Top 10 Tips to Get the Most Out of an Art Class
Date: 5/17/2024
As much as I enjoy messing about, trying new materials and techniques in the safety of my studio, I know that if I really want to grow my skills as an artist, I should also be looking to learn from others. That’s where enrolling in classes and workshops can come in handy.
Sometimes however, the approach to learning something new comes with certain pitfalls.
Here are my Top 10 DOs and DON'Ts when it comes to taking best advantage of your next art class.
Which of the following resonates most with you?
1. DO Come Prepared
Bring all the necessary materials listed by the instructor, such as paints, brushes, and supports (canvas / panels etc).
Being prepared sets the stage for a productive session.
2. DON’T be Afraid of Failure
Being afraid to make mistakes can hinder creativity. It can also be a massive time and energy sapper. If you’re too worried about ‘getting it right’ you’re not letting go and allowing the process to teach you.
DO Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and keep experimenting
Striving for perfection in every piece can stifle creativity and productivity. Embrace imperfections and use them to your advantage.
3. DON’T Overthink Everything
This is often a symptom of Tip No. 1. Over-analysing every brushstroke can lead to stiffness and a lack of spontaneity in your work.
DO Experiment
Try letting go and allowing your instincts to take over for a bit. Use the class as a safe space to try new techniques and styles. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; they're part of the learning process.
4. DON’T Be Impatient
Oil painting can be challenging, so be kind to yourself. Impatience can lead to frustration and discouragement. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is mastery in art (or anything!)
DO Set Goals
Decide what you want to achieve in each class and work towards those goals. Whether it's mastering a specific technique or completing a painting, having a clear objective will keep you motivated. Trust that with practice you will improve. Stay patient and enjoy the process.
5. DON’T Fall for the Comparison Trap
Comparing your work to others’ can be demotivating and cause confusion in your own process.
DO Observe others, but view your work as uniquely your own
Focus on your art’s progression rather than comparing your work and abilities to your classmates’. However, DO take time to observe the work of your classmates. You can learn a lot from multiple approaches and mistakes.
6. DON’T Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Some students feel embarrassed to ask for help when they're struggling. Don't hesitate to reach out to the instructor or classmates for assistance.
DO Ask Questions and Take Notes
Don't hesitate to ask the instructor for clarification or advice. They're there to help you improve, and they may just have an answer that unlocks the next step in your progress with you art. Jot down key tips and techniques shared during the class. These notes will serve as valuable reminders when you practice on your own.
7. DON’T Skip the Basics
Rushing through foundational concepts like colour theory and composition can stagnate your progress.
DO Focus on Fundamentals
Ensure you understand and practice these before moving on to more advanced techniques. Paying attention to the basics like colour mixing, brush techniques, and composition will give you a strong foundation to make your future paintings more successful.
8. DON’T Try To Do Everything At Once
Focus on one discipline at a time. If you jump from class to class, learning multiple mediums and techniques without taking time to practice and consolidate what you’ve learned, you may find yourself frustrated and burnt out with under-developed skills in multiple areas.
DO Pick One Thing You Want to Learn and Get Good At
Focus on that until you’re confident enough to add extra learning into the mix. 
9. DON'T rely solely on time spent in classes to hone your skills
Dedicate personal time self-directed projects and experimentation. Improvement in art requires consistent practice outside of class.
DO Go home and Practice Your Guts Out
Take advantage of the skills you learn in class by practicing outside of the classroom. The more you paint, the better you'll become.
10. DON’T Treat Art as A Secret Recipe
Other artists are colleagues not competitors. Everyone has their own style and technique (whether they like it or not!) and the subjectivity of art means that there will always be an audience who prefers your art over anther person’s. Hoarding knowledge will not keep you ‘ahead of the game’ - it will simply deprive you of the joy of sharing in a creative community.
DO Share your own knowledge and experiences with others
Add your own suggestion to the list by writing it in the comments on this blog post.
Have you got your own art class story or tips you can share? Perhaps you've had a workshop win (or a class crash & burn) - I'd love to hear about them!
In the meantime, enjoy your next art class and I hope you get the most out of it!
Until next time -
