Saturday 12th September - Sketching and painting with Simon Whitcomb

As part of our Portsmouth 100 festivities and ahead of our "Your Museum, Your Stories, Your City" exhibition (opening in October 20206), join us for a monthly Saturday morning filled with fascinating facts, stories and anecdotes about our city’s iconic or hidden landmarks. Then let your creativity flow through collage, sketching, drawing, storytelling or photography with a local artist—each venue offering its own unique art form. Explore, imagine and celebrate Portsmouth 100 in the most inspiring way!

On Saturday 12th September 2026, join local artist Simon Whitcomb for a sketching and painting workshop around Milton Locks.

After an introduction to the past and present history of Milton Locks, we will go for a gentle stroll along the locks and canal, retracing the steps of Portsmouth's most well-known painter,Edward King (1862-1951), a familiar figure in the Milton area, who painted scenes of houseboats by Milton Locks after WW2.

Afterwards, Simon will lead an outdoor sketching and painting workshop, using pencils and watercolours, where participants can create their own artistic interpretation of the peaceful and inspiring locks and old canal.

Open to anyone aged 16+. No experience required — just bring your curiosity and stories!

All materials provided.

"Milton Boat", watercolour by Simon Whitcomb

Description supplied by the event organiser.