Don't let nerves stop you joining an art class

Have you ever thought about joining an art class but felt a little nervous about what to expect or whether it's right for you? You are certainly not alone, which is why I've created this little guide to explain exactly what to expect from our classes.

Perhaps you’ve imagined walking into a room full of confident artists who already know exactly what they’re doing. Or maybe you’re worried that your drawing skills aren’t good enough, or that everyone else will be creating a masterpiece while you’re still wondering which brush to pick up...

I know this because I've been there. We all started somewhere and we can relate to the nerves because we've felt them ourselves. Imagine how nervous I felt deciding to change career in my 40s and enrolling onto a degree in art!

But as nerve-wrecking as that was it was also one of the best experiences I've had in my life. And I think it's that experience that has made me all the more passionate about creating friendly and supportive environments for aspiring artists. I work really hard to ensure that our classes are designed to be welcoming, supportive and, most importantly, enjoyable. Whether you’re trying something completely new or returning to art after years away, there’s something wonderfully liberating about simply giving yourself permission to create.

You Can Start Exactly Where You Are

One of the things I love most about teaching art is seeing the variety of people who walk through our doors. Some students haven't touched a paintbrush since school, others have dabbled throughout the years, some have been closet artists their whole lives. Wherever you are on your journey is completely fine.

You don't need to arrive knowing anything, that's what learning is for. Our classes give you the opportunity to develop your skills gradually, with guidance along the way.

You'll Learn New Skills

An art class isn't simply about sitting down and copying a picture, it's about understanding how and why things work. Depending on the class, you might explore colour mixing, composition, tone, perspective, brush techniques, mark-making or different approaches to creating texture.

You'll be shown techniques and given practical advice that you can take into your future artwork.

And because everyone learns differently, you can ask questions, experiment and work at a pace that feels totally comfortable for you.

There’s Plenty of Room to Experiment

Here's something every artist eventually discovers, things don't always go according to plan!

A colour might turn out differently than expected. A brushstroke might land somewhere you didn't intend. A painting might take an unexpected direction. None of that is failure, it's simply part of creating art. In fact, some of the most interesting creative discoveries happen when you stop trying to make everything perfect and allow yourself to experiment and for your art to unfold.

Our classes are a place where you can try something new without worrying about getting everything right.

You’ll Build Confidence

Learning a creative skill can be surprisingly empowering. At the beginning of a class, you might look at a blank canvas and wonder where to start. Then, gradually, you make the first move, mix the colours, and start to see something unfold. Then eventually you look at what you've created and realise "I did that!"

We see this all the time and that feeling is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching art. The confidence you gain from exploring your creativity, facing challenges, and learning new skills is not to be underestimated.

It's Also About the People

I firmly believe that an art class isn't only about the artwork, it's also about the experience of creating alongside other people. There’s a real energy about being in a room where everyone is focused on creating something. Conversations flow naturally, ideas are shared and people encourage one another.

For many people, a regular art class becomes an important part of their week, offering time away from work, responsibilities and the constant noise of everyday life.

A Chance to Slow Down

Between work, family, emails, errands and endless life admin, finding time to simply focus on yourself can feel like a luxury but art can provide that opportunity.

For a couple of hours, your attention can shift towards colour, shape, texture and the movement of your brush across the canvas. You get to move your attention away from thinking and allow a deeper, more soul fuelled consciousness emerge. And there's something rather wonderful about that.

You Don't Have to Create a Masterpiece

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that your first painting doesn't need to be perfect, and your tenth doesn't either! Art is a journey of exploration, and every piece you create teaches you something. Sometimes you'll love what you've made, sometimes you wont be as sure and think "Well... that didn't quite go according to plan!" 

The thing is that both experiences are valuable, the goal isn't perfection, it's about enjoying the process and embracing all the benefits that go hand in hand with the creative experience.

So, What Is It Really Like to Have an Art Class With Us?

It's learning new skills.

It's discovering your creative side.

It's making mistakes, not giving up, and figuring things out.

It's having someone there to guide and encourage you.

It's meeting other creative people.

It's taking some time for yourself.

And, of course, it's making art.

Whether you've always dreamed of learning to paint, or you're simply looking for something new to try, you don't need to wait until you're "good enough" to begin.

So pick up the brush, make that first mark and see where it takes you.

Your next creative adventure is waiting for you in the studio. 🎨

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Kate Hughes Creative is a Hampshire based art school, gallery and creative hub based in the picturesque village of Selborne. Offering a range of creative classes from mixed media painting and gelli plate printing, thought to botanical relief casting and cyanotype, there is a class to suit all ages, experience levels and interests.