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Manchester’s 10 Art Classes Where You Can Unleash Your Creativity
If you think I’m mad about art, you should see me with a paintbrush—let’s just say it’s a whirlwind romance with more colour splashes than a Holi festival in Mumbai.
Trust me, I’ve tried everything from finger painting as a toddler to sophisticated brush strokes that would make Van Gogh raise an eyebrow. But who am I kidding? I’m as likely to be the next Picasso as Manchester is to switch to year-round sun!
But seriously, my penchant for dabbling in all things creative means I’ve been around the block a few times (or canvas, should I say) and have sussed out some of the best spots in Manchester where you can unleash your inner artist.
So, if you’re ready to don your apron, grab a paintbrush, and let your creative juices flow, here are the top art classes in Manchester that are worth every drop of paint—and sip of prosecco!
Paint in the Dark
Media from paintinthedarkexperience
Website: Paint in the Dark
Address: AATMA, 14-16 Faraday St
Contact details: +44 161 222 5678
Operating Hours: Fri – Sat 7PM-10PM
Costs: £££
Having captivated crowds from Paris to São Paulo, Paint in the Dark now lights up Manchester with its electrifying neon-lit ambiance. This unique sip and paint event pairs the glow of UV lights with vibrant, glow-in-the-dark paints, letting you unleash your creativity in a truly luminous setting.
As the upbeat tunes keep the energy high, you’re encouraged to paint with freedom, leaving conventional strokes behind for a night of vivid colours and whimsical designs. It’s an adults-only gathering that combines art, music, and a good drink for a night out that’s anything but ordinary.
The event typically runs for approximately two hours, giving you plenty of time to complete your masterpiece. It’s advisable to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit of paint on, as the fun can sometimes get messy.
| Pro tip: Go all in with neon or white attire to really see yourself shine under the UV lights! |
Pop-Up Painting
Media from pop_up_painting
Website: Pop-Up Painting
Address: Various locations across Manchester
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Fri – Sat 7PM-10PM
Costs: ££
Pop-Up Painting transforms local hangouts across Manchester into vibrant art studios, offering themed painting experiences that cater to all. Whether you’re painting a stormy Van Gogh sky or a tranquil scene by Monet, you’re in for a treat.
These sessions come alive with carefully selected music that complements the painting theme, enhancing your creative experience. All materials are provided, and while expert guidance is available, you’re free to break the mould and paint outside the lines.
A friend and I once attended a session themed around Frida Kahlo, and despite neither of us being particularly skilled painters, we had a blast. The atmosphere was supportive and jovial, with people cheering each other’s attempts and sharing laughs over quirky interpretations.
| Pro tip: Snag a spot early—they’re as popular as the latest gig in town! |
Blank Studio
Media from blankstudiomcr
Website: Blank Studio
Address: Kampus, Makers Quarter, Studio 4, 42 Aytoun Street, M1 3GL
Contact details: +44 161 234 5678
Operating Hours:
- Wed – Fri 12PM-7PM
- Sat 10AM-7PM
- Sun 10AM-6PM
Costs: £
Step into Blank Studio, where traditional brushes take a backseat to innovative art forms. Located in the creative heart of Manchester’s Kampus area, this studio offers a unique paint pouring workshop.
Choose from a variety of sculptures—bears, bunnies, or even clowns—and experiment with a spectrum of colours to pour over your chosen figure. This method allows the colours to blend and flow in unpredictable ways, creating stunning one-of-a-kind pieces that you can take home.
It’s a creative process that’s as therapeutic as it is artistic, and with the array of sizes and shapes, there’s something for every taste.
| Pro tip: Choose contrasting colours for a sculpture that truly pops! |
The Place To Potter
Media from theplacetopotter
Website: The Place To Potter
Address: Heaton Park Garden Centre, Heaton Park, St Margarets’ Road Entrance, Off Bury Old Rd, Prestwich, M25 2GT,
Contact details: +44 161 881 6309
Operating Hours: Tue – Sun 10AM-5PM
Costs: £££
Nestled within Heaton Park Garden Centre, The Place To Potter offers a delightful escape into the world of crafts. More than just pottery (pottery painting manchester), this cosy log cabin lets you dive into an array of creative activities, from pot painting and teddy bear building to slime-making workshops.
It’s a haven for families, offering a variety of birthday party options and seasonal workshops—imagine painting your own Easter decorations or crafting Jack-o-lantern candle holders.
Plus, the cabin serves up light bites like scones with jam and soup, making it a perfect spot for a day out with the kids or a creative pause in your park stroll.
| Pro tip: Seasonal workshops change often, so there’s always something new to try. Make sure you pop by during the holidays! |
Paint Away
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Website: Paint Away
Address: Paint Away Events LTD HQ, Empress Business Center, 380 Chester Rd, Old Trafford, Stretford
Contact details: +44 161 834 9411
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-7PM
Costs: ££
Paint Away takes the traditional paint night and turns it up a notch. Hosting events from upscale city venues like 20 Stories to cosy spots across Chorlton (chorlton manchester) and Alderley Edge, it offers a lively blend of art and party.
With a motto of “put the art in your party”, each session is designed to release your inner artist with themes ranging from 90s Old School R&B to vibrant pop art. As you eat, sip, and perhaps even dance, you can let your creativity flow onto the canvas, guided by a playlist that matches the theme of the night.
Whether you’re an art novice or a seasoned painter, these workshops provide a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
| Pro tip: The pop art sessions are brilliant for channelling your inner Warhol or Lichtenstein. Don’t miss out! |
Cocktails ‘n’ Canvas
Media from cocktailsncanvas
Website: Cocktails ‘n’ Canvas
Address: Various pop-up locations in Manchester
Contact details: 0161 834 8961
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-7PM
Costs: £
Cocktails ‘n’ Canvas offers a unique art class experience where you can unwind and get creative in a relaxed, social setting. Located at various pop-up venues across Manchester, each session features a different theme inspired by nature, from painting serene coastal scenes to vibrant dandelion clocks.
All materials, including easels, paints, canvases, and aprons, are provided—just bring your enthusiasm and a friend or two. These classes are perfect for beginners and more experienced artists alike, offering plenty of room for personal expression while enjoying a selection of delicious cocktails.
Sessions typically last around two to three hours, making them a great option for a night out. You can check their website or subscribe to their newsletter for information on upcoming themes and locations. It’s a BYOB (bring your own beverage) setup for some events, allowing you to bring your favourite drinks.
| Pro tip: The pop art sessions are brilliant for channelling your inner Warhol or Lichtenstein. Don’t miss out! |
Northern Realist
Media from northernrealist
Website: Northern Realist
Address: AWOL Studios, Hope Mill, Pollard St, M4 7JA
Contact details: +44 161 235 4567
Operating Hours: Mon – Fri 9AM-5PM
Costs: ££
Northern Realist at Hope Mill isn’t just any art studio; it’s a creative sanctuary where traditional drawing and painting techniques are honed with a modern twist.
Offering structured workshops and open sessions, the courses are thoughtfully designed to build your skills progressively, focusing on time-honoured principles one step at a time.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to deepen your expertise, the studio’s relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to develop your artistic skills alongside like-minded folks. And if you fancy painting outdoors, don’t miss their summer plein air sessions!
| Pro tip: Join the outdoor workshops to capture Manchester’s urban landscape firsthand—it’s both challenging and rewarding. |
Pottery Corner
Media from pottery_corner
Website: Pottery Corner
Address: 34 Beech Road, Chorlton, M21 9EL
Contact details: +44 161 998 8877
Operating Hours:
- Tue – Fri 11AM-5PM
- Sat 10AM-6PM
- Sun 11AM-5PM
Costs: £
If you’re itching to get your hands dirty with some clay, Pottery Corner in Chorlton is your go-to. This cosy studio on Beech Road is perfect for anyone looking to paint their own ceramics, from snazzy teapots to sleek torpedo vases. Add a personal touch to your creations with your own designs and colours.
Fancy a social evening? Try their group classes where you can shape, paint, and sip on bubbly. Once you’re done, leave your masterpiece to be professionally finished and fired, ready for pickup in about a week and a half.
The studio offers a variety of ceramic items to choose from, ensuring there’s something for every taste and skill level. Group classes are great for team-building, parties, or a unique date night. Pottery Corner also hosts special themed events throughout the year, providing fun and creative seasonal activities.
| Pro tip: Bring a friend to the evening classes—it’s a great way to catch up while creating something unique. |
Ceramic Animal Sculpture Workshop
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Website: Ceramic Animal Sculpture Workshop
Address: Manchester Craft and Design Centre, Studio 3, The Hive, 51 Lever St
Contact details: +44 161 444 5555
Operating Hours: Wed – Sun 11AM-4PM
Costs: £££
Step into the world of clay and creativity with award-winning ceramicist Katherine Lees at the Manchester Craft and Design Centre. This workshop isn’t just about moulding an animal from clay; it’s about adding personality and life to your creation.
You’ll learn various decorating techniques, including under-glazing, to make your ceramic animal truly one-of-a-kind. The classes are open to anyone aged 12 and over, making it a fantastic way to spend quality time with family or friends.
Each session runs for approximately three hours, giving you ample time to perfect your technique and complete your project. While you’ll have to be patient to get your finished piece, the wait is well worth it for a personalised work of art.
| Pro tip: Start with simpler forms if you’re new to sculpting. It’s a joy to see your skills evolve! |
Cork & Canvas
Media from canvas_cork_sweden
Website: Cork & Canvas
Address: Various pop-up locations in Manchester city centre
Contact details: +44 7581 194615
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Costs: £££
Cork & Canvas is the place to be if you’re looking to mix a bit of paint with a splash of prosecco. This pop-up painting class creates a laid-back atmosphere where you can unleash your creativity on canvas with no experience needed.
Guided step-by-step by a resident artist, you’ll be painting with acrylics in no time, while the prosecco keeps the ideas flowing.
Perfect for birthday bashes or corporate events, they can set up a pop-up studio right in your home or office, or you can join them at one of their carefully chosen venues around Manchester city centre. Each event can be tailored with music and more, ensuring your painting session is as lively as it is creative.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye out for their themed nights—great for those looking to paint something specific and enjoy a tailored atmosphere! |
