We are excited to introduce our newly launched Life Drawing & Painting classes, designed for artists seeking serious classical training in observational drawing and figurative painting. These professionally tutored, small-group sessions build strong academic foundations through working directly from the live model.

Martin Drexler is an internationally exhibited figurative artist and senior art educator with over 30 years of experience in classical drawing and painting. He holds an MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art with classical training at Lavender Hill Studios, London, and has exhibited internationally, including at the Royal West Academy of Art and the University of Pennsylvania. Martin has also served as Head of Visual Arts at The American School in London and Director of Visual Art at Interlochen Arts Academy.

Looking for a meaningful and inspiring creative activity this May half term? Our Kids & Teens Half Term Art Courses offer a focused, hands-on programme where young artists develop real drawing and painting skills in a supportive studio environment — observational drawing and proportion, watercolour, acrylic and mixed media, colour mixing, brush control and composition.

Every student receives a Certificate of Completion, and older students can receive portfolio guidance for GCSE, A-Level and scholarship preparation.

We are delighted to welcome John Bartlett to the teaching team. Born in London and trained at the Royal Academy Schools, following postgraduate studies at Byam Shaw School of Art and a Fine Art degree from Maidstone College of Art, John worked at the National Gallery early in his career before dedicating himself full-time to major art projects.

He is best known for his large-scale painting History Painting (1993–94), now in the Museum of London’s permanent collection, depicting the Poll Tax Riots in Trafalgar Square. John has exhibited widely across the UK, including a major mid-career retrospective at the Guildhall Art Gallery (London Sublime), and brings exceptional academic discipline, museum-level experience and a deep respect for drawing as the foundation of artistic practice.

We are proud to celebrate the beautiful progress of our student Sophie Lawrence, whose recent Dutch flower painting demonstrates outstanding control of colour harmony, layering and observational accuracy.

Inspired by the traditions of 17th-century Flemish still life painting, Sophie carefully built luminous petals through transparent glazing, subtle tonal transitions and disciplined brushwork — achieving depth and realism while keeping the painting fresh and clear. Her work reflects not only technical skill but patience, visual sensitivity and strong compositional judgement.

As friends of the Suited & Booted Centre, we are pleased to share this special evening in support of their important work. From the Heart is a musical theatre cabaret with a touch of Valentine’s magic, on Friday 13 February at 7pm in Covent Garden — three outstanding West End performers celebrating the nation’s most loved musical theatre songs.

The evening raises funds for Suited & Booted, which provides tailored interview clothing and confidence support to people facing barriers to employment.