Best In-Person Art Workshops and Courses Across the UK

Here at ArtRabbit, we are huge fans of online learning opportunities. Some skills, however, are best learnt in person – we certainly wouldn't recommend welding whilst on a video call. Our selection of the best in-person art workshops and courses offers the opportunity to learn new creative and technical skills directly from professional artists, makers and designers. Read on to discover the best in-person art workshops and courses across the UK.

In-person learning comes with the added benefit of nurturing local social connections, and a chance to step away from the screen. So, consider this the perfect time to dip your toes into something brand new with a one-off event, or to hone your practice with a term-long course.

In London

Build materials skills at London Sculpture Workshop

London Sculpture Workshop offers a fantastic array of hands-on practical courses, focusing on skills and techniques used by artists and makers. Learn the fundamentals of mould making and casting - from concrete to silicone. Try your hand at wax modelling and wood furniture design. If metal’s your thing, delve into Drawing with Steel or Welding for Artists, or explore hot metal casting with their renowned pewter or bronze casting courses. Day, weekend and evening classes available. Small class sizes, open to all including beginners. More info on ArtRabbit or the London Sculpture Workshop website.

Join Royal Drawing School for their Summer Term

The Royal Drawing School offers over 80 daytime, evening, and online courses each term, taught by a distinguished faculty of practising artists. Courses focus on observational drawing and printmaking, and are open to all levels, from complete beginners to experienced artists. Find out more.

Midweek Makers: evening creative courses at West Dean

Carve out time in the week to unplug, stop scrolling and prioritise yourself with mindful short courses across a host of disciplines at West Dean: London. Find inspiration from expert tutors and learn new techniques and skills at these relaxed evening creative courses in the heart of London's knowledge quarter. Courses range from pattern printing and tapestry weaving on a backstrap loom, to acrylic painting and visible mending. Find out more.

Around the UK

Go analogue with Baltic’s Risograph Printing workshops, Gateshead

Risographs are an increasingly popular printing method for artists and designers, utilising a stencil printing method to build up layers of vibrant colour. They offer a fun & quick way to create a unique set of prints. In this computer free session at Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, learn how the risograph works and create imagery for your own editions. All materials provided, including collage and drawing tools.

Experiment with sound and ceramics at MAKE Southwest, Newton Abbott, Devon

Amongst the excellent array of workshops at MAKE Southwest, our top pick is the Ceramic Record Workshop with Copper Sounds. Join Sound and Silence exhibitors Copper Sounds for a workshop where you will make a 12" record out of clay. This workshop offers an introduction into sound lathes, dubplates and cutting frequencies into clay. Participants will design their own sleeve and cut their own ceramic record.

Create a batik portrait at Mostyn, Llandudno, Wales

Learn the art of contemporary batik in this delightful workshop inspired by the work of exhibiting artist Vanessa da Silva. Join Celia Hume, a contemporary batik artist and learn how to create your very own batik portrait. Experiment with layering and shape to create an image that echoes the portraits of da Silva.

Give your woollens a second life at Tullie’s rag rug workshop, Carlisle

All materials are provided for these two workshops at Tullie. However, you can also bring along your old knitwear to recycle! Inspired by the gallery’s current exhibition Winifred Nicholson: Cambrian Rag Rugs.

→ More exhibitions and events in London, Berlin, New York, and Los Angeles

For more art and travel inspiration, reviews or guides browse through our features, download the ArtRabbit App for iPhone or Android, or subscribe to one of our city-specific newsletters. You can also follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest.