Auriol Herford
The award-winning Kite Studios is a creative oasis for all ages and abilities
The long summer holiday is looming and with it comes the perennial question: how to occupy the kids – not to mention some adults? Two words: Kite Studios. Offering high quality classes, courses and workshops in pottery, drawing, painting, sewing, textiles and printmaking,the buzzing warren of studios is a remarkable community creative hub.
Opened in 2005, Kite Studios is the brainchild of Auriol Herford. ‘Our teachers are fully trained, practising artists (including Clover Lee from The Great Pottery Throwdown).
They create a friendly, fun environment for everyone from 18 month-old toddlers and children with additional needs to home-schoolers, adult beginners and artist-makers who want to use our superb space and equipment.’
Auriol’s artistic philosophy is based on the conviction that learning to draw is fundamental. ‘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!
‘Equally important, we’re passionate about engagement. We want children to think for themselves and have the freedom to experiment. If a student doesn’t naturally sit and concentrate, we make up games to hold their attention; that actually makes the class more vibrant for everyone.’
The artistic programme is arranged for maximum flexibility, allowing students to have a taster session before signing up for a course or take bespoke classes, all of which are bookable online. The facilities are excellent with pottery wheels, etching presses, a heat press and, the most recent addition, a 3D laser cutter.
Kite Studios regularly hosts childrens’ parties and company away-days and, as a Community Interest Company (CIC), the team works with local schools and has a Sponsorship Fund that provides spaces on courses for families that need support.
This inclusive approach – and the excellence of the teaching – has been officially acknowledged. ‘This year we won the Civic Honours Award for Contribution to Arts & Culture in Hammersmith & Fulham,’ says Auriol. ‘We’re delighted that what we do has been recognised in the borough.’
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