About this Event

As part of your visit to Colchester Castle, join arts practitioner Clare Sams on Saturday 3 October, any time between 10.30am and 12.30pm, for a creative drop-in workshop inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry.

Colourful Normans: Using Drawing and Fabric Textures to Create a Story in Pictures explores how stories were told through images in Norman England. Taking inspiration from the scenes of the Bayeux Tapestry, participants will create their own Norman-inspired picture on paper, featuring characters, events or stories of their choosing.

Once their scene has been drawn, participants will use crayons and fabric rubbings to add colour, pattern and texture to their artwork. A range of woven fabrics will be available to place beneath the paper, allowing the textures of the cloth to be transferred into the design through rubbing techniques. The finished artwork will combine drawing and printed fabric textures to create a colourful scene inspired by Norman art and storytelling.

This is a paper-based drawing and colouring activity using fabric texture rubbings. It does not involve sewing, weaving or textile-making. Norman-themed colouring sheets will also be available for younger children.

Suitable for all ages and abilities, visitors are welcome to drop in at any point during the session and spend as much time as they wish creating their artwork.

Information on facilities, accessibility and how to find us can be found on our Colchester Castle Access page.

Please note that spaces are limited and, at busy times, you may be asked to wait before taking part.