Upcoming Courses
What will you learn on the course?
- The evolution of fairground art and its links to popular culture and pop art.
- The popular motifs and themes used by fairground artists to draw people in.
- How fairground art techniques were used to persuade and influence people at the fair and is sometimes described as ‘hypnosis in art’.
- The use of gold and aluminium leaf alongside vibrant colours to make the rides eye catching in sunlight and artificial light.
- The quirky layouts and styles of fairground lettering and ‘gag tickets’.
- Examples of real life restoration work by Joby and the Carters Steam Fair team on artwork created by Fred Fowle and Sid Howell.
- A guided tour of the extensive fairground art and fairground lettering collections on display in the workshops.
- Throughout the day you will gain an overview of the range of decorative styles including fairground lettering styles, scenic art, cut glass and gilding and you will also have the opportunity to try some of the these techniques for yourself.
Who teaches this course?
Joby was a toddler when Carters Steam Fair opened their first event in 1977 and he grew up fascinated by the artwork, lettering and history of the fairground rides.
He has dedicated his life to ensuring that these traditional artworks are enjoyed and appreciated and that their importance in popular culture and social history is recognised.
He is also passionate about keeping traditional decorative skills alive and takes pride in authentic restoration using heritage craft skills and avoiding modern day shortcuts.
Who is this course for?
This course is also popular with those involved with set design for TV and film as you will gain an understanding of the decorative styles which are authentic to different eras.
There will be demonstrations during the day and you can try techniques for yourself if you feel comfortable.
Where is the course held?
The courses are held in Jobys brand new workshop in Street, Somerset. You’ll be able to see examples of Joby’s signwriting as well as any current signwriting projects Joby is working on.
Address:
Unit 18 Rockhaven Business Centre, Gravenchon Way, Street, BA16 0HW
There is a limited private parking linked to the workshop, and we prioritise disabled parking. Please get in touch if this is you.
There is free parking in the neighbouring areas but please park sensibly and courteously.
Where is the nearest airport or train station?
25 miles from Bristol Airport
28 miles from Bristol Temple Meads Train station
13 miles from Castle Cary Train station
5min walk from Bus Stop at Sainsburys Street
What is included in the course price?
All materials are provided for the duration of the course, lunches and hot drinks are also provided. You may like to bring your own mug.
All students will also take home a copy of Joby Carter’s book, Signwriting Tips, Tricks and Inspiration worth £25 AND three starter signwriting brushes (sizes 1, 3 and 5) worth £35 for you to use during the course and take home with you afterwards. If you already have a copy of Joby’s book you can have a £25 credit to spend on posters or books at Joby’s gift shop
You have the opportunity to buy your own equipment at the end of the week including enamel paint, signwriting brushes, mahl sticks and palettes. Cash & card payments are accepted.
How many places are there on the course?
What happens when I book my course?
When you place your order you will be emailed an e-ticket, which is your course booking confirmation.
Where can I stay while I am on the course?
We recommend that you try to find places local to Street so your commute to the course is a short and easy one. There are plenty of options available for hotels and Air BnB’s in and around Street.
Local options include:
Premier Inn Glastonbury approximately 7 minutes drive
Middlewick Holiday Cottages approximately 15 minutes drive
Wookey Hole Hotel and lodges approximately 25 minutes drive
You can read about many local options on the Visit Somerset website here.
Joby’s workshop location is Unit 18 Rockhaven Business Centre, Gravenchon Way, Street BA16 0HW
Can I stay on site with my motorhome or caravan?
We are on a business park and therefore do not have facilities and space for you to stay on site even if you are able to bring your own motorhome, caravan, tent etc. Luckily there are a number of campsites nearby where you can stay. We recommend typing “camping Street Somerset” in your search engine to find the most local well reviewed results. These include Bobsfield Campsite, Larks Rise Caravan and Camping, Old Oaks Touring. 9We have not experienced them for ourselves and advise you contact them to ensure they are suitable for your needs.
You can read about many local accommodation options on the Visit Somerset website here.
Joby’s workshop location is Unit 18 Rockhaven Business Centre, Gravenchon Way, Street BA16 0HW
What equipment do I need to do the course?
You do not need to bring any materials or equipment with you, as we provide everything you need on the course.
Please remember to wear clothes that are comfortable, and you don’t mind getting messy, please wear sturdy closed toe footwear, no flip flops or sandals.
We provide food and hot drinks, but you might like to bring a mug or travel mug and your own spoon. If you want to bring any additional snacks you are welcome to do so.
What are the course timings?
On the first day we suggest you are here by 8.45am to give you enough time to get set up, meet other students, and grab a cuppa.
On the other days you need to arrive by 9am.
