Phil has been getting better at comedy since March 1987. One of these days he may just get it right. Until then Phil just keeps trying. If at first you don’t succeed, try and try your best. This is a tour of Phil, trying his best! Age Guidance: 18+ only

Festival favourite Lucy returns with a brand new show about the power of letting yourself go - in every sense. Whether that means embracing your wrinkles and love handles whilst living in a slanket, or having a couple of babychams and dancing like nobody’s watching (and if you’re a middle aged woman, they’re probably not). It’s also about letting go of the person you’ve always thought you are, and using your midlife crisis to pursue new goals and reinvent yourself. “Impeccably punchlined anecdotes … genuinely delightful” - The Telegraph “A treat from start to finish” - The Herald

A one-day workshop to teach total beginners how to write beautifully! Tutor Rosie will teach you how to write in the modern calligraphy type and harness your own style, using loads of different mediums and surfaces. This course will help give you the confidence to use your new calligraphy skills for a wide range of uses such as wall art, gifts, decorations, wedding stationery and signage and lots more! You’ll start by throwing out textbooks, literally! Remember at school when we learnt how to write in straight lines with each letter being the same size? We’re going to do the complete opposite! Start by learning to write each letter in capital and lower case in the calligraphy style. Rosie will demonstrate each swirl, swoosh and flick that makes a calligraphy alphabet look impressive and you'll practise how to give each letter its own identity before starting to join the letters up to make words much more exciting than primary school writing we promise! Give each word flare and add embellishments to create your calligraphy's unique look. Once you’ve harnessed the letters and words we'll start being really creative and think about what we'll use them for: wedding stationery/signage, beautiful quotes or names that can be framed and turned into wall art, greetings cards, personalised decorations, small signs and much, much more. Learn how to make them look professional yet personal, using a range of drawing/writing media.

Adventures in Art is our weekly multi-disciplinary art workshop for adults. The sessions are usually in Studio 4 on the first floor, accessible via lift, stairs or external ramp. We have a variety of tutors who will deliver 3 or 4 weeks in a row, and then a different tutor will take over with a new creative discipline/project, which could include printmaking, painting, drawing, sculpture, clay, collage, journaling and more. Although there is no need to book in advance, we do advise booking ahead of each session if you can, just to ensure a place is available for you, as places are limited and sessions do fill up! No experience is necessary - everyone is very welcome. It’s a great way of having a go and trying new things in a very friendly and relaxed group, working at your own pace, supported by an experienced tutor. All materials are provided - no need to bring anything with you except maybe an apron or old clothes, as some activities can get messy!

Develop your piano-playing skills in this relaxed and informal monthly performers’ club. Join pianist Jude Richardson on Sunday afternoons and/or Thursday evenings in a casual piano group class dedicated to helping you gain confidence as a pianist and performer. You can bring finished pieces, music you've just started looking at, original compositions or anything else you like to play on piano. Each person is given an opportunity to play their piece and hear from an audience of fellow pianists what they enjoyed about the performance. Jude offers brief feedback and ensures that each performer is given the space and time they need to achieve their best. If you end up deciding not to play, there's no pressure as you can sit back, enjoy the other performances, and learn from the conversations and feedback. Additional activities include sight reading duets, piano accompanying with solo singers and instrumentalists, and the opportunity to receive brief one-to-one feedback from Jude. All ages and skill levels welcome. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. The club aims to increase opportunities for developing your performance skills, support nervous players to play in a friendly and relaxed setting, encourage alternative styles of performance and simply share and spread the love of piano playing to form a growing community in Leicester. Formed in 2024, the group now meets in its new home at Attenborough Arts Centre, part of the University of Leicester. ”The group is the most wonderful way for like-minded enthusiastic piano people to get together to hear the brilliant pieces being worked on. No matter the skill level, you are welcomed with open arms. This is a great safe place to be inspired to become the best that you can be.” - Piano Club member

Drag mechanic Natalie Spanner would like to teach you all about holistic car care – how to look after our cars, but also ourselves – and invite you to get down and dirty under the bonnet. She’s also here to help Matt navigate childhood memories of the time just after Matt’s parents divorced, when everything seemed like an adventure. The time Matt and their dad were closest. These two worlds collide in a show which is both outrageous and touching, laugh-out-loud and heartfelt, interactive and caring. A show about family breakups, learning car maintenance and choosing the right shade of lipstick to do it in. Fixing is a one person show performed by Matt Miller and co-created by Matt and Peader Kirk.

Take Flight is a stunning aerial theatre show for -2 year olds and their grown ups. The story follows a musical mother bird as their baby hatches, grows and explores, navigating the challenges of hunger, sleep and play. Culminating in a beautiful aerial moment the mother bird supports her baby to leave the nest & take flight. This multi-sensory, interactive show ignites the imagination and curiosity of babies who are then invited into the space with the performers to explore the baby safe set and props, including having a swing in the silks. We worked with development psychologist Dr Valentina Sclafani from Lincoln University to ensure the content is positive for babies in terms of neurological & motor skills development & encourages a strong Bond between babies and their grown ups. This show is 35 min long, plus a 15 min stay and play.

Young performers from all over the country perform in our live showcases, aiming for a spot in the Grand Final in London’s West End! Judged by a panel of West End Performers, each contestant will perform a song and receive feedback on how to improve and build on their performance.

An evening with Shane, Lee & hookie Shane Williams - Lee Byrne - James Hook. As the great Muhammad Ali once said - “Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It's not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything.” Here are three sportsmen - former international rugby players serving Wales brilliantly along with the Lions and The Ospreys. But not just superb sportsmen - they are also the best of friends. During this evening we’ll hear all about their friendship along with the tales on and off the rugby field. Without doubt it’ll be an evening to remember.

