Patrick Benson Workshop
The Children’s Bookshow allocates four free workshops for schools who attend a related theatre performance.
In this hands-on workshop, children will have the opportunity to become illustrators in their own right. Just like a real illustrator, they will be given a piece of writing and asked to interpret it visually, responding to any clues provided in the text. With the opportunity to look at some of Patrick Benson’s original artwork in detail, the children will come away with a real insight into the work of an illustrator.
- Suitable for:
- Years 5 and 6
We are profoundly grateful for the opportunity we were given in having Patrick into our class. He is a very engaging character, who works well with children and we were all held in awe by his skills. He was generous with his time and expertise and opened children's eyes to what is involved in the career of an illustrator.
What you need to know
- Length of workshop:
- Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
- Location of workshop:
- We will come to your school
- Number of children:
- Workshops are for a class of 30 children
- Suitable for:
- Years 5 and 6
Please note, a teacher must be present throughout the workshop
Materials needed
- Flipchart or whiteboard that Patrick can write on
- Pencils, coloured pencils and paper for the children
Book a related theatre performance to be eligible for one of four free workshops
This workshop is allocated to a school attending a specific theatre performance with 30 or more children; visit the performance page to find out more and book:
Are these performances not in your area? See a list of all our events
About Patrick Benson
Patrick Benson was born in 1956 and educated at Eton College before studying classical drawing in Florence and attending Chelsea Art School and St Martin’s School of Art. He worked in the fashion business until a chance meeting with the sister of Walker Books’ founder, Sebastian Walker, led him into a career in illustration.
He is best known for illustrating two modern classics: Owl Babies, written by Martin Waddell, and The Minpins by Roald Dahl.
On the day
- Please inform your school receptionist that our artist will be arriving so they can be welcomed warmly.
- A teacher must be present throughout the workshop.
- Make sure that all the materials that our artist has requested are ready and available.
- Please let us know if any of the children have particular requirements, and ensure that their normal carer is present.
- The offer of a cup of tea is often greatly appreciated!
Have any questions? Get in touch
Your contact for this performance is Julia Bayton, she will be happy to answer any queries you have:
- julia.bookshow@gmail.com
- Phone
- 07980 570975