The Village Art Classes runs adult art classes for people aged 13 and over, in all abilities, from complete beginners to people who want to refine their skills. We hear the Howick classes have moved to St Andrew's Presbyterian Church hall at 11 Vincent Street. The classes cover basic drawing and sketching, including faces, figures and perspective, colour theory, brush strokes, watercolour, acrylic painting and mixing watercolours. There are one-day workshops of three to five hours, covering subjects such as alcohol inks, portraiture, mixed media and watercolour pencils, with all equipment provided. Five-week modules run in sketching and drawing, watercolour and acrylics. A private workshop for a group of friends can be booked on request. The studio also shows a curated collection of work by its students.
The tutors give face-to-face guidance, step by step, and the website says the classes are designed to suit a wide range of abilities. The studio says art builds confidence, reduces stress and anxiety, and helps with problem-solving. For a Howick or east Auckland adult who wants to try a medium for the first time, or to develop skills they already have, the classes offer a clear structure from beginner to more advanced work.