Auriol Herford (second right)
A creative oasis for all ages and abilities
The Autumn term is about to begin at Kite Studios and with it an exciting array of bespoke and group classes for everyone from 18 month-old toddlers and home-schoolers to adult beginners and artist-makers.
Opened in 2005, the buzzing warren of studios is the brainchild of Auriol Herford. ‘We teach pottery, drawing, painting, sewing, textiles and printmaking and our tutors are all fully trained, practising artists (including Clover Lee from The Great Pottery Throwdown).
‘The programme is arranged for maximum flexibility. All courses are bookable online, they are held during the day and in the evenings and students can choose to take a one-off “taster” session before signing up.’
Auriol’s artistic philosophy is based on learning to draw. ‘Whether from observation, the imagination or simply mark-making, I believe that drawing is the foundation of creativity,’ she explains. ‘That applies to all media – and here we work in everything from mud to oils and use everything from branches to brushes!’
Auriol and her team are passionate about engaging with children. ‘We want them to think for themselves and enjoy the freedom to experiment. If a student doesn’t naturally concentrate, we make up games to hold their attention; that actually makes the experience more vibrant for everyone. In the adult classes, for example Art Explore, we focus on core drawing and painting skills but also encourage students to make the most of our superb facilities – we have a 3D laser cutter and heat and etching presses.’
Kite Studios hosts children’s parties and company away-days and, as a Community Interest Company (CIC), collaborates with children at local schools to create murals. It also has a Sponsorship Fund that provides spaces on courses for families that need support.
This inclusive approach and the excellence of the teaching has seen Kite Studios win a Civic Honours Award for its Contribution to Arts & Culture. Whatever your ability or previous knowledge, it’s the perfect place to discover and develop artistic skills – and have a lot of fun in the process!
Kite Studios
2B Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY
+442085766278
info@kitestudios.org
https://www.kitestudios.org
Kite Studios
2B Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY
+442085766278
info@kitestudios.org
https://www.kitestudios.org