Here are the answers to the most frequent questions we get asked about our courses, but if you can’t find what you’re looking for, do please ask by completing the form on the Get in Touch page, and we’ll be very happy to help.
What happens if I miss a class? If you miss a class don’t worry, we always make sure you get caught up so you don’t miss out on any of the teaching or the chance to complete every project. We will spend time with you one-to-one going through the missed class, showing you how to approach the project and give you the handout so you can do the project at home. If there’s a space available in another class the same week as the missed class, you are welcome to come along at the alternative time so you don’t miss the class at all, but we do ask you to book this in advance please as we can’t guarantee a space.
What materials do I need? All you need is a sketchbook, drawing pencils, eraser, ruler and appropriate paper for each medium. If you don’t already have these items, don’t worry as we have starter packs available which contain everything you need for the whole course in an art case so you can carry everything to and from class easily. If you need more paper, you can just buy what you need from us, one sheet at a time. Everything else is supplied for your use in class, so you don’t need to go out and buy lots of things or spend a fortune to be able to fully participate. Amongst other things, in class we provide use of a drawing board, pastels, watercolour and acrylic paint, paint brushes, a water pot, blending sticks, masking tape, masking fluid, artist’s sponges, a cutting board and lots more! There’s also a weekly handout to take home and a variety of resource photographs to work from, and when appropriate we provide items so you can draw from life in class. Once you’ve learned how to use the materials in class, if you’d like to purchase your own to use at home, then we do have everything to available buy at special discount prices for our students.
When do the classes run? Our classes are held on weekday mornings from 09.30 until 12.30 and afternoons from 13.30 until 16.30.
Is there a follow-on course? Absolutely! Every course is different, with new projects and new techniques introduced each time. We run three courses a year and many of our clients return each time to learn new skills and keep improving.
Are classes suitable for complete beginners? Our foundation curriculum assumes no prior knowledge or experience, so this course is perfect even if you’ve never done any drawing or painting before. We always have complete beginners in our classes, so if that’s you, you have nothing to worry about. Everyone works at their own pace, and you can be assured of lots of encouragement and support from our tutor, class assistant and your fellow students with more experience. We all started out as complete beginners!
I’ve got some experience and / or I have attended classes elsewhere in the past, are these classes suitable for me? Our flexible curriculum caters for everyone. Advanced learners will find they have lots of opportunities to learn new techniques and improve their existing skills under the guidance of a highly experienced professional artist tutor.
Can I pay for classes as I go? Our classes are designed to be taught as a whole course package of thirteen weekly sessions and an end of course exhibition. Places are limited, therefore we are regrettably unable to accept students on a pay as you go basis.
What ages are the classes for? Our classes are for adults of all ages from 18 to 90 plus. Many of our clients work part time or are retired, but whatever your age, you will be warmly welcomed and quickly make new friends in our fun and sociable classes.
How long is each lesson? Our lessons are three hours each. This means your tutor is able to provide a comprehensive demonstration at the beginning of the class while still being able to give everyone lots of individual support, and our students have plenty of time to work on each project.
How long is the course? The course is fourteen sessions over thirteen weeks. We have thirteen classes and the fourteenth and final session is our end of course exhibition which is held later in the thirteenth week.
How big are the classes? Places on our courses are limited to keep class sizes small enough for everyone to receive quality tuition. As well as your professional artist class tutor, there is a class assistant with knowledge of the lesson who both supports the tutor and deals with all the administrative aspects of running the class, therefore freeing up the tutor's time to focus entirely on teaching.