A series of five talks with discussion time for anyone with an interest in understanding and challenging their views on art. These accessible talks with discussion time are intended for anyone interested in developing their understanding of art, whatever their existing level of knowledge. Some historical context for individual artists and schools of art will be given but the emphasis will be on appreciating individual works of art and how and why they were created. You will not be expected to like every painting, print, or piece of sculpture seen on screen but you will be able to challenge the ideas and arguments presented. The five talks will run on Wednesday mornings, on the following dates: Wednesday 22 April: Leading women wood engravers of the 20th and 21st Centuries. Why are they so much admired? Wednesday 6 May: The very different landscapes of the 19th Century English Ancients compared with the Russian Impressionists. How national culture and topography produced very different depictions of the landscape. Wednesday 27 May: The lure of Graeco-Roman legends for Renaissance painters. The drama and detail shown by leading artists of the time is examined within the broad context of the legends themselves. Wednesday 10 June: The purity and humanism of the work of Fra Angelico Dominican Monk and Painter (1395-1455). Wednesday 24 June: Tirzah Garwood (1908-1951) Sophisticated Naïve in war-time Britain compared with Berhe Morisot (1841-1895) the only French woman Impressionist. Very different styles but delightful outcomes.

Develop sculptural ideas and experiment with form in this long-standing course, initially through drawing and model making, before finalising and finishing a unique piece. This is a course for anyone new to sculpture, and those with an experience in the subject looking to further their practice. This ten-week course, led by Leicester artist Austin Orwin, will allow you to explore the development of ideas into three-dimensional form. You will experiment with form through drawing, maquette making, analysis and discussion, and will be guided through the sculptural process from materials and techniques to idea development and the realisation of your ideas into a final piece. After initial exploration of form through research and drawings you will create a series of small models to help turn your ideas into three-dimensional form. The objectives of this course are to learn a range of sculptural techniques from initial conception of an idea to the finished sculpture. You will be encouraged to develop an ambitious approach to object making, and will be guided through the use of a range of materials. Those with experience will be given the opportunity to develop their own practice within a very creative, supportive environment. Supported by the tutor, experienced students will be encouraged to push the boundaries of their work.

Gain confidence in your ability to improvise and perform in a jazz group and learn tunes from the jazz repertoire. The course will introduce you to playing in a jazz band, or provide opportunity for you to improve your knowledge and skills. We will work on a number of tunes over the 10-week course, modelling a real playing experience. We play together as a group, learning tunes and improvising. As far as possible we will function as a jazz band would depending on the mix of instruments participating. Within this context we will consider orthodox performance conventions, and allow you to try improvising (or improve this skill) in a supportive environment. This is a practical course focussed on playing, but theory and improvisation techniques relevant to the tunes being played will feature. Please note: Attenborough Arts Centre has two acoustic pianos we can use, but no other instruments or backline. You will need to bring your own instrument(s) each week. Unfortunately we cannot include vocalists, unless you also play an instrument. Your instrument (other than drums etc) needs to be capable of all 12 chromatic notes. eg not diatonic “Blues” harmonica.

British pianist and composer Andrew McCormack has built a diverse international career with many appearances at major festivals and concert halls all over the globe. He is perhaps best known internationally as a long term member of the Kyle Eastwood Band but also has numerous projects under his own name including trio, duo with Saxophonist Jason Yarde and the pianists’ progressive jazz project, Graviton as well as having received commissions for Classical orchestral and chamber concerts. Using a mixture of originals, standard and not so standard repertoire, the pianist demonstrates his compelling ideas, composing and thrilling performances in the stripped down intimate setting of solo piano.

Develop your piano-playing skills in this relaxed and informal monthly performers’ club. Join pianist Jude Richardson on Sunday afternoons and/or Thursday evenings in a casual piano group class dedicated to helping you gain confidence as a pianist and performer. You can bring finished pieces, music you've just started looking at, original compositions, or anything else you like to play on piano. Each person is given an opportunity to play their piece and hear from an audience of fellow pianists what they enjoyed about the performance. Jude offers brief feedback and ensures that each performer is given the space and time they need to achieve their best. If you end up deciding not to play, there's no pressure as you can sit back, enjoy the other performances, and learn from the conversations and feedback. Additional activities include sight reading duets, piano accompanying with solo singers and instrumentalists, and the opportunity to receive brief one-to-one feedback from Jude. All ages and skill levels welcome. Under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Flutter over to the Butterfly Boudoir for an evening of costumes, parody, and lots of tease. Expect a variety of group and solo performances from Doe Demure's troupes, Chicas Locas Burlesque and Skytribe Fusion Bellydance. Both new and experienced performers will be taking to the stage. Attendees are forewarned; as is typical of burlesque shows, there will be mild nudity and racy routines, but tastefully naughty with glitter and glamour (...or tacky and smutty with a comedic tone!)

An annual celebration of Guru Purnima - a special day between students and their teachers. Students of all standards will play special pieces as a homage to their guru(s). The event is open to all, with a particular emphasis on students, their families and friends.

A fun and creative day ‘painting with wool’. During this one-day workshop you’ll explore the ancient art of Wet Felting and leave with a beautiful piece of felted art to be proud of! This course is an excellent introduction to the art of wet felting. Using a wide range of different wool, silk and plant fibres you will learn how to create a picture full of texture and detail. Tutor Karen will discuss the use of colour and layers to create depth and perspective in your picture and how additional textile skills such as hand and free machine embroidery can be used to embellish your artwork. Then using just soap and water you will felt all the fibres together to create your final picture. No sharp needles involved - just natural fibres, soap and water. Choose on the day whether to create an abstract seascape or a realistic one. Karen will have plenty of pictures to use for inspiration but you are welcome to bring your own too.

A five-week introductory course for anyone new to crochet. This friendly and informal course is for complete beginners to give you the confidence to use a pattern and start your first crochet creations. In week one you will receive everything you will need to get you started including a ball of yarn, crochet hook and a few other goodies. To accompany this course, you will receive a new worksheet each week to enable you to practice at home between classes. Week 1 Learn about hooks, yarn weights and yarn packaging, how to hold the hook and yarn, how to create a foundation chain, the double crochet stitch and how to fasten off your work. Week 2 Practice chain stitch and double crochet from Week 1 and learn new stitches - half treble, treble and double treble. Week 3 Practice all stitches learned over Weeks 1 and 2 plus joining yarn, weaving in ends and seaming, understanding abbreviations and mesh pattern. Week 4 Making a ring working in a spiral and working in rounds. Week 5 Making Granny squares . For fast learners there is also an opportunity to learn basic flowers and increase and decrease methods.

