John Constable relative runs painting class at Affordable Art Fair

Joanna Constable-Green will set up her easel in front of the pond next to the Affordable Art Fair this week.

The East Barnet-based artist will give painting tips to students a stone's throw from where her 19th Century relative painted some of his famous works.

John Constable painted many views of the Heath where he stayed periodically from 1819 until his death in 1837 (Image: Archant)

Constable lived in Hampstead on and off between 1819 and his death in 1837 and took daily walks on the Heath with his sketchbook to capture the skies and landscape such as Branch Hill Pond.

Joanna says: "My father did an in depth look into our family tree and found that we were distantly related to John Constable.

"By the time I found that out, I was already an artist and had wanted to be one ever since I could walk."

The painting classes take place next to the Affordable Art Fair marquee just off East Heath Road (Image: Piers Allardyce)

Joanna grew up in King's Cross and Camden Town and attended Camden School for Girls before studying art at Central Martins and Cheltenham School of Fine Art.

"My father was very creative and so is my mother so there was a strong strand coming from each parent," she says.

"She was an art teacher, and we had a childhood full of art and creativity.

"The weird thing is I do think Constable looks a little bit like me."

As well as her one hour ‘Painting on The Heath’ classes, Joanna will be exhibiting her latest collection at the fair's Noon Powell display from May 8-12.The Affordable Art Fair runs until May 12 (Image: Piers Allardyce)

Joanna, who says she "uses colour to carry emotions" in her figurative works, added: "The weather is set to be lovely and the setting at the pond is beautiful and inspiring with reflection on the water, so the classes are going to be great."

Now in its 11th year, Hampstead's Affordable Art Fair  sees thousands of works by UK and international artists on display in a giant marquee on the Lower Fairground.

New for this year is a labyrinthine installation by Belgian artist Jules Wittock; a Dog Photobooth to immortalise your four-legged friends.

Emerging artists from across University of the Arts London show their work at the in Made in Arts London’s showcase, as well as finalists in the Jackson’s Art Prize.

All artworks are priced from £50 - £7,500 with the chance to browse the galleries or enjoy summer lates with DJs and drinks until 9pm.