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Course intent

Learn how to paint in acrylic paint by starting at the very beginning. Gain confidence whilst exploring a variety of subjects, painting both from life and photographic references. With hands-on tuition, tutor demonstrations and constructive feedback you will become more skilled and find what interests and inspires you.

What will I learn?

You will learn:

Design Techniques: discover how to use tone, colour, composition, and perspective to create dynamic focal points in your paintings. Understand how these elements interact to enhance your artwork’s visual impact.

Material Knowledge: Gain a solid understanding of acrylic paints, including colour mixing and tonal values. Learn how to choose and use various tools and materials, including brushes, to achieve different textures and effects.

Craftsmanship: Discover your personal style and creative voice through a series of guided exercises and experimentation. Explore the work of other artists to inspire and deepen your understanding of artistic practices.

Production Process: Learn essential acrylic painting techniques and the importance of drawing within painting. Learn how to sketch outlines and incorporate drawing skills into your painting process for greater accuracy and depth.

Workshop Practice: Understand the importance of maintaining a clean, organized studio. Learn how to clean up safely and dispose of materials in an environmentally responsible way, ensuring a safe and sustainable workspace.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

Stage 1 - This stage is for learners who are new to their chosen subject area. With the focus on introducing individuals to basic materials, tools, and techniques, and to inspire confidence in creative expression.

As our courses are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English or any factors which may impact your ability to access this course.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

Stage 1 - This stage is for learners who are new to their chosen subject area. With the focus on introducing individuals to basic materials, tools, and techniques, and to inspire confidence in creative expression.

As our courses are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English or any factors which may impact your ability to access this course.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

YOU NEED TO BRING: ● An apron and suitable clothing for painting spills. ● Notebook or sketchbook and pencil ● A small assortment of flat and round brushes. ● A palette. This needs to be a flat surface (preferably without dipped sections) that measures around 20 x 30cm minimum. Glass, ceramic, enamelled metal, or plastic palettes can be used. We do not recommend the use of Plexiglass or other types of acrylic sheeting, as acrylic paints and mediums can adhere permanently. ● A palette knife ● A3 pad of acrylic painting paper (250gsm or higher) ● Kitchen roll or old cotton rags to clean your brushes ● A clean, empty, leak-proof glass jam jar with a lid to store and transport paint water in. ● Masking tape

Your tutor will advise where to buy further materials that may arise as needed, specific to your individual projects.

For some classes, you will be asked to bring in objects or photographs to act as a reference for your paintings. A camera phone is useful for photographing your still life setups so that you can continue your work at home.

What can I do when I finish the course?

You can continue your journey learning about acrylic painting with us by enrolling on Acrylic Painting - Stage 1 for the whole of the academic year 2025-26. You can build your skills during the year by trying Saturday workshops in painting and drawing and try different techniques and styles. In September 2026, you can move to Acrylic Painting - Stage 2

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

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