If you have an iPad and Apple Pencil and are wondering how to start your digital artistic journey, then this workshop is for you! Procreate is an app that is similar to Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator but much more user friendly and much cheaper at just £10! Tutor Rosie is a self-taught artist and Illustrator and since she started using procreate it has completely revolutionised her art and business. Please note: For this course you will need your own iPad, digital pencil and have the Procreate app downloaded onto your iPad. We are unable to loan this equipment to participants. This one-day workshop will consist of 3 stages and at each stage you'll learn the technical aspects of Procreate whilst taking creative inspiration from the wonderful gallery space at Attenborough Arts and/or your own influences. This means that you won't need any fully formed ideas, we'll take the galleries lead for our artistic imagination giving us the head space to drill into the techy stuff! For the first stage we'll learn the absolute basics of drawing with a digital pencil in Procreate. We’ll learn how the different ‘brushes’ work. How to save select, change and move images. We’ll learn how layers work, how to use different colours and ‘colour drop’ and the general inner workings of the app. If any of this sounds like jargon, then you’re in the right place! And we promise it's easier than it sounds! Then we'll use more of our imagination and creative skills by getting to grips with the effects section of Procreate. We’ll be taking more inspiration from the gallery space by learning how to insert images, what can be done with them and how they can be manipulated. We’ll learn how to add other things too like text, and how you can start to Build up your drawn images. The final stage will be all about how to make your work ready to sell. If you’re doing this course just for the joy of it, that’s great! But learning these extra special skills will still be mega useful! Like repeat patterns, logos alpha lock, text and saving for print. We’ll explore the effects more and consider how we might merge other art into this new digital landscape. For example, enhancing our own photography or physical drawings. We’ll also explore any specific interests you have personally and how we might continue on this new digital venture.

Spend five weeks exploring the potential and power of guitar harmonies. This course will show you how to use the guitar to explore the world of harmony and tap into different sensations and moods within it. After discussing first principles - ‘what is actually happening when we hear a sustained pitch?’ And ‘what is the significance of the fundamental pitch relations?’, We will then examine how it is possible that such a wide spectrum of sonic effects can be created using these building blocks. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, it is my Hope that everyone who joins will leave with more colours on their palette to use as a musician and have a deeper sensitivity to the profound effect of sound. The main goal of this course is to give you the confidence and tools to freely experiment with harmony to enrich your own personal musical experience. Each week will involve demonstration, guided listening, small group exercises and discussion. Participants are encouraged to bring their guitar so they can share any ideas, but this is not essential as there will be much ‘food for thought’ for people to take away and practice in their own time. This course is suitable for guitarists of all levels, as the emphasis is not on playing technique, rather simply how to use the guitar as a tool to open your ears to different possibilities by combining pitches and applying different modes of thought. Both electric and acoustic guitars are welcome, and also bass guitar. If you're playing an electric guitar please bring your own amp and we'll keep the volume at a considerate level. All technical abilities are welcome as the focus is not on performance, rather we are using the guitar as a tool to appreciate various harmonic effects.

Focus each week on a specific subject including writing for special events, nature writing, writing for publication and much more. This 10-week course is aimed at anyone who has some previous experience of writing poetry - either through a previous adult education class, a writing group, an on-line course, or self-taught independent practise. It would also be of interest to writers with experience of other forms of creative writing who would like to develop their poetic practise. Maybe you’ve been writing privately and now wish to challenge yourself further, or have the opportunity to develop your writing with other emerging and new voices. There will be opportunities to work on your own writing and to share it.We will develop our work using two writing prompts each week, supported by examples of contemporary poetry PowerPoints to further develop writing confidence and lots of time to share work and receive peer feedback. Class members will also be encouraged to work and share other writing and to develop their own poetic voice in a safe and supportive learning environment.

Can you crochet but need some help to take it to the next level? Then this 3-week course is just for you! This short course is designed for those with basic crochet skills to build confidence and improve their crochet knowledge. Tutor Bonita will take you from groundhog granny squares to pattern perfection. During this course you will also get the opportunity to ask for help with techniques and patterns that you would like to try. You will need to know the following before you start the course: How to make a slip knot hold the hook and yarn. Work chain, slip stitch, crochet and treble stitch. In the first session we’ll discuss your crochet skill level and set the pace from there! The aim of the course is for you to be able to crochet along a foundation chain, learn how to increase and decrease stitches, learn new stitches such a bobble or shell, and create patterns within your crochet. We will also look at various patterns and diagrams to help you better understand how to read them before moving on to starting the pattern you have chosen. This course has a relaxed structure and worksheets will be provided for the skills covered. However, this course is very much guided by you and what you would like to learn and can be adapted to your individual skills and what you would like to learn. As well as gaining a sense of achievement and improving your skills, it's also a very mindful craft and can help improve mental health. Week 1: Reading a simple pattern and making basic crochet flowers. Week 2: Making and joining Granny squares with the join as you go method. Week 3: Reading Crochet diagrams and using this to create the ripple pattern Week 4: Learning textured stitches such as popcorn stitch, bobble stitch etc.

A two-day workshop for artists and makers who want to gain tips and tricks to get the Max from their social media. Do you want to start selling your art online? To get better at it but need to know more tricks of the trade? Why do hashtags matter? What actually is an algorithm and why should I care? Is AI going to steal my soul? Probably. But for now, tutor Rosie will teach you how to make social media and brand marketing your friend. Tutor Rosie will show you how enhancing your online activity will actually make you want to create more and try new things rather than want to throw your phone at the wall. No matter what your craft or art discipline(s), if we reframe every single element of ‘posting online’ as artistic process, resistance, learning, political voice or just aesthetic beauty, then why not give it a go? It could get you some extra income, commissions, new opportunities, collaborations or just be a place to digitally archive your journey!

A weekly opportunity to meet with other writers (or people who want to start writing) to grow your practise and confidence. With focused writing prompts and time and space to work on your own projects with support from an experienced tutor, these new afternoon sessions will give you the opportunity to share work in progress and get feedback and support from other group members. You’ll be able to grab a drink (and maybe some cake!) from our café and grow your own writing practise in a relaxed, supportive and encouraging environment. Each week we’ll focus on a writing prompt and complete one piece of writing. There will also be opportunities to bring other works in progress to share and get feedback on from the tutor and fellow group members. Alongside a weekly writing prompt, there will also be opportunities to discuss common writing problems and explore strategies to combat these. Each session will also include sharing of work in a safe and supportive environment. Suitable for everyone - from absolute beginners to more experienced writers who'd like to discover new voices and share their work with a supportive group of peers.

