Art Classes- Are they worth it?

Local art classes are advertised in various places, your local library or council website, a flyer in a shop window or through your door, a sponsored ad on social media… but are they worth it?

This blog is going to follow my adventure through taking a local art class and it will focus on the value that I gain from it.

SPOILER: Well chosen art classes are absolutely worth it! I’ve taken this particular course before and learnt so much, my personal skills and techniques improved, so I want to build on that and will chronicle my experiences for you.

Chosen Class: Edinburgh Council’s Art Portrait: Beginner

As many of you that engage with me on social media will know, I struggle with portraiture and so rather than shy away from it I have decided to lean into it and take a class that my local council was advertising.

The council run class is broken down into 10 lessons spread over a few months taking place at a local community centre, the full cost works out at approximately £110 and concessionary and reduced rates are available to those who are eligible.

You do however need to provide your own supplies but these can be relatively cheap if you want them to be.

Supplies:

A3 Cartridge paper pad (and/or sheets)  
 
A3 Sugar/pastel paper sheet – blue/green grey (for pastel drawing)  
 
Tracing paper pad or sheet (if desired but not essential)  
 
Pencils (HB, 2B or 4B)  
 
Charcoal (willow stick)  
 
Soft pastels (Inscribe brand recommend)  
 
Eraser and putty rubber  
 
Pencil sharpener or craft knife  
 
Protective clothing  

To keep your costs to a minimum you can easily get away with: A3 cartridge paper pad, pencils, eraser, sharpener and wear old clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.