Welcome to Spargo
A unique art school set deep in the Cornish wilderness.
Set against the backdrop of Cornwall's extraordinary countryside, woodlands and creative communities, HSSOA brings together a diverse programme of courses, workshops, talks and events led by practicing artists and specialists. From drawing, painting and sculpture to ceramics, printmaking and contemporary creative practice, our courses are designed for curious beginners and experienced artists alike.
Upcoming Courses & Events
Monday 11 August - Sunday 17 August, 2025
Join us for a hands-on sculpture modelling course led by the renowned artist Tim Shaw, RA.
Over 7 days, you'll learn the art of sculpting, in an intensive workshop that offers students instruction in the rudiments of drawing and modelling the figure, as well as learning how to make a plaster waste mould and cement fondu cast of the figure. Heavy emphasis will be on the observation of the human form. Whether you are just taking the first steps or an experienced artist, this course is designed to enhance your skills and creativity.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of sculpting at the picturesque Higher Spargo Farm.
Thursday 30th July. 7.30 - 9pm
Join Chris Jones of Woodland Valley Farm for a fascinating first-hand account of the Cornwall Beaver Project. As the farmer who brought beavers back to Cornwall in 2017, Chris will share the story of how these remarkable animals have transformed his farm, creating wetlands, increasing biodiversity, improving water quality and helping to reduce downstream flooding.
Drawing on nearly a decade of experience, Chris will explore what it really means to farm alongside a keystone species, the challenges and opportunities of rewilding, and what beavers can teach us about working with nature to build more resilient landscapes. Whether you’re interested in farming, conservation, climate resilience or simply curious about one of Britain’s most successful wildlife restoration projects, this promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking evening.
August 7th. 7 - 9PM
We are delighted to welcome Tim Smit, co-founder of the Eden Project and restorer of the Lost Gardens of Heligan, for a special evening in conversation.
Few individuals have reshaped Cornwall’s cultural and environmental landscape as profoundly as Tim Smit. Known for transforming bold ideas into world-renowned destinations, his work spans regeneration, horticulture, storytelling, sustainability and large-scale creative vision. His projects have demonstrated how imagination, ecology and enterprise can come together to revive places and inspire communities.
This evening offers a rare opportunity to hear Tim reflect on the ideas, experiences and provocations that continue to drive his work. In an informal and wide-ranging format, he will share stories, insights and future thinking — with space to respond to the moment and the audience. The conversation will open out for questions, creating a lively and unpredictable exchange.
Suitable for anyone interested in landscape, creativity, environmental innovation, entrepreneurship, or the power of ambitious thinking rooted in place.