Course details
An introduction to finding ways into creating lively, expressive paintings through intuitive and instinctual responses to the world around you.

It can be hard to find the content for your work or the confidence to put paintbrush to paper or canvas when you don’t really know where to start.
How do we find focus when there are so many possible distractions in our day-to-day life? And how do we be ‘present’ with our art when everything seems to pull us away? Over three days, artist Iona Sanders will explore new ways to connect with your practice and self. See how to be more responsive and intuitive to the things, people and landscapes around you, and learn new ways into image-making. This course encourages you to look at things afresh and to realise that the fragment of a tile, the colour of a flower or the atmosphere of a place can all be used to inspire work.
The aim of the course is to inspire new ways of painting so that you leave the course buoyed up, energetic and enthusiastic going forward. Iona will show you how she starts and develops her own paintings but will encourage you to find your own voice. Come to the class with ideas about the things, landscapes and paintings that inspire you, and leave with the confidence to go on creating art, and to make more space for it in the future. Ideal if you can’t find a way to start your painting practice, or even if you just need a few days with a fresh set of eyes and inspiring space to do so!
There will be some walking and exploring on the mornings of the first and second days, where you are encouraged to record your experience via notes, sketches and photographs. Using this information, as well as your own memory, experiment with various ways forward back in the studio. See what you are drawn to, and what you’re not. Iona is an energetic, inspiring and supportive tutor who will help you to trust your intuition in this process.



Day to day plan
This is a rough indication of what to expect over the course. However sometimes the structure of the days may alter depending on the nature of the group and weather.
Day 1
Following an introduction, head outside and gather ideas through sketches, notes and photographs. See what you are drawn to. In the afternoon, spend time experimenting with colours, mark-making and textures.
Day 2
Re-visiting the same location you visited the previous day, go back with a deeper understanding and knowledge of that place; see how to build a piece from the combination of gathering material, memory, feeling and understanding. In the afternoon, work on several smaller pieces and begin to focus on some finished works, or a series of works.
Day 3
The final day will be a chance to gather everything you’ve learnt and to develop either one, or a series of, paintings. Iona will demonstrate how she works towards finished pieces, guiding you through your own compositions. There will be a chance to share your work with your tutor and peers at the end.
What will I learn?
- Gain inspiration from your everyday surroundings. Learn close observation and how ‘being in the moment’ can help you make more intuitive, abstract work.
- Build confidence in drawing and mark-making.
- Find new ways in to creating expressive and lively paintings.
- Leave buoyed up and energised and confident in various ways to move your painting practice forwards.
- Transform your observations into abstract paintings or figurative paintings.
Who would this course suit?
This course is suitable for anyone. If you are interested in loosening your approach to drawing and painting, as well as finding new ways of capturing the environment around you, this course is for you. Most importantly, this will be a chance to explore and experiment without judgement.
There will be some walking on the morning of the first and second day.
Taught by
What to Bring
Our studios are fully equipped and we provide you with all the materials you need for your course. However, if you have a favourite set of brushes or any specialist materials that you would prefer to use, please bring them with you.
Timings and Breaks
The first day starts at 10am and finishes at 4.30pm, please aim to arrive ten to fifteen minutes before the start time.
All course days after that start at 9.30am and finish at 4pm and there will be an hour for lunch. There are plenty of nearby places to eat and we will serve tea and coffee at break times during the day.
What our students say
Iona is a really enthusiastic tutor and very motivating – even when the session is recorded. I really liked the way her approach provided some broad ways of working and was not prescriptive. It gave plenty of scope for adapting her process to my own style. I came away with some useful ideas for developing composition and a much clearer understanding of the way acrylics can be layered.
I went on a journey over 3 days from feeling that I was someone with all the gear and no idea to being someone who felt like an artist. Miraculous!
Iona is positive and pushes comfort zones in a supportive and caring manner.
Iona was professional, fun, positive and encouraging.
I now feel ready to start playing and experimenting with paint.
FAQs
Art Courses
Do I need any previous art experience?
Not always. We offer courses for all levels, including complete beginners, intermediate students and more experienced artists. You can look for the experience level listed on the individual course page to find the most suitable option for you. If you need any guidance on what course might suit you best, contact on our friendly team on 01736 797180 and they will be able to help.
Art Courses in St Ives
How do I log in to my online account?
To log in to your account, please follow these steps:
- Go to our website: www.schoolofpainting.co.uk
- Click on the ‘Log in’ button (usually found near the top right of the page)
- Enter the email address and you used when booking
- Click “Log in” to access your account
Once logged in, you’ll be able to view your bookings, outstanding payments, online courses and any relevant account information.
