A 6-week beginners acrylic & mixed media experience · Leeds
From blank canvas to gallery wall
For anyone who dreams of painting. Go from a completely blank canvas to your own gallery exhibition in 6 weeks. No prior experience needed.
The invitation
Designed for the beginner who wants to fall in love with painting
We know what it’s like to carry a longing to create, but to feel held back by doubt, a lack of time, or the fear that you simply don’t have the “natural talent.” The truth is, creativity isn’t something rare. It’s a process. And you don’t need a lifetime of training to experience the profound joy of seeing your own vision come to life on a canvas.
From Blank Canvas to Gallery Wall is designed to strip away the intimidation and take you step-by-step through the creative process.
In each weekly session, you will master a foundational skill that builds confidence, helping you unlock your unique artistic identity. By the end of the 6 weeks, you won’t just have learned to paint, you will have created a definitive final work.
The exhibition evening
Your work on a gallery wall.
The course culminates in a private exhibition evening. Friends and family are invited. Your painting hangs alongside your cohort’s work in a real gallery space.
To celebrate your achievement, you’ll invite your friends and family to share in the experience, celebrate your growth, and enjoy the unforgettable moment of seeing your work professionally hung on a gallery wall.
From a past student
Just completed it, and it was so worth it! I’ve gained so much confidence through the course, and I’ve been really pleased with everything I’ve created. I 100% recommend it for anyone who’s interested in learning to paint or growing their skills
Harriet · Beginners Painting CourseWhat's included
Everything you need to go from student to exhibiting artist.
12 hours of dedicated, in-person tutoring
Tailored feedback, real-time corrections, and personalised guidance directly at your easel.
5 students maximum
A small class means everyone gets personalised guidance and support, so we can overcome any challenges and build confidence.
A new technique each week
Remove the fear of starting and uncover the joy of painting.
The artist’s kit
All materials necessary are included. Nothing extra to source or buy. Just show up.
Exhibit your final work
Classes take place in our central Leeds gallery, 3 minutes’ walk from Leeds station. The six weeks culminate in an exhibition to invite friends to and celebrate the progress made.
Unlimited access to our drawing & painting club
Join us for up to 48 extra hours of practice and fun over the course.
UK Art Spotlight
Our mission.
The UK Art Spotlight mission is to promote emerging artists and the rich traditions of British art. Our central Leeds gallery hosts Artist talks, Exhibitions and workshops.
The curriculum
Build your confidence step by step
Each session introduces a new principle so you never feel lost and are constantly improving.
1. Break the rules
Oil pastels & expressive abstract. Let go of perfection. Explore oil pastels and expressive abstract painting — free, instinctive, and liberating. This first session is about silencing your inner critic and discovering how good it feels to simply create.
2. Bold florals
Introduction to acrylics. Your first encounter with acrylics. Learn to mix vibrant colours, handle a brush with confidence, and create a modern floral artwork that’s loose, bold, and full of life.
3. Texture & palette knife
Building depth & energy. Put down the brush and pick up the palette knife. Learn to build rich texture, dramatic peaks, and visceral energy in your work. This is where painting becomes truly tactile.
4. Paint your story
Photo to canvas. Turn a personal photograph or memory into a meaningful painting. This is where technique meets emotion — your final pieces will carry something deeper than just skill.
5. Create your gallery piece
The final artwork begins. Begin your exhibition piece. Bringing together everything learned across the course — composition, colour, texture, meaning — into one considered, personal work.
6. Finish & exhibit
Completion & gallery exhibition. Complete your painting and take part in a group gallery exhibition evening. Friends and family are invited.
Nothing extra to buy. Just show up.
| Everything included | Value |
|---|---|
| 12 hours of dedicated studio instruction | £350 |
| Complete premium artist kit | £95 |
| Private gallery opening night | £150 |
| Unlimited access to drawing & painting club | £240 |
| Total value | |
| Full access | £470 |
Bonus free gift
Your artist’s kit: a premium gift set with everything you need to continue your practice outside of the studio.
From the studio
Five stars on Google.
“Ghazal, who runs the studio, is so lovely, and I’ve enjoyed every painting and drawing session I’ve had at the studio, whether it’s been guided or independent. She’s a fantastic artist and a wonderful teacher, and I really recommend going to any sessions you can”
Google review
“Everything's great here. From the very first minute, you feel like you're in a space dedicated to art. Thank you.”
Google review
Check availability
Go from beginner to your first exhibit in six weeks!
Choose your start date
- Mon 2 NovMonday afternoon
- Tue 3 NovTuesday evening
- Sat 7 NovSaturday morning
New dates coming soon.
Join the waiting list and let us know your availability - We will contact you when a class is released.
Availability found
Your ticket £470 Secure checkout
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Frequently asked questions
No matching questions.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes, you can pay in instalments via Klarna.
To do so follow these steps;
- Select your date and reserve your ticket above.
- Proceed to the checkout page (where payment details are taken).
- Enter your contact details and proceed to the next screen.
- Select Klarna in the payment methods section
- You will be redirect to Klarna's website to complete the purchase.
If you require any help please don't hesitate to contact us : https://www.ukartspotlight.org/contact
What if I cannot paint?
Feeling like you cannot paint is very normal and, of course, nobody is born knowing how to paint. Over six weeks the course will give you the fundamental techniques to be able to confidently paint. By the end you will enjoy painting, know how to continue your development as an artist and know how to find your own voice.
I am confident painting, is this course for me?
Absolutely, if you already have confidence when it comes to making art work this course will give you the structure to take your practice to the next level. Each week will support you in discovering your artistic voice and by the final exhibition you will have developed your artistic personality more.
All that said, returning to the fundamentals never hurts either.
Am I too old to learn to paint?
In short, no! At any age the brain is able to learn new things and infact, learning new things improves brain health. The small class size means that each step of the way you will be given personal support, ensuring that you are able to build confidence and enjoy the processes.
What is the final exhibition?
The final exhibition is a private event where your final piece (and other works if you like) can be hung on our gallery walls. This is provides incredible motivation and focus, granting a real sense of purpose while you practice.
For many the thought of exhibiting can be nerve wracking. Rest assured that each step of the way you will be supported by a kind and considerate community.
Where does the course take place?
The course takes place in our central gallery, 3 minutes' walk from Leeds train station.
Address
Unit 5, Aire Street Workshops
Aire Street, Leeds LS1 4HT
What is the free access to drawing & painting club?
As well as the 12 hours of tutored teaching time you will also be able to attend any of our weekly drawing and painting clubs. These are an excellent opportunity to drop by and practice in a fun social environment.
Do I need any materials?
No, all materials are included. You will receive a welcome gift that contains everything you need to complete the course.
What if I can’t make a class?
On the rare occasion that students have something happen in life that means they can’t make a class, we’re always happy to work with them to reschedule their session to another time, or find a solution so that they get everything they should from the course.
The October 2026 exhibition
Our students, beside their work.
