers and expressive marks to create rich, textured surfaces. Karen demonstrated how each layer doesn't need to be precious – instead, it provides the foundation for the next stage of the creative process.

Adding Detail

Once the backgrounds had developed, participants began working back into their pages.

Using drawing materials, cut paper elements and collage, they gradually introduced focal points and finer details. Karen showed how allowing the background to evolve first creates far more interesting compositions than starting with a detailed drawing alone. 

Finding Inspiration

Alongside the practical workshop, attendees enjoyed a guided tour of Kettle's Yard House, discovering its remarkable collection of modern art and thoughtfully curated interiors. The visit provided plenty of inspiration, demonstrating how texture, colour and found objects can work together to tell visual stories. 

A Day to Create

By the end of the workshop, sketchbooks were filled with vibrant layered pages, new techniques and plenty of ideas to take back into the classroom.

Many teachers commented on how valuable it was to spend time creating their own artwork again, while Karen's approachable teaching style and experience as a former art teacher meant every technique could be easily adapted for classroom practice. 

A huge thank you to Karen Stamper and everyone who joined us for such an inspiring day of mixed media exploration. We look forward to welcoming you to another Specialist Crafts workshop soon.