Art Courses Birmingham
Welcome to Art Courses Birmingham, where you can find quality classes in oil painting, drawing and painting techniques, and 1-to-1 tuition in various mediums.
Birmingham needs more outlets for the nurturing of drawing and painting, so I decided to create that very thing by setting up these friendly, fun, yet focused art courses in the heart of Birmingham city centre.
The aim is to create more opportunity for those people who want to be creative, but aren’t sure where to find it. If you desire to paint, draw, or learn to use oils, in a relaxed and fun environment, then look no further than here!
“Creativity takes courage”- Henri Matisse
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I choose a class or workshop?
Easy! Just go to the 'Book an Art Class' section of the website and choose between the two types of course on offer and which day and time suits you best. It's a clear, step-by-step process from there.
I’m a first-time art student ― what class should I take?
That all depends on what kind of materials you want to use. The Drawing and Painting Techniques course will introduce you to a number of different materials and approaches, which will include pencil, charcoal, pastel, watercolour, acrylic, ink, and mixed media. You can go at your own pace and it is generally assumed that you are a beginner.
Whereas the Intro to Oil painting class focuses exclusively on painting with this beautiful medium, it is also certainly suitable for beginners as well.
Whereas the Intro to Oil painting class focuses exclusively on painting with this beautiful medium, it is also certainly suitable for beginners as well.
Is there a break during the class?
Although I often begin a class with a demonstration, especially if I'm introducing a new technique, students are free to make a hot drink at any time. There are no specific breaks, just go and help yourself!
How do I register?
You can register by going to the 'Book an Art Class' section of the website, choosing which course suits you best, and following the step-by-step instructions all the way through to payment. You will receive a confirmation email after you have booked.
Are materials included in tuition prices?
Indeed they are. I supply almost all the art materials. The only thing I ask students to bring in for the 'Drawing and Painting Techniques' class is an A3 drawing/painting pad.
As for the 'Intro to Oil Painting' course, I supply everything except I ask students to bring in an old rag so as to wipe your brushes while you paint.
As for the 'Intro to Oil Painting' course, I supply everything except I ask students to bring in an old rag so as to wipe your brushes while you paint.
What happens if I miss a class?
Please contact me beforehand if you cannot make a class, then we can try and swap it with a Thursday or Saturday session instead (if there is a space available). Unfortunately, due to demand, any missed classes cannot be carried over into a new semester.
Where will the classes be held?
The classes are held at St Paul's Church, St Paul's Square, in the Jewellery Quarter. The sessions have the added bonus of a beautiful stained glass window backdrop for your viewing pleasure, in a beautiful building that dates back to the 18th Century.
How long are the courses?
The 'Intro to Oil Painting' course runs for 10 weeks consecutively.
The Drawing and Painting Techniques course, in its entirety, will run for 12 weeks, although students can decide whether to book for 4, 8, or 12 weeks.
The Drawing and Painting Techniques course, in its entirety, will run for 12 weeks, although students can decide whether to book for 4, 8, or 12 weeks.
Is there Parking?
There is parking around the building itself which is free from 7.30pm onwards, £3 per hour before. There is also a carpark at Snow Hill Station and Ludgate Hill which is a 3 minute walk away.
Once I have completed the course can I book again?
Students often book on the courses again, and are of course most welcome to do so. Each semester follows a similar structure, but I often introduce new techniques and exercises.
How is each class structured?
I usually begin a session with a demonstration of the new technique I will be introducing that day, followed by a warm up exercise for the students. Then students can explore the theme we are working on at their own pace.
I always provide plenty of feedback and individual tuition if needed.
I always provide plenty of feedback and individual tuition if needed.
Art Courses Birmingham Testimonials
I wanted to draw and paint all my life, particularly as this was not part of school in India at the time! So I waited until I retired and joined Peter’s class. I have had the opportunity to try different mediums and techniques. I even dared to draw in a museum setting with Peter’s encouragement. I have enjoyed learning and continue to do so because the atmosphere in the class is very informal and relaxed. I never thought I would be able to draw and paint but with Peter’s help, I am thoroughly enjoying it. Peter is a passionate, interested teacher
Art is a challenge, a pleasure and a struggle. It is also rewarding and a creative escape so a wonderful antidote to stress. Since joining Peter’s ‘Painting for Pleasure’ group in 2015 I have experienced all of the above. But above all, my knowledge and skills in pursuit of progress have been nurtured, nudged, directed and guided by the most skilful approach and ‘light touch’ of Peters’ tutorledge. He invites you to join in his passion and delight of colour and ‘mark making’ whilst exploring art through the ages, both classical and contemporary styles, but above all through the sheer pleasure of ‘having a go’! The atmosphere Peter creates is supportive and inclusive of all abilities. He knows how to guide, lead, and deliver what can be a challenging subject and is able to do this with skill, humour, experience and passion. All the ingredients, in my opinion, of a much valued teacher
I initially contacted Peter to have one to one painting lessons which were absolutely great and I learnt so much. He then told me about the Saturday painting classes he runs in St Paul’s Church and I just had to check it out! From my first visit till today I am so amazed by the space in which we get to paint. The church itself is such an inspiration. Peter allows us through his own demos and guidance to try out new styles of paintings. Each week is a different style and I look forward to having a go (not always feeling confident to start but as there are other painters in the same position we all have a good time trying it out!) There are weeks when I just want to do my own painting and Peter has given me tips on how to do that. So the classes are what you make them too! I absolutely love my Saturday painting class and highly recommended it to anyone wanting to paint, whether it be for the first time or someone who feels like they don’t have the time or space at home. It’s given me back my love of painting. I’ve now got the time and space to do it and have met some great people to paint with. Thanks Peter!