FAQ’s

Q: I have never painted before – can I still attend the classes?

A: YES, ART101 is as the name suggests – a solid, broad introduction to painting with acrylics. Our classes are perfect for those who have never painted before as the environment is relaxed and informal with a low student/tutor ratio. We understand it can be daunting starting something new and guarantee patience and understanding while you are ‘finding your feet’. 80% of our students were absolute beginners when they joined the studio.

Q: I can’t draw so can I still attend a painting workshop?

A: YES, the classes and workshop cater to all levels – SPECIALIZING in the absolute beginners / very novice artist. The majority of our students had never painted before joining our studio.

Q: How long does it take to complete a painting in weekly classes?

A: Depending on a student’s confidence and chosen style for a particular project, it may take between 3-5 sessions to complete each piece.

Q: What kind of paints do we use in class?

A: The studio uses acrylics and polymers as well as a huge variety of texturing agents. The focus is on contemporary, mixed media compositions that allow you to explore a variety of materials as a good general introduction to painting for enjoyment.

Q: What format do the weekly classes take?

A: Students choose what they want to paint and what styles they would like to learn. The classes are small so they are tailored to every individual student and you will learn different techniques and skills as and when you encounter that stage in your chosen composition. From contemporary abstracts ('wall candy') to landscapes to portraits and almost everything in between - Mel will guide you through from start to finish.

Q: Can I choose what I want to paint in class?

A:  YES, the studio provides books of sample images for you to choose from AND you may bring your own print-outs, magazines and books with styles/subjects that really appeal to you. Mel is always available for help with ideas.

Q: Do I have to book for and commit to a whole term?

A: NO, we understand that not all weeks will be convenient to attend so we ask that students book and pay one week in advance. Please notify us the week before if you will not be attending the following week. We will keep your place for a maximum of two weeks then it will be offered to anyone on the waiting list for that class time.

Q: What happens if I am unable to attend a class I have booked and paid for?

A: Depending on the circumstances, you may have to forfeit your payment. In the event of sickness or injury we will credit your class payment to the following week only.

Q: Do you offer watercolour classes?

A: Not at the moment – however, Mel can show you how to work in inks and acrylic glazes to achieve similar effects to watercolour.

Q. What materials should I bring to a Life Drawing session?

A. Almost anything that you like to draw with! We provide complimentary paper for the warm-up sketches. For those starting out we recommend graphite sticks, 2B/4B/6B/8B pencils and a drawing pad that is at least A3 and ideally, A2 in size. Once you get your confidence you could move on to experimenting with white chalk, pastels, coloured pencils and even ink. ALL materials are available at The Discount Art Warehouse - just ask one of the friendly staff.

Q. What materials should I bring to weekly classes if I have chosen the BYO option?

A.  A range of acrylic paints, brushes and a stretched canvas. Please ask The Discount Art Warehouse staff about our introductory kit. As you progress through  the weeks, Mel will suggest materials that you may require as you complete your project.

Q. Can I bring my own materials to a 1 day workshop?

A. Unfortunately not, this is because part of what is learnt in the workshops is what materials and tools to use to achieve different effects. This means you get to try out many different products before you start building your own kit of  your preferred mediums. The workshops are designed to be hassle-free so you have nothing to worry about before the day.

Q. Do you have drawing/sketching classes?

A. Yes, we have two options: either our monthly Life Drawing session or during our weekly classes where a still life arrangement will remain for two weeks at a time. If you want to expand your skill – we recommend attending both options as this will accelerate your progress.

 
Q. Where is the best place to get my art supplies?

A. As we share a building with The Discount Art Warehouse - you will find a huge range of products on site. With free parking, it is so convenient.