Sew your own summer dress in this new five-week evening course. Join tutor Freya for a five-week dressmaking course where you’ll learn how to sew your own clothes using a wonderfully simple pattern from Freya’s own ‘Handmade Wardrobe’ collection. Over the course of five evenings, you'll learn how to take accurate body measurements choose the correct size, and cut your fabric with confidence. We’ll work with a lightweight woven fabric that's ideal for dressmaking, sewing the simple dress step-by-step. This course is suitable for confident beginners.Participants should be comfortable using their sewing machine, including threading, basic stitching, and changing settings, but no previous dressmaking experience is required. The course includes the pattern to sew a simple shift dress with optional sleeves which will fit up to a size UK 24. Please note: You will need to bring your own sewing machine and 3m of lightweight woven fabric with you for this project. Freya recommends a cotton lawn or a lightweight denim.

Perfect for chilling in the evenings. Learn how to knit and start your very own knitted blanket project. Tutor Bonita will teach you how to knit the knit and purl stitches and use them to create different effects. In this relaxed workshop you will also learn how to cast on, cast off and join your knitted squares. At the end of the three weeks, you will leave with the skills and confidence to make your very own big cosy blanket. In this 3-week short course you will be taught the skills you need to start your own blanket and make it to any size that you wish. Yarn, knitting needles and worksheets will be provided and are yours to keep at the end of the workshop.

Create your own wonderfully textured piece of wall art in this beginner's punch needle embroidery workshop. You will use a slim needle and DK yarn to create a piece that can be mounted in a 4” hoop. Not only will you learn a new skill You'll also enjoy the wellbeing elements of this incredibly therapeutic and rhythmic craft. No experience is necessary as tutor Caroline will take you through each step of the process, from creating your design to threading the needle, punching your stitches and finishing a piece you'll be proud to display. There’ll be plenty of patterns to choose from, or if you're feeling inspired, come with your own ideas!

Learn as you sew in this relaxed but comprehensive one-day beginners sewing workshop. Do you have an unloved sewing machine at home and want to put it to use? Have you been inspired by the Great British Sewing Bee? Would love to try making your own clothes? Then this is the workshop for you! We'll go over the parts of the sewing machine, what equipment you need (and Don't need!) And how to set up the machine and your workspace ready to sew. We'll help you create your very first stitches and over the day you will complete several projects which will equip you with all the skills you need for your next sewing projects! The day includes all your materials and teaching in a small group with experienced, knowledgeable and friendly tutor, Freya. In the morning you will make a needle case and an envelope cushion cover. In the afternoon you will create a useful shopping bag to carry your sewing kit or store projects in. Freya will demonstrate and explain techniques and you will get plenty of individual help through the session.

Discover the art of drypoint in this one-day hands-on workshop. Learn to create rich lines, texture, and shading on plates, experiment with mark-making, and produce your own expressive prints. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to explore this printmaking technique. By the end of the day, you’ll be able to: - Prepare and etch a plate using drypoint techniques. - Apply different marks, textures, and tonal effects to create expressive prints. - Ink and print their plate successfully on paper. - Reflect on their printed outcomes, identifying techniques to develop further. - Demonstrate an understanding of the creative possibilities of drypoint printmaking.

Learn tips and tricks to fuel your passion for sketching and to help keep a sketchbook as part of your creative life. Just like our long-running Thursday Sketchbook Sessions, but now on a Friday morning too! In a relaxed and supportive environment, you'll learn interesting ways to fill a sketchbook whilst honing your sketching skills and embracing the creative journey. This ten-week course is suitable for anyone new to sketching, but also for those students looking to reignite their passion for sketchbook drawing, or simply for anyone wanting to explore the creative power that working in a sketchbook offers. Previous participants will be encouraged to expand their sketching practice with a series of weekly projects designed to enhance creativity and drawing skills, with guidance from the tutor. With 25 hours of studio contact time we will be using such things as the built environment, elements of nature, and a menagerie of still-life objects as our reference. As well as doing plenty of sketching there will be many playful sketching exercises to enhance both your skill-set and enjoyment of this fabulously creative pastime. Mainly project led, we’ll think about layout and consider different compositions on each page to enhance your sense of design. We’ll also look at ways to distort the perspective of a scene so we can depict it in new and exciting ways. There will also be an opportunity to spend time in Attenborough Arts Centre’s gallery spaces, where we’ll perhaps be inspired to fill a sketchbook page or two.

A one-day workshop to teach total beginners how to write beautifully! Tutor Rosie will teach you how to write in the modern calligraphy type and harness your own style, using loads of different mediums and surfaces. This course will help give you the confidence to use your new calligraphy skills for a wide range of uses such as wall art, gifts, decorations, wedding stationery and signage and lots more!. You’ll start by throwing out textbooks. Remember at school when we learnt how to write in straight lines with each letter being the same size? We’re going to do the complete opposite. Start by learning to write each letter in capital and lower case in the calligraphy style. Rosie will demonstrate each swirl, swoosh and flick that makes a calligraphy alphabet look impressive and you'll practise how to give each letter its own identity before starting to join the letters up to make words much more exciting than primary school writing we promise! Give each word flare and add embellishments to create your calligraphy's unique look. Once you've harnessed the letters and words we'll start being really creative and think about what we'll use them for: wedding stationery/signage, beautiful quotes or names that can be framed and turned into wall art, greetings cards, personalised decorations, small signs and much, much more. Learn how to make them look professional yet personal, using a range of drawing/writing media. And you’ll also practise on different surfaces - paper is just the beginning! Modern calligraphy looks fabulous on wood, glass and plastic and each feels completely different. Once you've finished the workshop, hopefully you'll be Masters of your own writing and the amazing things you can create with it!

A beginner-friendly introduction to the highly textured and traditional craft of latch hook. In this relaxed half-day workshop you will create a 12cm squared sample of hooked canvas which you can take home to display as a wall hanging or place in a frame. Tutor Caroline will guide you through the process of creating a design, cutting your yarn and using the latch hook tool to knot the strands onto the canvas. It is the perfect craft to use up any leftover yarn you may have which you are welcome to bring along and use, although plenty of yarn will be provided for you.

