The Wilson Museum

Coffee With A Curator: Volunteer Special
2026-09-02 13:30 - 14:00 (Europe/London)
*Please note this month’s Coffee With A Curator will be delivered by Wilson volunteers*
Join us for a special volunteer-led edition of our popular Coffee With A Curator sessions! In this informal half-hour talk, members of our volunteer team will share their research, knowledge and enthusiasm for some of their favourite objects from The Wilson’s extensive collections.
From pottery and works of art to fascinating items that reflect the social history of the Cheltenham area, you’ll have the opportunity to take a closer look at objects brought out from the archives and hear the stories that have captured our volunteers’ imaginations.
Book a place for £3, which includes a complimentary tea or coffee.
Book Now

Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
2026-09-02 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-09-16 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-10-07 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-10-21 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-11-04 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-11-18 08:00 - 17:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra is a community group enabling musicians and performance artists from a range of different backgrounds. The group was established to explore a collaborative space for improvisation and is open to anyone regardless of their ability or education. The group is led by award winning musician Chris Cundy with regular live performances taking place at Cheltenham Festivals.

These workshops explore exercises in creating surprise and spontaneity, conducting with visual pathways into communal music-making, exploring deep listening, and embracing new ways of performing music in public spaces.
Free on every first and third Wednesday of the month, 6-8PM.

Wilson Nights
2026-09-02 18:00 - 21:00
Join us for an evening of storytelling, creativity and shared histories as artists, writers and musicians explore the stories that shape our communities.
Stone Stories with Katie Mary (6–8pm | The Foyle)
Create your own story stone using images, symbols and memory with Artist in Residence Katie Mary. Inspired by everyday moments transformed into future mythology, you’ll add your own unique contribution to a growing collective archive. All materials provided.
Honeybourne Design Engine (6–8pm | The Courtyard)
Explore the hidden stories of Cheltenham with Neith Art & Sculpture. Respond to overlooked local histories and contribute ideas that will help shape a new series of public sculptures along the Honeybourne Line. Add your voice to a collaborative artwork celebrating the people and stories often left out of history.
An Evening with Jim O’Sullivan (8–9pm | The Lounge)
Local author Jim O’Sullivan reads from his novels before discussing the influence of social history on his writing. The evening concludes with a Q&A exploring the creative writing process and the growing impact of AI.
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra (6–8pm | The Play Café)
Join award-winning musician Chris Cundy and Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra for an open session exploring spontaneous music-making through listening, collaboration and experimentation. Open to musicians, performers and curious beginners alike—no experience necessary.
Free entry • No booking required
Instagram copy:
WILSON NIGHTS: STORIES
An evening of mythology, local history, writing and improvised music at The Wilson.
Create your own Story Stone with Artist in Residence Katie Mary.
Help shape the Honeybourne Design Engine by uncovering Cheltenham’s hidden stories with Neith Art & Sculpture.
Hear local author Jim O’Sullivan read from his novels, followed by a Q&A on writing, social history and AI.
Join Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra for an open session of collaborative music-making – everyone is welcome.
📅 Wednesday 2 September
🕕 6–9pm
📍 The Wilson
🎟 FREE • No booking required
Come along, get involved and help tell the next chapter.

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-09-03 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Practical Fine Art Classes for Adults: Introduction to Drawing
2026-09-11 13:30 - 2026-10-09 15:30
Join our Practical Fine Art for Beginners course and unlock your creativity!
Our lessons are tailored for those with little-to-no experience in art, but feel the desire to discover and create. At the end of the course, you will have honed your skills and gained confidence in your ability to produce your own artwork. Start your journey as an artist today.
Introduction to Drawing: Seeing Like an Artist
A foundational course introducing learners to the essential skills of drawing from
observation. Students learn key techniques for line, shape, tone, proportion, and composition
while building confidence in visual expression.

Learning Outcomes:
• Understand basic drawing materials and how to use them effectively.
• Draw from observation using line, shape, and proportion.
• Use light and shadow to create the illusion of form.
• Compose simple still-life drawings with balanced composition.
• Develop confidence in personal drawing style and seeing as an artist.
About Kitty Rubina-Skye
The tutor, Kitty Rubina-Skye, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Autumn Term Dates:
11 September, 18 September, 25 September, 2 October, 9 October
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Introduction to Drawing
2026-09-12 10:00 - 2026-10-10 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels! The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Drawing: Seeing Like an Artist
A foundational course introducing learners to the essential skills of drawing from
observation. Students learn key techniques for line, shape, tone, proportion, and composition
while building confidence in visual expression.

