Whether it’s to unlock a new creative talent, to socialise, or simply to unwind, art classes are a fantastic way to get out of comfort zones, while finding new ways for self-expression. We’ve put together a list of various creative lessons happening in the city across different mediums. With some for adults and some for children, explore what’s on offer to add a splash of colour to the week.

Art classes for creative enthusiasts:

Clay Hands

Looking for a space to explore the world of pottery? Clay Hands offers a range of classes for all levels of skill. This women-run studio nurtures a supportive environment to encourage students to unlock new passions and talents.

Learn the beauty of ceramics with classes that vary from hand building, to wheel work. There is something for everybody: whether it’s once-off workshops to test it out, or regular classes for continuous skills development.

The studio is located in 196 Victoria: a creative hub in Woodstock. This historic building contains an outdoor courtyard with an impressive view of Devil’s Peak, offering a quiet retreat just off from the busy suburb’s bustling roads.

Cost: Dependent on class type. For more information, visit its website here | Student discounts available

When: Varying | Classes are conducted through the year which is split into four terms
Where: Clay Hands Studio, 196 Victoria Road, Woodstock, Cape Town

Cape Town Life Drawing

Join a group of creative individuals to unwind and build skills at life drawing classes every second Wednesday evening with renowned South African artist Tiffany Onderstall.

These guided classes are available to all, and not just ‘the experts’: make new friends, meditate through silent drawing, or refine drawing skills and talent with these fun evening classes. It is a great way to try something new, get out of comfort zones, or simply do something enjoyable as a nice break.

Living up to its name as a creative hub, 196 Victoria is again the location for these art classes to take place. To book, send instructor Tiffany Onderstall a message via Instagram DM.

Cost: R160 per person | R50 cancellation fee

When: Every second Wednesday evening, 7pm to 9pm
Where: Cape Town Life Drawing, 196 Victoria Road, Woodstock, Cape Town

Peter Clarke Art Centre

The Peter Clarke Art Centre is situated in Newlands, and offers classes for both children and adults throughout the day.

Adult art lovers have some incredible options when looking for a class that is the right fit: from the ABC’s of painting & drawing, to Botanical drawing classes, to art therapy sessions, to adult watercolour classes. These lessons are taught by independent teachers who use the amazing facilities of the space to conduct their lessons.

Looking for something to keep the kids busy in the afternoons after school? Peter Clarke Art Centre offers extra-mural classes to students from Grade 1 to 12. Weekly classes are on offer every afternoon during the school week, as well as on Saturdays.

Cost: Varying | For more information, visit its website here

When: Various times dependant on class type
Where: Peter Clarke Art Centre, Vredenhof, Keurboom Road, Newlands, Cape Town

Ruth Prowse School of Art

Ruth Prowse is a renowned art school which offers a range of exciting programmes, long-term and short-term courses for different levels of skills.

Founded in 1970 by artist Erik Laubscher, this inclusive school space offers educational resources to develop new artistic skills and spark new passions for anyone.

From full-time Diplomas to an Outreach skills program, Ruth Prowse School of Art offers community-conscious art education opportunities. Nestled in the heart of the artsy neighbourhood of Woodstock, prospective students are spoilt for choice with class options available here.

Cost: For more information on individual course pricing and what’s on offer, visit its website here

When: Throughout the calendar and academic year
Where: Ruth Prowse School of Art, Elson Road, 5 Birkdale Avenue, Woodstock, Cape Town

Art Classes at Montebello Design Centre

Join passionate artist and teacher Sue Kaplan on a journey to unlock inner creative voices. Nestled under the breath-taking canopy of trees at Montebello Design Centre, these art classes offer the perfect escape from the craziness of the work week.

These classes help to unlock techniques that can be used for powerful methods of personal expression. By experimenting with different mediums, students are able to build their relationships with various materials, and discover which ones move them.

In-person classes allow adult students to connect with each other, and share coffee or a glass of wine while engaging with lessons side-by-side. If location or timing is an issue, Kaplan also offers online classes, where these methods of creative self-discovery can be conducted remotely from anywhere.

Cost: Rates vary depending on class type | For more information, please contact here

When: In-person classes are Wednesday evenings, 6pm to 8.30pm
Where: Montebello Design Centre, 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town

Artjamming

Artjamming offers a less structured approach to learning about painting. Through a focus on play and freedom, children and adults alike can enjoy a low-pressure setting to explore colour, paint, and creativity.

Experiences include access to premium paints, drawing materials, on varying canvas sizes. Then, its a matter of letting go and making something beautiful.

Trained art professionals are always nearby to offer advice and support if needed. Artjamming is available for a fun day with the family, and it can also be booked for various events ranging from corporate to children’s birthday parties.

Artjamming has two locations in Cape Town: the V&A Waterfront, and Somerset West. Walk-ins are available, but booking is encouraged to secure a desired spot.

Cost: Prices per individual vary depending on canvas size | See full price list here

When: V&A Waterfront location, Mon to Sun, 9am to 6pm | Somerset West location, Mon to Sun, 9am to 5pm
Where: Artjamming V&A Waterfront, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town | Artjamming Somerset West, Lourensford Wine Estate, Lourensford Road, Somerset West

See more art experiences and events in Cape Town here