Explore the art of intuitive lino printing in this one-day beginner's workshop. Using continuous line and mark-making, create a vibrant abstract print with the reduction method. This workshop is all about process and creativity - listen to your instincts carve your lino with repetitive, therapeutic movements, and let your mood guide your choice of colour and application. Perfect for anyone looking to experiment, play, and connect with the joy of print making. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of intuitive lino printing in this one-day workshop. Using the reduction method, you will explore continuous line, expressive Mark-making, and abstract design to create a unique, layered print. This workshop is all about process experimentation, and trusting your instincts-allowing creativity, rhythm, and mood to guide your decisions. You will start by exploring continuous line and intuitive marks, developing a personal approach to design. Guided demonstrations will show how to carve safely and effectively, while repetitive process-driven movements help build confidence and a meditative connection to your work. You will also experiment with colour, layering, and expressive ink application to bring your print to life.

A practical introduction to Islamic geometry - use a ruler, compass and watercolour to create a unique piece to take home. Learn how to draw a historical pattern from Islamic traditions. This 3-hour workshop will teach you how to design, draw and colour an eight-fold Mughal pattern from India. During the session, tutor Safira will show you how to create a geometric pattern template and go through the process of how to transfer it to watercolour paper. The session will include a chance to explore watercolour painting techniques so you can create your own painting. No prior experience is required, or if you do have some experience of Islamic geometry, this is a great way to refresh your skills or find new inspiration!

A practical introduction to Islamic geometry - use a ruler, compass and watercolour to create a unique piece to take home. Learn how to draw a historical pattern from Islamic traditions. This 3-hour workshop will teach you how to design draw and colour a six-fold Mughal pattern from India. During the session, tutor Safira will show you how to create a geometric pattern template and go through the process of how to transfer it to watercolour paper. The session will include a chance to explore watercolour painting techniques so you can create your own painting. No prior experience is required, or if you do have some experience of Islamic geometry, this is a great way to refresh your skills or find new inspiration!

An exciting 10-week printmaking course focused on experimentation and play. Working in either mono-print, linocut or collagraph or a combination of techniques, you will develop your use of mark-making, colour, layering, and registration through guided demonstrations and studio time. This course aims to build confidence in your printmaking skills, encourage you to take creative risks with your themes and processes and create a vibrant series of prints. It is ideal for total beginners and those with some experience of print making who would like to develop their skills and/or explore new techniques.

A summer-inspired introduction to mosaics. This five-week summer mosaic course introduces beginners to the fundamentals of mosaic-making, with a strong emphasis on developing cutting confidence and control, culminating in a unique weatherproof outdoor mosaic plant pot. Each week builds progressively, moving from simple cuts to more intentional shaping, while exploring bright seasonal themes such as sunshine, sea life, gardens, and flowers. Participants will complete skill-building exercises and small sample pieces in the early weeks, and finish the course with a confidently cut, assembled, and grouted outdoor mosaic pot suitable for garden or patio use.

Join with other artists to develop your critical skills and become more confident in your ability to develop your own artistic style. These friendly, supportive classes are devoted entirely to discussion and criticism of work done at home. The six sessions are based around a focus and specific creative problems set by the tutor. You will be required to work outside of class using your own materials, resulting in a number of pieces, using a variety of materials and approaches. Each session of the course will be devoted to discussion and constructive criticism of work done outside of class. Questions about observation, interpretation and the nature of images will be discussed, as well as why and what choices were made. A theme/ focus will be set by the tutor for the term. Members of the course will be working on the same challenges so the discussion will have some unity. Prior to the term starting, learners will be sent notification of the term's focus and told the piece of work they are to complete and bring to the first session. During the first session, a handout will be given out indicating the creative work and challenges to be undertaken each week at home and confirming dates for the reminder of the term. This will allow any student absent from a class to know the date and homework that is required for their next session. The aim of the course is for students to pursue the brief using and developing their own style. Different approaches and materials will be suggested for exploration. Work can be of an experimental nature as vitality and freshness of approach is important. The sharing of ideas, skills and means of expression with the group is an important element of the course.

Create your own wonderfully embellished tote bag in this half day beginner's punch needle embroidery class. You will use a slim needle and DK yarn to ‘punch’ stitches onto a tote bag to create a uniquely decorated bag that you can use straight away! No experience or sewing skills are required! Tutor Caroline will take you through each step of the process, from threading the needle, punching your stitches and finishing a piece you'll be proud to use. Not only will you learn a new skill, you’ll also enjoy the wellbeing elements of this incredibly therapeutic and rhythmic craft. There will be plenty of patterns and templates to choose from or if you're feeling creative, why not come with your own designs?

Create your own punch needle coaster (mug rug!) In this fun beginner's punch needle class. Not only will you learn a new skill or further develop your experience of punch needle, you'll also enjoy the wellbeing elements of this incredibly therapeutic and rhythmic craft. No experience is necessary as tutor Caroline will take you through each step of the process from transferring your design to threading the needle, punching your stitches and finishing your coaster ready for your cuppa! There’ll be plenty of patterns to choose from, or if you're feeling inspired, come with your own ideas!

Explore the versatility of the humble punch needle tool to create a piece of 6” wall art full of texture and interest. This is a great opportunity to let your creativity flow and make a piece that develops as you punch. If you prefer more guidance however, tutor Caroline will be on hand to help with your design. All materials and tools will be provided for you but if you have any specific yarn (any weight), a favourite punch needle (suitable for chunky yarn) or any embellishments you'd like to use then please bring them along! At the start of the day you'll stretch your fabric in a practice piece before the larger hoop. Then you’ll be shown how to create different textures, such as tufting, long strands, adding embellishments and varying stitch length, and have a practise in your practice hoop. You will then move onto the large hoop to work on your final design, which will finally be mounted in a wooden hoop. This will be a relaxed, creative day where not only will you produce a piece of wonderfully textured art, you will enjoy the therapeutic benefits that punch needle brings. Please note: there may at times be small yarn fibres in the air so please do bring a face covering if you feel this May affect you.

