Artist in residence - Textured Art Play

In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore how to create rich, tactile surfaces using texture paste, sand, and acrylic paint. The session is designed as an open, playful introduction to building depth and dimension through layering, mark-making, and material exploration.

Participants will be encouraged to experiment freely, embrace imperfection, and follow their curiosity as they work. The workshop offers practical guidance alongside space for personal exploration, making it suitable for all experience levels. By the end of the session, attendees will have a deeper understanding of texture as both a visual and sensory element, as well as the confidence to continue experimenting in their own creative practice. Materials will be provided.

This workshop is for adults.

About the artist

Aileen Williams Artist is a multidisciplinary artist and writer whose practice centers on texture, process, and the transformative power of making. With a BA and MA in English and Writing, Aileen brings a narrative sensibility to her visual work, approaching art as a form of embodied storytelling.
Shaped by years of personal trauma and healing, Aileen’s work has evolved into a space where activism and play coexist. She is passionate about using art to amplify the voices of the voiceless and has led and supported numerous fundraising efforts for social and healing-centered causes. At the same time, her current practice intentionally embraces play, texture, and sensory engagement as acts of reclamation—inviting joy, softness, and wonder back into the creative process. For Aileen, working with texture is both intuitive and political: a way of honouring the body, the imperfect, and the tactile as sites of knowledge and resilience.

This workshop is part of a public engagment programme for our artist resident scheme which means the ticket price covers only the materials. If you are able and wish to we have an option to donate to Jelly.

By attending this workshop you are agreeing to act in accordance with our workshop behaviour policy which can be viewed here: https://www.jelly.org.uk/policies

Find us in our next space on the 1st Floor in Broad St Mall. We are the last unit nearest the public toilets.

Inclusivity, safety, respect, confidentiality and consent are fundamental principles at Jelly workshops and events.

Frequently asked questions:

We are a small team working behind the scenes answering your questions. If you email us via eventbrite or via our website we will answer as soon as we can.

Where are you based?

Our studios are located within Broad St Mall. You can find us on the first floor. We are the last unit before the toilets and exit to the carpark. If you get lost please ask any Broad St Mall security guard and they will direct you.

If I cannot make my paid workshop, can I transfer my ticket to another event or get a refund?

We are able to offer a refund or transfer your ticket to a future event if you contact us a minimum of 7 days before the event starts. After this time we cannot offer any refunds or transfers. 48 hours before the event you can contact us to enquire about a waiting list and we will endeavour to transfer your ticket. Please note that eventbrite fees are non refundable.

How can I find out more about Jelly?

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Can I arrive early?

To allow ample time for our workshop host to prepare the space and set everything up, we kindly request that you arrive no earlier than 5 minutes before the scheduled start time. This allows us to create a welcoming atmosphere and ensure everything is ready for your arrival.

If you're curious about the space we're more than happy to accommodate your request. Contact us and we can provide you with photos of the space or arrange a visit prior to the workshop. We want to make sure you feel comfortable and excited about the experience!