Learning Outcomes:
• Understand basic drawing materials and how to use them effectively.
• Draw from observation using line, shape, and proportion.
• Use light and shadow to create the illusion of form.
• Compose simple still-life drawings with balanced composition.
• Develop confidence in personal drawing style and seeing as an artist.
About Kitty Rubina-Skye
The tutor, Kitty Rubina-Skye, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Autumn Term Dates:
12 September, 19 September, 26 September, 3 October, 10 October
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Hand Sewing Basics: Applique with Alice Biggadike
2026-09-16 18:00 - 20:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Make your own applique design on a square patch. This will be beginner friendly but can be made suitable for more advanced hand sewers if they are up for more challenging techniques.
This series of sessions is part of the OFF GRID programme for 14 to 17s only.
Further info here.

OFF GRID - Hand Sewing Basics
2026-09-16 18:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a new series of free monthly workshops for young people who love art, creativity and trying new things. Each session introduces a different artistic practice – from animation and photography to drawing, performance, sewing and wood carving – led by a different resident artist from The Wilson.
Whether you’re already making work or just curious to explore something new, these small, hands-on workshops are designed to help you experiment, learn skills and meet other creative young people in a relaxed and supportive environment.
FREE
All sessions run 6 – 8pm at The Wilson
Limited to 10 places per session – booking essential!
To book: oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
16 September – Figuring It Out, Character Drawing Session with Alice Biggadike
Join Alice Biggadike as she guides you through an approach to creating curious creatures. Drawing from your imagination can be daunting, so Alice aims to break it down into simple steps in this session.

We Are Creators Sessions
2026-09-16 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-10-21 18:00 - 21:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
We Are Creators Sessions bring together a growing community of makers, performers, musicians and creatives who meet monthly at The Wilson. Led by local artists and organisations, these monthly sessions offer welcoming spaces to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and explore your creativity together.
Community Theatre Group
The Foyle | 6–8pm
A free creative drama group for anyone aged 18+ with an interest in theatre, TV or film – whether on stage or behind the scenes. Explore performing, writing, improvisation, sound, film, design and more through regular practical workshops in a friendly, supportive environment.
There are no auditions, no pressure and no previous experience needed. The group develops creative projects together, from performances and podcasts to film, while offering opportunities to collaborate with professional practitioners along the way.
Who is it for? Anyone aged 18+ with a curious mind and an interest in creativity, whatever your experience.

ND Hub
The Courtyard | 6–8pm
A welcoming peer support group for neurodivergent adults, combining art, craft and conversation in a calm, inclusive environment. Led by ND Hub Gloucestershire, each session uses creativity to explore wellbeing, self-expression and connection in a relaxed, supportive space.
Who is it for? Neurodivergent adults looking to connect creatively with others.

Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
Play Cafe | 6–8pm
An open community for musicians, sound-makers and performance artists of all backgrounds and experience levels. Led by award-winning musician Chris Cundy, the group explores improvisation through listening, collaboration and experimentation, creating original music together in a welcoming environment.
Who is it for? Anyone curious about improvisation, from complete beginners to experienced performers.

Cheltenham Craftivist Collective
The Lounge | 6.30–8.30pm
An inclusive group for anyone interested in craft, creativity and positive change. Bring your own project – or simply come along to be inspired – and enjoy an evening of making, sharing skills and connecting with others. The group also hosts occasional artist-led textile workshops and collaborative creative projects.
Who is it for? Everyone is welcome, whatever your experience.

Zesty Queer Life Drawing
Community Gallery | 7–9pm
A free, welcoming life drawing session celebrating creativity, queerness and self-expression. Hosted by artist Jussara Nazaré, each session combines life drawing with playful creative challenges, colourful costumes and conversations about art, culture and identity.
Who is it for? LGBTQ+ people and allies aged 18+, from complete beginners to experienced artists.

OFF GRID
Artist Studios | 6–8pm
OFF GRID is a free monthly creative club for young people aged 14–17, led by The Wilson’s Artists in Residence. Each session explores a different art form – from animation and photography to wood carving, drawing and performance – giving participants the chance to experiment, develop new skills and meet other young creatives in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Every workshop is designed and led by a different resident artist, offering a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of creative practices throughout the year.
Who is it for? Young people aged 14–17. No previous artistic experience is needed.
How to join
Our monthly We Are Creators Sessions are free and open to everyone – just drop in and get involved. Whether you’re coming on your own or with a friend, you’ll receive a warm welcome.
OFF GRID workshops for 14–17 year olds require advance booking due to limited places. You can book your place through each workshop’s individual event page.
If you have any questions, or would like to discuss access requirements before attending, please contact Oliver Tipper at oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk.

Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary: A History of Art Talk
2026-09-27 11:00 - 12:00
Join art historian Sarah Middleton for a lively exploration of artists across four centuries who have transformed everyday subjects into extraordinary works of art, as seen in The Art of Looking exhibition.
From the domestic scenes of Jan Steen and the intimate portraits of Rembrandt to the still lives of Vanessa Bell, Duncan Grant and William Scott, Sarah will explore how artists have used the ordinary to reveal something about their time, their inner worlds and the act of looking itself. This lecture invites us to slow down, look more closely and consider what becomes visible when we give an artwork and its history our full attention.
Note: We have kept ticket prices as low as possible to make this event accessible. However, if the ticket price is a barrier, a limited number of free tickets are available. Please contact us to find out more: margot.minnotthomas@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
Book Now

Looking, Noticing, Sharing: A Look Club with Debbie Kersley
2026-09-27 13:00 - 14:00
Join artist and facilitator Debbie Kersley for an hour of slow looking, noticing and sharing. Using a specific approach called Visual Thinking Strategies, we’ll take time to look, talk and listen together in response to a selection of works.
Everyone is invited to share what they notice in response to the question, “What’s going on in this picture?”. Debbie will weave the different observations together, as we build together a richer, layered understanding of the work.
This approach builds on our lived experiences – no knowledge of art is needed. There are no right or wrong answers. Instead, it’s a welcoming opportunity to puzzle, wonder, hear other perspectives and perhaps change our minds as we look closer and notice more.
Note: We have kept ticket prices as low as possible to make this event accessible. However, if the ticket price is a barrier, a limited number of free tickets are available. Please contact us to find out more: margot.minnotthomas@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
Book Now

Tools for Observation: A Drawing Workshop
2026-09-27 14:30 - 16:00
Join artist Yanli Shen for an adult drawing workshop inspired by The Art of Looking. Beginning with close observation of Rachel Ruysch’s still life paintings, the session explores drawing as a tool for slowing down, paying attention and discovering new ways of seeing.
Working with a selection of natural objects, you’ll experiment with playful observational drawing exercises before developing a longer drawing of your own. No previous drawing experience is needed – the workshop is about curiosity, attention and discovery rather than technical perfection!
Please note this workshop will take place in the third floor gallery, The Art of Looking. There is lift access.
About Yanli
Note: We have kept ticket prices as low as possible to make this event accessible. However, if the ticket price is a barrier, a limited number of free tickets are available. Please contact us to find out more: margot.minnotthomas@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
Book Now

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-10-01 10:30 - 12:30
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

An ‘After Session’ with Hettie Judah
2026-10-10 14:00 - 16:00
Join us for an informal, intimate, daytime event built around art, conversation and community.
The session will open with short presentations from four local artists, each of whom will share their recent and current work.
Hettie Judah then takes a seat at the centre for an open, hour-long conversation, taking questions about the art world, about her work, about navigating a creative life. Bring whatever’s on your mind.
Afterwards, stay for refreshments and a chat. Hettie will also be selling and signing copies of her new book, How to Enter the Art World After — a myth-busting guide for artists whose lives are complicated and human.
“Vital guidance for all artists. Empowering, encouraging and enlightening.” — Robert Diament, Talk Art
About Hettie Judah:
Hettie Judah is a writer and curator. She is a regular contributor to The Guardian, Frieze and The Times Literary Supplement, and writes a monthly column for Apollo magazine. Between 2016 and 2024 she was the chief art critic for the British daily newspaper The i. She was the curator of the acclaimed Hayward Gallery touring exhibition Acts of Creation: On Art and Motherhood.
Book Now

Performance, Costume & Storytelling with Eddie Langham
2026-10-21 18:00 - 20:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
An interactive and collaborative creative workshop exploring identity, narrative, performance, and image-making through styling and costume. Participants will work together using garments, accessories, live models, and collaborative direction to create visually driven characters and stories that are captured through photography during the session.
This series of sessions is part of the OFF GRID programme for 14 to 17s only.
Further info here.

OFF GRID - Performance, Costume & Storytelling
2026-10-21 18:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a new series of free monthly workshops for young people who love art, creativity and trying new things. Each session introduces a different artistic practice – from animation and photography to drawing, performance, sewing and wood carving – led by a different resident artist from The Wilson.
Whether you’re already making work or just curious to explore something new, these small, hands-on workshops are designed to help you experiment, learn skills and meet other creative young people in a relaxed and supportive environment.
All sessions run 6 – 8pm at The Wilson
Free to attend
21 October – Performance, Costume & Storytelling with Eddie Langham
An interactive and collaborative creative workshop exploring identity, narrative, performance, and image-making through styling and costume. Participants will work together using garments, accessories, live models, and collaborative direction to create visually driven characters and stories that are captured through photography during the session.