If you’ve forgotten your password, simply click ‘Forgot password?’ on the login page and follow the instructions to reset it.
If you have any trouble accessing your account, please email us and we’ll be happy to help.
Do you offer art classes for children and teenagers?
Yes. Our Young Artists Programme includes art workshops for children and teenagers, with sessions designed for different age groups. During the summer, we also run creative workshops for children aged 7-13.
How large are your art classes?
Our studio courses are taught in small groups of around 10 to 12 people, allowing tutors to provide individual guidance alongside group demonstrations and discussions.
What is included in an art course?
Course fees include professional tuition from a practising artist and use of the School’s studio facilities. Materials and equipment are all included in our in person courses, workshops and life drawing sessions – so you can just turn up and get started. Teas and coffees are also provided throughout the day.
Can I attend an art course on my own?
Absolutely. Many students come to St Ives School of Painting independently. Courses offer a welcoming and sociable environment, with plenty of opportunities to meet other people who share an interest in making and learning.
Do you offer beginner painting courses?
Yes. Our programme includes beginner-friendly painting courses covering materials such as oils, acrylics and watercolours. These courses introduce you to essential tools and techniques while giving you plenty of time to practise and explore your own ideas.
How do I choose the right art course?
Start by considering how you would like to work. You may want to learn a particular medium, improve a skill such as drawing or colour mixing, explore a subject such as landscape or still life, or develop a more personal approach. Each course page explains the content, materials, level and teaching approach to help you decide. Our friendly, helpful team are always available to help further.
Please call us on 01736 797180 to discuss your options or email [email protected].
Who teaches your art courses?
Our courses are led by practising artists – including Jill Eisele, Alice Mumford, Iona Sanders and Neil Canning – all with extensive knowledge of their chosen subjects and materials. Each tutor brings their own artistic experience, working methods and approach to teaching, giving students the opportunity to experience a wide range of ideas and techniques.
How do I get my work home?
Tutors have special techniques for transporting oil paintings and for our 3 day courses we will give you a plastic folder with a handle. These are also available to purchase for £3.50 or do bring a portfolio.
Please note: For the course Bigger, Bolder, Braver with Boo Mallinson, we will provide a large A1 size plastic folder for your work but please consider how you will be able to transport the larger canvases home safely before signing up for the course as we will not be able to store large paintings in the studio. On this course you will be painting on a 50cms x 50cms and a 1m x 1m canvas alongside smaller pieces.
For international students we are happy to arrange transportation of your work back home, postal costs will be borne by you.
What times do courses run?
Most of our courses start at 10am and end at 4.30pm on the first day. Subsequent days we start at 9.30am ending at 4pm.
Short workshops start at 10am in the Summer and 9.30am/ 1.30pm during September festival
In Person Courses
What art courses do you offer in St Ives?
We offer a varied programme of art courses in St Ives, including painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media and life drawing. You can choose from one-day workshops, short summer sessions and more immersive three- and four-day studio courses. We also offer longer development courses for those looking to take their practice to the next level.
What do I need to bring?
You don’t need to bring anything with you unless we specify beforehand. All materials, aprons and tools are provided, however some people do like to bring along their favourite set of brushes or sketchbooks.
What do I do for lunch?
Courses allow an hour’s break for lunch and there are numerous places nearby or you are welcome to bring a packed lunch into the studio.
Can I bring my dog?
The studios are busy places with lots of equipment and not suitable for bringing a pet dog. We can accommodate assistance dogs with prior notice so we can make suitable adjustments. If you wish to bring an assistance dog please call 01736 797180 or email [email protected]
Choosing an Art Course
Do you run life drawing classes in St Ives?
Yes. We hold regular life drawing sessions in St Ives, including Thursday evening and Saturday morning classes. These welcoming, tutored sessions are open to a range of experience levels and provide an opportunity to practise drawing from a life model. Our life drawing sessions are held just a 5 minute walk from our studios at The Island Centre.
Do you offer art courses for adults?
Yes. We run art classes and courses for adults throughout the year, from accessible introductory workshops to more intensive courses for people looking to deepen their creative practice.
What types of painting can I learn?
Our courses cover a wide range of approaches, including oil painting, acrylic painting, watercolour, gouache, landscape painting, still life, portraiture and abstraction. We also offer courses exploring colour, composition, mark-making and creative confidence.