Use wire as you would draw a line to create a beautiful contemporary piece for your home! Think of the wire as a pencil line and then take it for a walk. This one-day workshop is ideal for absolute beginners and those with some experience of metal working who'd like to try something new. In this wire working class you will create a two-dimensional picture or three-dimensional flower heads and leaf stems. You will learn how to bend, weave, fold and wrap various types of wire, using the different colours and thicknesses to create detail and add interest. You’ll learn some techniques of working with coloured craft wire, thin copper wire and iron binding wire, mixing and matching the different colours to add interest and contrast to their designs. Tools and equipment used to shape and bend wire include various types of pliers and snips and a board to hammer pins into to help keep the wire under control while working. Jigs to create repetitive patterns will also be available. Craft wire in particular is quite soft making it easy to bend and use and wire wrapping, weaving and snipping are not tiring techniques. During the four hours there is plenty of time to master the technique and create a beautifully made outcome or two.

Adventures in Art is our weekly multi-disciplinary art workshop for adults. The sessions are usually in Studio 4 on the first floor, accessible via lift, stairs or external ramp. We have a variety of tutors who will deliver 3 or 4 weeks in a row, and then a different tutor will take over with a new creative discipline/project, which could include printmaking, painting, drawing, sculpture, Clay, collage, journaling, crafts like macrame and more. Although there is no need to book in advance we do advise booking ahead of each session if you can, just to ensure a place is available for you, as places are limited and sessions do fill up!

A five-week course exploring the vibrant world of flowers and fauna in pastels. Beginning with an introduction to materials, colour, confidence, and expressive Mark-making, you will gradually build your understanding of layering, blending, texture and form. Through guided exercises and demonstrations, you'll learn how to use Bright, high-impact colour to create lively floral studies and capture the character and movement of animals. As the course progresses, we will combine flowers and fauna in more considered compositions, developing confidence in colour harmony, focal points and expressive backgrounds.

Learn the expressive potential of watercolours to create landscape paintings which convey atmosphere, mood and ideas. Each week we will explore a particular aspect of watercolour paints and use their qualities to express different ideas and atmosphere.

Create a unique fused glass summer or beach scene which will stand in a Leicestershire-made wooden base. During this three-hour workshop you will use clear sheet and a wide range of accessory glass to create your own design. Bring images to work from if you wish to, or tutor Katherine will provide ideas to inspire you. No experience of working with glass is needed so this workshop is ideal for beginners and doesn't involve any glass cutting, but it is also suitable for those who have completed a previous course and want to develop their skills.

Learn the Japanese handicraft of Kinusaiga, a form of textile art, in this new half day workshop. Kinusaiga is a form of textile art collage made by pressing fabric into a board, creating a unique piece of wall art that resembles stained glass. Tutor Bonita will guide you to create your own design, or you can follow one of Bonita’s designs if you prefer. You’ll then be shown how to transfer your design to the board and cut your fabrics, before learning how to use a Kinusaiga tool to remove paper from the board and add the fabrics. The final stage is to finish off and apply ribbon edging. By the end of the workshop you'll have a unique piece of wall art to keep or gift and have the knowledge and skills to continue this beautiful craft at home.

A comprehensive introductory one-day workshop for total beginners to the life drawing genre. Participants will be shown fool proof, tried and tested methods of rendering the life model using a variety of drawing media. By the end of the day you will have the knowledge, confidence and ability to continue your life drawing journey. Following a brief group discussion on the subject of why life drawing is considered so difficult, you will begin drawing with a variety of short poses. Next you’ll look at techniques such as gestural drawing, pivots the picture plane, negative spaces, shape, shadow mapping, linkage and subtractive drawing...amongst others. By the end of the day you’ll know what all of these are! You’ll discover that it’s not as difficult as you had thought to render the human form in a convincing manner. After lunch you’ll work towards a more finished piece of work from a longer, more sustained pose.

A five-week course focusing on life drawing in oils - all the techniques you'll need to successfully paint the nude in this bold and expressive medium. This is an intensive and thorough course in oil painting, with many step-by-step demonstrations to illustrate the basic techniques. Not only will you learn how to successfully paint the nude, you will also pick up useful tips and hints which will be helpful to the beginner and the more advanced painter. The tutor will introduce the Zorn palette and the Spanish palette, both ideal for painting flesh tones. Participants will be talked through the creation, organisation and application of the palettes. For this course, all participants will be required to provide some of their own materials and equipment. These are as follows: Oil paint in the following colours as a minimum - black, white, yellow ochre, cadmium red, cadmium yellow, ultra marine blue and burnt umber. We will use more white than any other colour.

Feel a sense of personal discovery as you challenge your practise in this one-day masterclass for those with some experience of life drawing. You will explore a wide range of styles and techniques to draw and paint the human figure and be encouraged to create something new and unique. You will begin by experimenting with a variety of drawing techniques, using different media, and looking for ways to take your studies on to the next level. You will be asked to consider what you hope to achieve in your artwork, and to talk about your artistic influences. Leading up to lunch you’ll push the boundaries of your drawing methods. After a short break for lunch, we will look at and discuss a large collection of contemporary and traditional figurative art works, brought in by the tutor, and consider why they are (or aren't) successful pieces of work. The tutor will also demonstrate palettes for flesh tones, and discuss composition and the importance of having a goal in mind as you paint. The group will then work on a two-and-a-half-hour pose/painting to end the workshop, followed by a short group appraisal. The emphasis here is to go beyond ‘mere' accuracy and to move on to producing art and self-expression and the development of a personal style.

Gain a greater understanding of the use of colour and light to render the human form. During this 10-week course, tutor Scott will show you how to develop your drawing skills and put colour theory into practice. You’ll explore colour mixing and how to apply it, not only for flesh Tones but also as a broader means of expression, and colour as a tonal value. Many people are rather reserved when it comes to painting with colour. This course will dispel any fears or worries of its use, giving you an understanding of colour relationships in practice. Some of the subjects you will explore include the spectrum, chromatic greys, unsaturated colour, surface colour, the properties of colour, subtractive mixing, the colour wheel, complimentary colour, coloured neutrals, simultaneous contrast, two-colour harmony, optical mixing, advancing and receding colour and more. Scott will talk participants through each exercise, showing examples of his own work to demonstrate and inspire, and offer advice and feedback via individual tuition and group discussions. Suitable for everyone, from absolute beginners to those with experience seeking to develop their technique.

