Choose from a variety of creative art courses

Explore your creativity through painting and drawing and choose from a variety of creative art classes. With a huge range of subjects to learn from, you can choose from online or in-person options.

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Our creative arts courses will get you working with pastels and pencils, exploring fine art and even get you out and about discovering new galleries in your spare time. 

Paints to pastels

Delivered by experienced art tutors, why not try getting creative with clay, or getting hands-on painting your very own masterpiece. 

If you’re interested in drawing, you won’t be disappointed either. Collage making, oil painting, pastel painting and printing are just some of the subjects that have proved popular in recent years.  

Many of our arts courses are delivered for different levels of experience too, so whether you’re a beginner or a little more advanced, you’ll be able to choose the art course that’s right for you. 

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Art Practical: Paint an Expressive Landscape with Acrylic

Unlock the vibrant world of acrylic painting in our one-day workshop, "Paint an Expressive Landscape with Acrylic," held at the Springbourne Library. This immersive course is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, providing a comprehensive introduction to the techniques and principles of landscape painting using acrylics. During this enriching day, you will delve into the expressive potential of acrylics, learning to capture the essence and mood of a landscape through colour, texture, and composition. Guided by an experienced artist instructor, you will explore various painting techniques, from bold brushwork to subtle blending, to create dynamic and evocative landscapes.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 12/07/2024 -
Fri 12/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 3:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Springbourne Library Community Room (Bou
297A Holdenhurst Road
Bournemouth
BH8 8BX
Tutor:
Abi Kremer
Course code:
Q00015414
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
1 place remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £23.10

Art Practical: Portraiture Drawing

To introduce students to the art of portraiture drawing in a relaxed and supportive environment. Following on from Portraiture Painting Q00014044, this course takes students further into the basics of sketching and then drawing faces to gain a good likeness. It provides step by step instructions on positioning the features, the use of light and shade as well as drawing techniques such as pencil and charcoal. The course is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced students. The course will provide you with an understanding of the methods, materials and concepts required to create both ‘correctly’ and expressively drawn portraits.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 12/07/2024 -
Fri 19/07/2024
Times:
2:30pm - 4:30pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Frank Ferrie
Course code:
Q00016294
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
0 places remaining
Status:
Waiting list
Fee range
Free to £14.80

Craft: Seasonal Painting & Drawing

Learners on this course will explore the unique characteristics of the season and learn how to capture their essence on canvas and paper. Through guided instruction, in class sessions, demonstrations and outdoor sketching - (weather permitting), learners will develop their skills in observation, composition, colour theory and brushwork and drawing skills. You will learn how to use a variety of materials to enable you create art pieces.

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 11/07/2024 -
Thu 18/07/2024
Times:
11:00am - 2:30pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Washington Old Hall
The Avenue
Washington
North East
NE38 7LE
Tutor:
Guest Speaker
Course code:
Q00014955
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £37.80

Care 2: Make a 'fiddle blanket'

This course is for carers, former carers and the cared for, join me to create a “fiddle” blanket for a loved one, possibly with Dementia, who finds it hard to keep their hands still. A fiddle blanket can be used to make a loved one feel calmer. We will share ideas so that you can make changes after the session.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 10/07/2024 -
Wed 10/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 11:30am
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Catherine Wilcock
Course code:
Q00011050
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

WEA Membership

For just £15 a year, you can:

  • Join our popular, award-winning weekly lecture series,
  • Access an archive of over 100 past lectures,
  • Get priority online and phone booking for autumn courses (England only),
  • Receive our Highway magazine and access back issues,
  • Attend our members’ annual conference.

Just add us to your basket to sign up today!

Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
WEA Membership

Art Practical: Art and About: Sketching on the Southbank, Thames River & Bridges (July)

Part of the WEA Art and About Festival 2024! If you fancied yourself as an urban sketcher but never had the confidence to work outside alone, join these sociable sessions to capture an aspect or view of London’s River Thames and Bridges by the vibrant Southbank. Whilst drawing on location, we will be using dry materials, pen/ink alongside watercolour for line and wash sketches and work with two sizes of sketchbook (A5 and A4/3). Toilets and Meeting Point will be at Topolski Studio where you will also have the chance to view the artist’s work after the session, guided by Topolski’s grandson. This will be 2 Wednesday sessions, July 10th and 24th at 2pm to 5.30pm. The sessions will be 3 hours with a half hour break.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 10/07/2024 -
Wed 24/07/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 5:30pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Meeting Point: Topolski Studio
Topolski Studios SBC
Access Road
Arch 158
Hungerford Arches, Belvedere Rd,
London
SE1 8XU
Tutor:
Debra Collis
Course code:
Q00015131
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
5 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £35.00

Art Practical: Art Practical: Portraiture Drawing

To introduce students to the art of portraiture drawing in a relaxed and supportive environment. Following on from Portraiture Painting Q00014043, this course takes students further into the basics of sketching and then drawing faces to gain a good likeness. It provides step by step instructions on positioning the features, the use of light and shade as well as drawing techniques such as pencil and charcoal. The course is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced students. The course will provide you with an understanding of the methods, materials and concepts required to create both ‘correctly’ and expressively drawn portraits.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 10/07/2024 -
Wed 17/07/2024
Times:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Frank Ferrie
Course code:
Q00016293
How you'll learn:
Online
Status:
Waiting list
Fee range
Free to £14.80

Craft: Summer Wreath making

During this workshop, you will learn all the essential techniques, starting from mossing the base to selecting flowers that retain their vibrant colours and dry naturally. You'll also have access to a variety of foliage and other decorative elements to personalize your wreath. Additionally, we'll provide a selection of ribbons for you to adorn your creation, adding an extra touch of elegance but feel free to bring your own as well. After completing your wreath, learn how to maintain its freshness for several weeks. Learn how to allow the materials to gently dry out, ensuring your wreath lasts beautifully throughout the summer months, becoming a cherished piece for you to enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 09/07/2024 -
Tue 09/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Riverside Community Health Project (Newc
Carnegie Building
Atkinson Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 8XS
Tutor:
Elaine Swan
Course code:
Q00014899
How you'll learn:
In venue
Status:
Waiting list
Fee range
Free to £12.60

Art Practical: Abstract Landscape Painting & Drawing

The day course is for anyone interested in advancing their landscape painting skills through a more abstract perspective. While open to participants of all levels, having some prior experience in painting would be beneficial. In a friendly and supportive group, the tutor will take us through gathering visual references, sketching, colour work and creating a landscape piece of work in your chosen media. Participants will have the opportunity to express their creativity and experiment with abstract approaches under the guidance of the tutor. Over the day we will spend time out in the landscape, where possible, taking photos and sketch book work. The aim is to explore abstract approaches and create an abstract landscape work.

Course Information

Dates:
Sat 06/07/2024 -
Sat 06/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 5:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Karen Davies
Course code:
Q00014459
How you'll learn:
Online
Status:
Waiting list
Fee range
Free to £25.90

"Binding Dimensions" - Arts & Crafts - Book Binding for Beginners (Multiply West Sussex)

*Please note - this course is specifically for residents of West Sussex as part of the local Multiply project. Please do not apply for this course if you do not live in West Sussex - thanks for your understanding* Explore the art of bookbinding with a twist of mathematics in our Basic Book Binding course. Discover the fundamental techniques of creating beautiful, handcrafted books while integrating essential mathematical principles. From calculating spine width to precision measuring for cover alignment, you'll learn how mathematical concepts enhance the functional structure and aesthetics of your bindings. Enjoy these hands-on sessions where you'll master stitching, folding, and gluing, transforming sheets of paper into beautiful personalised books. Whether you're a novice or seasoned crafter, this course promises to elevate your bookbinding skills while developing your understanding of the mathematical concepts inherent in book-binding.

