insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 15 - May 2016 | Page 42

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT
IT’S never

too late TO LEARN cont.

Knitting

Piano
Learning to play the piano well is many people’s dream, and although it
looks difficult, it doesn’t need to be out of reach. Mastering the basics of
piano won’t, with plenty of practise, take long, although reaching the
impressive levels of grade 8 could take many years – but is that a problem?
Why not spend years learning something new? The fun is in the realising
that there is a lot to be learned, rather than reaching specific targets (although
if you do, congratulations!). Learning the piano will give you insights into
music you never knew existed, and, as well as giving you a new talent, will
also open up a brand new world.
For piano tutors in both Kent and Sussex, visit www.musicteachers.co.uk
to get an idea of the teachers near to you and what they specialise in.

Knitting is becoming increasingly popular amongst all age groups from the
tiniest of children (using specially adapted needles) to the older generation.
It’s a great way to unwind (pardon the woolly pun) and it can be done
anywhere – even on holiday. And getting to grips with the basics usually
takes no more than a handful of minutes – once you know how to cast on,
knit rows, and cast off again, you can get started. Unfortunately, knowing
only those aspects of how to knit will mean you can make scarves, squares
for a patchwork blanket, and not a lot else, so it’s important to be able to
understand knitting patterns and the different ways to use wool to create
beautiful creations. That’s where lessons or meeting in a group will help
immensely, until you’re ready to go it alone should you want to. Of course,
socialising over a cup of tea and a chat whilst you’re knitting is always
something to enjoy!
In Kent you can learn how to knit at www.craftsbee.com, and in Sussex
you can try www.thewoolbar.com. Alternatively, look around for local
groups in your nearest library or community centre.

Painting

Some people have a natural aptitude for art, and
for those people, picking up a paintbrush and
getting something beautiful down on canvas will
be easier than for others, but that doesn’t mean
only the naturally talented should ever paint. If
you are keen to create art then lessons will help,

and age won’t come into it. Dabbling at home is
fun, and perfectly fine, but if you join in with
lessons you will learn how to mix paints, how to
use light to your advantage, what paints to use
for which effects, and you will meet likeminded
people who love art as much as you do.

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Kent and Sussex artists are keen to pass on their
knowledge. Try Kent’s www.swanart.co.uk or
Sussex’s www.skyblueartclasses.co.uk for
watercolour, and if you prefer oil painting there is
www.pennybearman.co.uk in Kent, and
www.paulandterri.co.uk in Sussex.