Batik and Blossoms: Eleanor Mills Concludes Creative Workshop Series at Thomas Gainsborough School

We are delighted to share highlights from the final session of Eleanor Mills’ inspiring workshop series at Thomas Gainsborough School, supported by a generous grant from the Stour Valley Society Arts Council.

The sixth and final Art Club workshop marked a joyful and memorable end to what has been a truly enriching collaboration. This month, students took part in a hands-on batik workshop—an exploration of wax-resist dyeing, led by Eleanor with guidance from the ever-supportive Lucy Nichol.

The session focused on floral designs, with students first working from a beautifully drawn outline provided by Eleanor. From there, they were encouraged to develop their own creative compositions, playing with pattern and shape to express their individual styles. Though working with hot wax presented a challenge at first, the group quickly gained confidence, transforming their fabrics into vibrant botanical pieces. A carefully chosen palette of greens and yellows tied the work thematically to Eleanor’s own final collaborative artwork, which will be proudly displayed at Mill Tye Gallery later this year.

The atmosphere was one of focus, excitement, and shared creativity—qualities that have defined this workshop series from the start. Eleanor’s ability to foster confidence and curiosity in young artists has been a joy to witness, and this final session was no exception.

Reflecting on the experience, Eleanor said:

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to teach the next generation of artists, especially with Lucy Nichol by my side, guiding me through both the teaching and the fun of creating art. I’d also like to thank Angela Verghese at the Stour Valley Society Arts Council, as this wouldn’t have been as amazing without the grant. And, of course, a big thank you to Peter at the Mill Tye for all the support.”

We would like to extend our thanks to Thomas Gainsborough School for their openness and enthusiasm in hosting these workshops, and to the students for their energy, talent and willingness to learn.

As this chapter closes, we look ahead with excitement. Eleanor’s collaborative piece—featuring elements inspired by the students' contributions—will be on show as part of her upcoming exhibition, An Appliqué Afternoon, opening on Saturday 6th September 2025 at Mill Tye Gallery.

This project has been a celebration of creativity, mentorship and the powerful role the arts play in shaping and inspiring young minds. We can’t wait to see where this partnership leads next.

FIND OUT MORE Eleanor Mills 'An Appliqué Afternoon'