Halloween Trail
2026-10-24 10:00 - 2026-11-03 16:00
Something spooky is stirring at the Wilson!
Follow our Halloween trail around the galleries and keep your eyes peeled for creepy creatures, mysterious objects and hidden surprises lurking among the galleries. Can you find them all? Pick up your trail map, explore the museum and see what you can discover along the way – and there’s a Halloween treat waiting for you at the end!
The trail runs during gallery hours, 10am – 4pm. Tickets are available through our website and from the café on arrival, and can be used at any time of the day.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - October Half Term
2026-10-28 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 5-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
• On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
• We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
• Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well – exploring can be hungry work!
• Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the café on the day if you wish.
To ensure the best experience for all children and to support the needs of the group, the minimum age for this activity has been changed to 5 years and over. Children attending must be fully toilet trained.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Halloween Party
2026-10-30 14:00 - 16:00
Get ready for a spooky afternoon of creativity and adventure at The Wilson!
Come along for a Halloween craft party packed with creepy, crawly and colourful things to make and do. Head into the wild darkness to discover what creatures might be hiding in the museum…
Come in your favourite Halloween costume, get creative and see what you can find. A fun-filled Halloween adventure for curious little witches, wizards, monsters and explorers!
Your Halloween party tickets includes access to craft activities, glitter tattoos, 20% off in the cafe, Into The Night experience, and a trick or treat sweet.
This is not a drop-off session, children must have their adults with them throughout the session.
Adults do not need to buy a ticket for themselves.
Book Now

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-11-05 10:30 - 12:30
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Practical Fine Art Classes for Adults: Introduction to Watercolours
2026-11-13 13:30 - 2026-12-11 15:30
Join our Practical Fine Art for Beginners course and unlock your creativity!
Our lessons are tailored for those with little-to-no experience in art, but feel the desire to discover and create. At the end of the course, you will have honed your skills and gained confidence in your ability to produce your own artwork. Start your journey as an artist today.
Introduction to Watercolour
A practical and creative introduction to watercolour painting, designed for beginners to
explore essential techniques, materials, and colour theory. Students will learn how to control
water and pigment while developing confidence in painting expressive studies.
Learning Outcomes:
Understand and prepare essential watercolour materials.
• Understand foundation colour theory, mix and layer colours with confidence.
• Apply key techniques such as wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, and glazing.
• Explore experimental watercolour methods.
• Use tone, contrast, and texture effectively.
• Complete a watercolour composition.
About Kitty Rubina-Skye
The tutor, Kitty Rubina-Skye, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Winter Term Dates:
13 November, 20 November, 27 November, 4 December, 11 December
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Introduction to Watercolour
2026-11-14 10:00 - 2026-12-12 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels! The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. Plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Watercolour
A practical and creative introduction to watercolour painting, designed for beginners to
explore essential techniques, materials, and colour theory. Students will learn how to control
water and pigment while developing confidence in painting expressive studies.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand and prepare essential watercolour materials.
• Understand foundation colour theory, mix and layer colours with confidence.
• Apply key techniques such as wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, and glazing.
• Explore experimental watercolour methods.
• Use tone, contrast, and texture effectively.
• Complete a watercolour composition.
About Kitty Rubina-Skye
The tutor, Kitty Rubina-Skye, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Winter Term Dates:
14 November, 21 November, 28 November, 5 December, 12 December
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Where the Birds AR: Meditative Ink Wash with Albert Chung
2026-11-18 18:00 - 20:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Inspired by migratory birds and contemporary ink painting, this workshop combines colouring, ink wash and augmented reality. Participants will colour and paint their own bird using Chinese ink and watercolour, then bring it to life through the Where the Birds AR app. The session will also include a short-guided meditation and meditative ink wash activity, encouraging creativity, calm and reflection. No experience needed.
This series of sessions is part of the OFF GRID programme for 14 to 17s only.
Further info here.

OFF GRID - Where the Birds AR
2026-11-18 18:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a new series of free monthly workshops for young people who love art, creativity and trying new things. Each session introduces a different artistic practice – from animation and photography to drawing, performance, sewing and wood carving – led by a different resident artist from The Wilson.
Whether you’re already making work or just curious to explore something new, these small, hands-on workshops are designed to help you experiment, learn skills and meet other creative young people in a relaxed and supportive environment.
All sessions run 6 – 8pm at The Wilson
Free to attend
Limited to 10 places per session – booking essential!
To book: oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
18 November: Where the Birds AR: Meditative Ink Wash with Albert Chung
Inspired by migratory birds and contemporary ink painting, this workshop combines colouring, ink wash and augmented reality. Participants will colour and paint their own bird using Chinese ink and watercolour, then bring it to life through the Where the Birds AR app. The session will also include a short-guided meditation and meditative ink wash activity, encouraging creativity, calm and reflection. No experience needed.
