1. Why are potential students required to fill out a questionnaire?

A. We pride ourselves in taking a personal interest in all our applicants and the questionnaire helps us do this. We can better cater to the students’ needs if we know their goals and aspirations. By filling out the questionnaire before classes start allows us to fully focus or creativity in studio.

2. Why do potential students need to book and pay in advance?

A. In most classes there is a maximum number of only six students. Payment secures a position in the class.

1. Why is there such a cancellation fee?

A. Cancellation fees are now a common practice because service providers such as ourselves may find it difficult to fill that seat at short notice.

1. I have not studied since I was at school and I feel a little nervous. Will I be the only one to be anxious?

A. This is a normal reaction and most people feel the same way- until about lunchtime of the first day! There will be only five other students to meet and they are there for the same reasons as you- so there is a common interest already. Remember- it is a non-competitive environment and there are no exams.

1. If I enrol in several of the courses will I receive a further discount?

A. Yes you will.

1. Are there pensioner or student rates available?

A. In a word, no. The fee structure is very low in comparison to similar private tuition across Tasmania. Your tutor is a Master Painter with considerable international experience and acclaim. Furthermore he has professional qualifications in teaching and painting and has over 30 years of teaching in art schools and universities in Australia and overseas.

1. I do not have a large amount of disposable income and I cannot afford to attend a long course…can I attend a few hours now and then?

A. Yes, but it depends on availability. This is why booking in advance is so important.

1. I am not sure if I am talented enough to attend and art school. Should I apply simply because I like being creative?

A. The beauty of this private art school is that there are no scary entry interviews. Our mission is to help people realise their potential in a relaxed environment. Learning should not be a competition sport- and students’ works are never compared. Critiques are designed to be non-threatening and supportive. If your desire is to be creative- regardless of current ability then this is a course for you.

1. What are the facilities like?

A he studio is not large but it is functional. There is plenty of natural light, the beach is a just a short stroll away- perfect for outdoor painting. Studio equipment is either brand new or in very good condition.

1. Are the courses ATQF accredited?

A. No they are not. A common complaint about accredited government funded art schools is that the compliance paperwork for teaching staff and students is overwhelming. Once again- our mission is to help people self-express in a relaxed atmosphere.

1. I have no set artistic goals…is that OK?

A. Yes it is- but it means that some time will have to be devoted to discussion with you in class to identify what you want to paint. It is important to have a passion for a place or style of painting as a starting point for your work. You will be required to work from a large, clear photograph- (and observe copyright laws and moral rights) that you chose. It is important to have a connection with the scene that you paint.

1. I cannot draw or paint something from my head. Is that a problem?

A. Very very few people can do this- and it is not required anyway. Initially you will copy from your photo and make changes- put something in and take something out. As time goes on and you learn about composition you will take better photographs to work from. There is no need to work from your head…that’s why we have two eyes!

1. Will we all be painting the same picture?

A n this art school there is no chance you will become a clone. As everyone will be working from their own photos they will create unique paintings in a natural personal style. You will be encouraged to find the spontaneous painter within.

1. What materials will I need to buy?

A hen you enrol and pay you will receive a small information pack which will tell you what materials you will need as well as tell you about such things as parking, location of the toilet and other useful pieces of information. Generally however you will need to buy a set of paints for when you work at home. The colours you pick will depend on the photograph you work from. The colours you will use will be discussed at the first class. If finances are limited buy a wide range of colours. You will need a canvas but the shape will need to be the same as your photograph. In class time, palettes, brushes and paints will be provided. You may bring your own colours to the studio work with.

1. Where is the studio located?

A he studio is located at the back of the property of 6 Pandanus Place Devonport.

1. What would take place on a typical day?

A. Most students are keen for a critique at the start of a session. This is not only because they are excited about what they have created but it also gives valuable feedback to help them work on their painting during the session. The critique is normally followed by a lecture and demonstration to do with a common aspect over everyone’s painting such as a particular technique or about composition. Students beaver away at their paintings and the tutor gives then advice as he walks around. Breaks can be taken at any time but there are defined morning, lunch and afternoon breaks. Students can make themselves an espresso or cappuccino, tea or heat up some food in the microwave. On a sunny day lunch may be enjoyed on the deck or out in the reserve where they can socialise or relax. Typically a art video will be shown during the lunch break- and followed by a discussion. Often at the end of the day a student often asks for feedback from the group. Demonstrations and Questions/Answer sessions may take place at any time during the day. Students take their work home.

1. Are there any other activities that take place in the studio during the week?

A. Yes there are. The studio is a very busy place. On selected Wednesday nights there is a Critique/Networking group of ex-students. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays Wayne Edwards produces works for overseas exhibitions.

1. The brochure says students can borrow an easel – how can I take advantage of this service?

A. Students enrolled in full courses are eligible for the periods of the course borrow a portable timber easel. Students enrolled in short courses can hire the same type of easel for a moderate amount. A refundable $50 deposit is required.