Course details
Enjoy learning about the possibilities of coldwax painting, a technique for adding texture and depth to your work.

Are you’re looking to learn a new approach to animate your painting? In this webinar, artist Laura Menzies will reveal the secrets of coldwax painting. Taking you through materials and techniques. If you’re hooked by the end of this session you can really get to grips with it on a longer course later in the year. We will provide a materials list if you would like to dive in during the session. It’s not too complex, the main specialist material being a pot of cold wax medium.
The technique enables you to build up layers in your painting, embracing happy accidents and capturing depth. Laura takes you through how to mix oil paints and cold wax medium, how to prepare your pallette and what tools can be used to create marks and texture. Learn how to create a range of marks and textures, approaches for incising, exposing and scraping away layers. Touching on colour, explore how to use this versatile medium to add luminosity and depth to your paintings.
By the end of this session, you will have an exciting new way of working with oils to help you create dynamic and striking paintings.



What will I learn?
- How to use coldwax painting to add luminosity, texture and depth to your paintings.
- Learn to work more intuitively and embrace accidents.
- Which tools and mediums to use, and how to set up your space.
- Building up and working back layers.
- An abstract and playful way of working.
Who would this course suit?
This course is suitable for anyone interested in learning a new technique in painting. Although some experience of painting would be helpful, it is not essential. Ideal if you are looking to work more intuitively and embrace happy accidents!
What to Bring
You will need a selection of oil paints, brushes and either Arches oil paper or any other oil paper. The main specialist equipment will be a tub of cold wax medium and 2-3 pots of pigment. Both can be ordered from Jacksons Art.
You will need access to the internet and ideally a PC or laptop or a tablet with audio. Phones are not really suitable to watch a webinar on as the presenter will be hard to see when they share their screen with you.
How does an online session work?
Once you have booked you will be able to watch on demand immediately.
You can pause, rewind and watch again as often as you like until the session expires 60 days after purchase
You will also be invited to join our Facebook Alumni group so you can share your discoveries with our community of fellow students from around the world.
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What our students say
I cant wait to buy some cold wax and get started.
The camera views worked well so that you could see what Laura was doing. It was very interesting, I love Laura’s work and I look forward to trying this process and hopefully putting my own spin on it.
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.
Online Art Courses
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.
Can I learn painting online from home?
Yes. Our online painting courses allow you to learn from professional artists wherever you are. You can pause demonstrations, revisit lessons and work through practical exercises in your own time.
Are online art courses suitable for beginners?
Many of our online art courses are suitable for beginners. Course descriptions explain the recommended level, materials and experience so that you can choose a course that feels manageable and relevant to your interests.
How do online art courses work?
Once you have purchased an online course, you can access it through your account and work through the video tuition and supporting resources at a time that suits you. Access periods vary from 60 – 180 days, just check the individual course page before booking.
For live webinars, once you book a place, we will share a link with you in advance so you can join us at the relevant start time – this is typically via Zoom. A recording of the webinar will be shared with you after the webinar so you can re-watch in your own time.
Do you offer online art courses?
Yes. We have more than 90 online art courses covering painting, drawing, colour, landscape, abstraction, mixed media and other creative subjects. The courses are taught by practising artists and can be followed from home at your own pace.
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.
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.
