Painting

Painting blocks at Art Frosty Birch last six weeks and meet once weekly. Each block focuses on a single problem: tonal still life, limited-palette colour, or large-scale acrylic studies. Homework is optional but encouraged; the studio provides storage for works in progress.

Materials lists arrive by email before the first session. We prefer student-grade paints that still hold pigment honestly; brand snobbery is discouraged. Brushes are shared only when sterilised between users; most painters bring a personal set after week one.

Critiques close every third session. Speakers describe what they intended, peers ask clarifying questions, and instructors offer one concrete next experiment. The tone stays archival — museum white walls, quiet voices, no performative praise.

Private mentoring slots exist for painters preparing a portfolio or a personal series. These are booked separately from group blocks and include written notes after each meeting.

Between blocks we open short critique clinics for members who need eyes on a single painting. Bring one finished work and one work in progress. Notes are written, not only spoken, so you can revisit decisions after the session ends.