Through a whole series of drawing exercises, explore a wide variety of methods of seeing and therefore drawing the portrait from a live model. ‘Drawing is looking’, so in this one-day workshop you will explore a variety of ways of looking, covering structure, anatomy, light and shadow, the gestalt and much more, and utilise a variety of media and drawing methods to respond to short and long poses. The tutor will demonstrate a range of drawing techniques and approaches and a step-by-step method of drawing the portrait from the live model, looking at both traditional and contemporary approaches. After a short lunch, you'll move on to colour and eventually paint if you feel ready to, where you can work towards a more ‘finished’ final painting or continue to produce a series of quicker observations.

A 10-week course exploring sculptural form, working exclusively with Clay and using a variety of sculptural techniques to create your own unique pieces. This course is hands on and ideal for both beginners and those looking to further explore their sculptural practise. Clay is a versatile material and you will learn a range of techniques (including pinch pot, coiling, slab building and casting) and with the support of the tutor will be encouraged to adopt an ambitious approach to making sculpture by thinking about space, form, shadow, balance and surface detail. You will learn about the many different ways in which Clay can be used to fulfil your sculptural ideas, and will practise maquette making, and learn methods to transform an idea into a reality by following a series of steps on individual projects in class. By the end of the course you will have created a series of unique small models or perhaps a larger piece. Finishing techniques will also be discussed. This is a fun, relaxed class with the chance to really see what can be created in the medium of clay.

Learn tips and tricks to fuel your passion for sketching and to help keep a sketchbook as part of your creative life. In a relaxed and supportive environment, you'll learn interesting ways to fill a sketchbook whilst honing your sketching skills and embracing the creative journey. This ten-week course is suitable for anyone new to sketching, but also for those students looking to reignite their passion for sketchbook drawing, or simply for anyone wanting to explore the creative power that working in a sketchbook offers. Previous participants will be encouraged to expand their sketching practice with a series of weekly projects designed to enhance creativity and drawing skills, with guidance from the tutor. With 25 hours of studio contact time we will be using such things as the built environment, elements of nature, and a menagerie of still-life objects as our reference. As well as doing plenty of sketching there will be many playful sketching exercises to enhance both your skill-set and enjoyment of this fabulously creative pastime. Mainly project led, we’ll think about layout and consider different compositions on each page to enhance your sense of design. We’ll also look at ways to distort the perspective of a scene so we can depict it in new and exciting ways. There will also be an opportunity to spend time in the Attenborough Arts Centre gallery spaces, where we’ll perhaps be inspired to fill a sketchbook page or two. Amongst many other things we'll show you how to make a start in a sketchbook, how to lose the fear of the blank page, and how to see things differently. A sketchbook is not only a portable place to store your work, but a place that can hold your creative endeavours your learnings, your thoughts and your growth, as well as your finished drawings. It’s a place for fun and a place where rules don’t matter.

Weekly pay-as-you-go Life Drawing classes with artist and expert tutor Scott Bridgwood. Ideal for complete beginners or more experienced artists seeking a flexible opportunity to do some life drawing with experienced models and a professional tutor. No need to commit to a long course, simply book the dates you can make it and pay for individual sessions, so it's more flexible if you're juggling other commitments, and more affordable offering payment week by week. You will be able and encouraged to pursue your own style of working in this class, with guidance from the tutor as/when required. Scott will listen to each individual's needs and goals and support everyone individually, with areas such as draughtsmanship, composition or concept. A range of drawing materials, paints and papers are provided and we aim to rotate models so you have a variety of body types to inspire your drawing each week.

A two-day introduction to the art of botanical painting at the University of Leicester’s Botanic Garden in Oadby. This course is suitable for anyone who’d like to combine their love of botanics with art - from complete beginners to those with some experience who'd like to try new techniques or just spend two days drawing and painting with like-minded people! On day one tutor Georgia will focus on pencil drawing observation, form, structure, light and shade. On day two the focus will be on colour studies, watercolour wash techniques to achieve different forms and textures thinking more about composition and preparing for a more finished final piece. Individual tuition and advice will be available throughout the two days. If you have more experience Georgia can guide you through your own process and offer advice as/when you need it to help develop your existing practise.

The World’s Official No. 1 Eagles tribute returns for another outstanding show promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. This phenomenal group of musicians have been touring for over two decades and remain true Eagles fanatics! Their longevity and continued international acclaim are due in no small part to their extraordinary mastery of the Eagles’ distinctive sound. Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ repertoire including Hotel California, Take it to the Limit, Life in the Fast Lane, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Desperado and plenty more!

Robert White is going on tour with a brand new show!  Whether you're a fan from his series of Britain's Got Talent, or you're one of his millions of online viewers but only just realising that Robert is ‘THAT' Gay Autistic Keyboard Tanktop Comedy Guy, you'll want to see his mix of songs, stories, stand up, gags, props, improvisation, interaction and all sorts of other engaging naughty nonsense besides!

Two hearts. One fate. A timeless love reborn. The Duke’s Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, a bold reimagining of the iconic tragedy directed by Joseph Pitcher. Pitcher’s acclaimed credits include My Fair Lady at The Mill at Sonning, Bard from the Barn at the Barn Theatre Cirencester, and The Winter’s Tale at Theatre on the Bay in Cape Town. This vibrant production also features original music by award-winning composer Rob Millett, whose previous commissions include Ballet Rambert, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare’s Globe. Blending dynamic staging, evocative sound, and the enduring power of Shakespeare’s verse, this retelling Illuminates the passion, peril, and youthful intensity at the play's core inviting audiences to rediscover the world's most famous star-crossed lovers.

