Explore Fine Art Painting Courses in Norfolk
Build Your Painting Skills | Realise Your Art Style | Sell Your Art
At The Art Academy our painting courses are designed to help you find and develop your unique art style.
With the guidance of professional fine artist & course creator Claire Frances Smith, who brings over 40 years of experience to the easel, you'll learn to express your individuality through your artwork and find your own artistic style. Her wealth of knowledge, industry expertise and teaching experience is the heart of the academy and the key to it's success.
-
Artist Development Diploma
If you’ve moved beyond beginner classes but feel unsure how to develop your own style, the Artist Development Diploma provides clear structure and guidance. Through weekly in-person sessions in Norfolk, you’ll strengthen core skills, explore different subjects, and build a body of artwork that feels recognisably yours.
You’ll learn through demonstrations, guided projects and individual feedback, with support to confidently present your work. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a public exhibition and Art Market, giving you real experience of showing and potentially selling your artwork.
-
Painting at Pensthorpe
Join me at my gallery and workshop at Pensthorpe for a four-week painting and drawing course inspired by the wildlife, flowers and scenery around us.
Each course has a different theme and is designed to help you develop your drawing and acrylic/oil painting skills, whatever your current level of experience.
During each session, I’ll lead you through guided drawing instruction and a step-by-step paint-along. You’ll also have time to develop your own work, explore the techniques in your own way and receive individual support from me as you paint.
These courses are suitable for complete beginners, improvers and more experienced artists.
-
Online Step-by-Step Painting Lessons
Learn to paint at home in 7 steps with professional guidance from me.
My collection of online painting tutorials help you to learn to paint in both acrylics and oils from the comfort of your own home.
The video lessons give you access to the same step-by-step demonstrations and supportive teaching style my studio students experience. I guide you through each stage clearly and at your own pace.
If you're a complete beginner picking up a paintbrush for the first time or looking to develop your painting skills, these paint-along videos are designed to build your confidence.
-
We welcome adults of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. We value the life experience and prior learning you bring with you.
-
We understand that starting something new can feel daunting, and that some people carry difficult memories of education. We keep things calm, clear and pressure-free, with flexible pacing and support adapted to you.
-
You can expect clear instruction, reliable support and the kind of honest, encouraging feedback that actually helps. We take our teaching seriously so you can focus on painting.
-
You will leave with practical skills that genuinely enrich your life and wellbeing. And alongside that, you will find a warm, encouraging group of people who are here for exactly the same reasons you are.
Paint with Technical Accuracy & Precision
-
Colour is a powerful tool in art, and our courses delve deep into colour theory and application. Understand how to use colour to create mood, convey messages, and make your paintings resonate with viewers.
-
Master the technical aspects of painting with our comprehensive instruction. We teach you the skills needed to achieve precise and accurate renderings, ensuring that your artistic vision is brought to life with clarity and finesse.
Create Paintings with Emotional Impact
-
Our courses emphasize the importance of painting with feeling. Learn how to infuse your works with genuine emotion, making each piece a true reflection of your inner world.
-
Learn to create paintings that resonate deeply with viewers. Our expert-led courses provide you with techniques and insights to infuse your work with emotional impact, making your art truly captivating.
Build Your Confidence & Career as an Artist
-
Gain the confidence to exhibit your work in galleries & art shows. Our experienced tutor will guide you through the process, from creating a cohesive body of work to preparing for exhibitions.
-
Turn your passion into a profession. Learn the business side of being an artist, including how to market your work, approach galleries, and create opportunities to sell your art. Our academy not only hones your artistic skills but also empowers you to succeed in the art world.
Claire Frances Smith - Founder
“I am privileged to have had the opportunity to teach and guide hundreds of students through The Art Academy over the last 15 years.
I know they have gained confidence in their own creative skills and artwork. They have learned ways to represent their own view of the world as well as understand the business of art.
I have been a professional artist for over 40 years working with galleries, publishers and private clients during that time. In my own work, I aim to cultivate a sense of quiet energy and awe and I am endlessly inspired by the light and atmosphere of the vast Norfolk sky.
I look forward to supporting more emerging artists at The Art Academy to develop fundamental paintings skills that will empower them to discover their inner artist.”
S.M - Member Learner
‘I have found attending the art group and being taught by Claire a most enjoyable and rewarding experience. Claire offers a kind, helpful, encouraging and supportive painting and learning environment. I have found her beautiful paintings and paint along experiences interesting, helpful, motivational and so very beneficial enabling me to gradually build confidence in my own art journey. Thank you Claire.’
FAQs
-
We host our workshops at
Claire Frances Smith Gallery & Workshop
Pensthorpe Natural Park
Fakenham Road
Fakenham
Norfolk
NR21 0LN -
There is FREE parking available on site including accessible parking.
-
Yes, we just teach adults at The Art Academy. The minium age is 18 and there is no maximum age! We are often asked 'Will I be too old?' and the answer is absolutely not! We have taught people of all ages and welcome a wide mix of people. There is no age limit to creativity!
-
If you are unsure which art course is most suitable for your current experience level and goals then please do send us a message here or call us on 07546727380. We will be happy to chat through the options with you and take it from there.