Course Information

Dates:
Sat 06/07/2024 -
Sat 13/07/2024
Times:
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Joanne Liddle
Course code:
Q00016097
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

Art Practical: Day at the Museum

Drawing from Nature: A One-Day Course at the Russell Cotes Museum. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of natural artistry with our one-day "Drawing from Nature" course, proudly taking place at the Russell Cotes Museum. This unique experience invites you to explore the intricate beauty of the natural world through the lens of art. In this intensive workshop, you will be guided by an experienced artist to hone your observational skills and artistic techniques. The course is designed to cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned artists, ensuring a supportive and enriching learning environment for everyone.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 05/07/2024 -
Fri 05/07/2024
Times:
10:30am - 3:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum (Bour
East Cliff
Bournemouth
BH1 3AA
Tutor:
Abi Kremer
Course code:
Q00015418
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
0 places remaining
Status:
Waiting list (Join waiting list)
Fee range
Free to £21.00



The courses below have already started, but are still available to book.

Craft: Summer Papercrafting

During this course learners will have the opportunity to make a small range of decorative items with paper and card in Summer themes. Explore the joy of creating items which you can give to friends and family who will appreciate the personal touch of your handmade cards, gifting and decorative items. Add a decorative touch to your home with items made. Bring your enthusiasm and prepare to discover the wonderful world of crafting and the fabulous range of possibilities it offers. Immerse yourself in crafting joy! To participate you do not need specialised equipment, a standard craft kit of scissors, glue, pencil, ruler, double-sided sticky tape, papers/card, coloured pens/pencils will be sufficient (details of specific materials required for each activity will be advised during the course). There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and share ideas as we craft along together within a friendly, supportive online environment. Once you discover the fun and mindful benefits of crafting there'll be no stopping you!

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 02/07/2024 -
Tue 23/07/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
4 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Rachel Holland-Hargreaves
Course code:
Q00015285
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
5 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £29.60

Art Practical: Learn to Paint Landscapes

Learning about Landscape Art is a fascinating and rewarding topic; it tracks an evolving story looking at different ages, from 19th Century innovators such as JMW Turner, through to Impressionism, Expressionism and Modernism in general, right up to the 21st Century. This course will also introduce you to some lesser- known female artists who have been formerly neglected by the art establishment. Inspired by these examples, shown at the beginning of each lesson in an interactive visual presentation, we will develop skills in a range of drawing and painting media, including drawing inks, chalk and oil pastels, watercolour, acrylic, collage and mixed media. This course is for complete beginners and those looking to improve their skills and develop their own style. Please note that this is a 5-session course running from Monday 01/07/2024 - Monday 29/07/2024.

Course Information

Dates:
Mon 01/07/2024 -
Mon 29/07/2024
Times:
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Duration:
4 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Abi Kremer
Course code:
Q00014703
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
0 places remaining
Status:
Fee range
Free to £27.75

Craft: Diorama, Pop-Ups and Fun Folds (online)

Come and join our enthusiastic tutor and a group of likeminded crafters as we immerse ourselves into the world of paper-crafting and greeting card making. This engaging course will focus on transforming flat pieces of card and paper into captivating 3 dimensional scenes and pop-up surprises. On this course we will discuss dioramas in general, we will look at suitable themes and the basic materials and tools needed. We will also create simple pop-up mechanisms to surprise and delight our recipients. Craft in general is known to have a positive effect on the mental health of those that do it, and card-making is fun, productive and very rewarding: you create lovely, personalised cards for the special people in your life. Boost your confidence and build your skills as we experiment with some new designs and techniques. This course is suitable for those with some experience of card making and a well-stocked craft room.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 28/06/2024 -
Fri 19/07/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
4 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Tracey Broomfield
Course code:
Q00015499
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £37.00

Art Practical: Beginners' - Art for ESOL

This Art for ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course is a 4-week watercolour painting course for anyone wanting to learn or improve their painting skills. You will learn how to draw and paint within a group of like-minded people. Guidance and support are offered throughout the course from our talented tutor, to develop your artistic skills. You will also have the opportunity to connect with and support others in a friendly classroom environment and improve your English conversational skills. No previous skills in watercolours are needed to join this group.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 28/06/2024 -
Fri 12/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
3 sessions
Location:
Victoria Park The Green House
Victoria Park
Anglesea Road
Portsmouth
PO1 3HJ
Tutor:
Janice Parfoot
Course code:
Q00014023
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
6 places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £25.20