This exhibition is in partnership with Hayward Gallery Touring. Attenborough Arts Centre presents ‘Material Worlds: Contemporary Artists and Textiles’, an ambitious group exhibition exploring how artists are using textiles in surprising and radical ways. Illuminating the diverse roles textiles play in contemporary artistic practice, the exhibition brings together artists who take the intimate and domestic quality of textiles and transform them into theatrical, bold, unsettling and humorous artworks that inspire, challenge and offer new ways of thinking. Featuring work created predominantly over the last decade by 13 UK-based artists, Material Worlds highlights their deep awareness of textiles’ cultural history and a shared desire to challenge its traditional associations, testing the material’s expansive and subversive potential. The familiar fabric of everyday life is reimagined into the unexpected—the ordinary made extraordinary—to reflect on ideas of gender, identity, community, race, technology, and myth, demonstrating the medium’s potential to transform in the hands of different artists. Artists featured in the exhibition include Caroline Achaintre, Jonathan Baldock, Phyllida Barlow, Marc Camille Chaimowicz, Alexandre da Cunha, Holly Hendry, Tonico Lemos Auad, Paul Maheke, Anna Perach, Yelena Popova, Paloma Proudfoot, Yinka Shonibare, Rae-Yen Song, Tenant of Culture and Zadie Xa.

In 2016, Attenborough Arts Centre opened its new purpose-built galleries, creating a new home for contemporary art in Leicester. Since then we have welcomed thousands of visitors and hosted a diverse programme of exhibitions by local, national and international artists. Over the past decade, these spaces have become more than galleries — they are places for conversation, community and connection. To mark this special milestone, we are looking back on both the programme, and also the memories and experiences of all those who have engaged with the range of artists and art we have presented and produced. This exhibition will look back at highlights from the past 10 years while inviting you to share your own stories and reflections. Whether you discovered a favourite artist here or simply paused for a quiet moment of inspiration, your experiences are part of our history. Together, we’ll reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and imagine what the next 10 years might bring. To commemorate the occasion we have produced our own publication ‘A Decade of Exhibitions’ that reflects the importance of art for all while detailing every exhibition we have showcased over the past 10 years. The publication is available for access online by clicking here, or a physical version is available for purchase at our front desk.

Saturday Gallery Art Club is your opportunity to get creative, explore art hands-on, and take inspiration from our latest exhibitions to create your own work Open to everyone, each session is supported by our friendly Learning Team as they hold the space for you to work independently or with your friends and family. With all materials provided, you get the opportunity to create in whatever medium you find most interesting or exciting. This includes paints, clay, drawing materials, printmaking, collage, and more. Either take up something you already enjoy or try something completely new! The Art Club will be focussed on ‘Material Worlds: Contemporary Artists and Textiles‘, an ambitious group exhibition exploring how artists are using textiles in surprising and radical ways. Every session is free with booking required, however drop-ins are welcome. There is no pressure to attend every week or all of the sessions, just join in whenever you want to. Saturday Gallery Art Club is located in our Salmon Gallery. An accessible space curated by our Learning Team, the gallery is inspired by our exhibitions and features free art materials, interactive sensory objects, and a library of available books for a range of ages. The space also includes aircon, a heating system, and a variety of seating options and height-adjustable tables. Note: Adults must stay with their children at all times.

Join Deaf artist Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq on a BSL Tour of ‘Material Worlds: Contemporary Artists and Textiles’. An ambitious group exhibition exploring how artists are using textiles in surprising and radical ways. Illuminating the diverse roles textiles play in contemporary artistic practice, the exhibition brings together artists who take the intimate and domestic quality of textiles and transform them into theatrical, bold, unsettling and humorous artworks that inspire, challenge and offer new ways of thinking. Featuring work created predominantly over the last decade by 13 UK-based artists, Material Worlds highlights their deep awareness of textiles’ cultural history and a shared desire to challenge its traditional associations, testing the material’s expansive and subversive potential. The familiar fabric of everyday life is reimagined into the unexpected—the ordinary made extraordinary—to reflect on ideas of gender, identity, community, race, technology, and myth, demonstrating the medium’s potential to transform in the hands of different artists. About the tour: Rubbena will be leading the tour in British Sign Language (BSL) capturing the curator’s insight into the exhibitions for the participants. A BSL Interpreter will also attend. Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq is a London based painter and installation artist. She has exhibited internationally in New York, South Korea, Canada, Paris, Sweden and the UK. Over the past few years she has led BSL tours for galleries such as the Hayward, Tate, Wallace Collections and the Science Gallery. This friendly tour is free, and open to everyone. The tour will be Deaf-led and tailored for Deaf audiences.

What happens when art becomes a research method? This public conversation explores how theatre and embodied practice can reshape the way knowledge is produced within and beyond the university. The speakers will reflect on how artistic processes allow different bodies and histories to enter research, and how performance can open space for experiences that resist straightforward narration. The event is led by members of RAPT (Research Activism Performance Theatre), whose work brings together theatre and collaborative research to explore art as political and methodological practice. Ayisha Saniya will share work developed during her time as a Venice Fellow (British Council), reflecting on migration and cultural identity in dialogue with the 2025 Venice Biennale. Hosted by CRIA (Creative Research / Instituting Art), University of Leicester, in partnership with the Attenborough Arts Centre. Supported by the Leicester Institute for Advanced Studies and the School of Museum Studies.

Our popular Craft & Art Fair returns to showcase the work of some of the best local and regional craft makers and artists. Meet, browse and buy from over 50 selected exhibitors at each fair, showcasing some of the best jewellery, glass, ceramics, textiles, printmaking, painting, wood, stationery, homewares, accessories, artisan foods and more from across our region. Our galleries, shop and café will also be open for a full day experience of the centre. Booking is recommended beforehand however we also encourage people to drop-in on the day of the fair. Children and adults all require tickets but pricing is up to the individual.

This exhibition is in partnership with Wellcome Collection. Wellcome Collection and Attenborough Arts Centre are pleased to present ‘Jason and the Adventure of 254’, a major solo exhibition by Jason Wilsher-Mills. Showcasing his largest and most personal commission to date, this free exhibition is a joyful and subversive exploration of the body, drawing on the artist’s experience of becoming disabled as a child. Reimagining the gallery space as a hospital ward, Wilsher-Mills’ immersive installation of sculptures, illustrations and interactive dioramas challenges the cultural and societal perceptions surrounding disability, medicine and the human body. Through a kaleidoscope of colours and a touch of magic realism, the exhibition is also a celebration of family, his working-class background and the opportunities he received through hospital education, inviting audiences to explore childhood memories and creativity through the artist’s trademark humour. ‘Jason and the Adventure of 254’ is curated by Shamita Sharmacharja, Wellcome Collection Curator, and commissioned by Wellcome Collection.