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Tuesdays, 4.30pm-5.30pm during term time £9 standard | £7 members ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Afterschool Art Club is a weekly art session for 7-11 year-olds where we'll: - Make art and take it home - Paint, draw, print, sculpt and try new skills - And enjoy ourselves! Be sure to bring a water bottle and an apron with you. We look forward to welcoming you!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Mondays 4.30pm-6pm during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Suitable for ages 7-11 Join tutor Emma Bowden for this fantastic afterschool arty activity. Learn the key techniques of pottery and create a brand new work of art every week. All materials are included in the workshop price, including firing for your finished piece. Please bring a water bottle and an apron / old shirt. Please note - these sessions are for making only. If you wish to glaze your work, please book a dedicated glazing session separately.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Saturdays 10:30am during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Chinese for Beginners...it’s not as hard as you think! It is as easy as ABC and 123, when you know the basic tools. You'd be surprised what you can learn in only 2 hours a week. This weekly drop-in class offers students the opportunity to learn Mandarin Chinese language, working at a beginner level. Students will also be able to learn about calligraphy. This is a great chance for anyone with an interest in linguistics to being learning a new language. ABOUT THE TUTOR Jay is a multi-linguist who has studied in Beijing and volunteered for QPAC for several years, working with students in workshops, attending events, and helping run front of house during performances. He's now bringing his expertise in languages to students as a tutor. WHAT TO BRING - A notepad - A pen or pencil
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Saturdays 10.30am-12.30pm - see dates below For age 12-16 years These workshops are an opportunity for teens to expand their knowledge and gain confidence in trying new ways of working. Through a combination of short creative drawing challenges and self-driven personal projects we will explore the effects we can achieve with a range of drawing media, papers and some more unusual materials, taking inspiration from modern and historical art. The outcome of these workshops may vary from fully formed stand-alone artworks to a collection of sketches and experiments that may inform your future practice. We will draw, paint, collage and more in response to others’ art and our own, with an option to bind all your artworks together into a small sketchbook to keep them together. All you need to bring is yourself, your creativity, and a desire to explore! While the workshops can be attended as one-off sessions, they will build on each other, allowing participants to continue developing an idea or artwork across multiple sessions.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Wednesdays (12.45pm-1.45pm) during term time. This weekly workshop will cover learning a tune and improvising around it, as well as analysis of the chords and scales. Bring along your own instrument and music stand and you'll have a chance to study the following musical types - New Orleans jazz, Swing, Bepop, Blues, Latin. The class is led by volunteer Rick Atkins. Rick is a jazz enthusiast wants to share his love of the genre with others. Rick plays guitar in the Sound Force Big Band. You can contact Rick on email ratkins161@gmail.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Tuesdays 11am to 11:45am during term time ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Bollywood dance is a style of dance that is heavily influenced by music and culture originated in Bollywood films. This class delivers a Bollywood dance workout session to ladies to encourage physical activity and have fun at the same time. Dance to beats of hottest Bollywood songs and enjoy. It is a fantastic workout with a feel-good factor. It is also a great way to make new friends and socialise. Bollywood dancing is a full-body workout which helps in working both the upper and the lower body at the same time. Bollywood dance is not only an art form but also a physical activity that supports good physical health and mental wellbeing. It’s dancing for everyone from all walks of life – whether you have never danced before or a seasoned dancer, older or younger, you’re sure to find fun in Bollywood dancing. The class is open to ladies only and will be suitable for 18 years - adult. People of all cultures and nationalities are welcome to join. ABOUT THE TUTOR Supriya More is trained in Kathak - North Indian classical dance, Bharatnatyam and different styles of folk dances. She is passionately interested in dance and has been since childhood and believes that dance is the best form of exercise which not only improves physical health but also mental wellbeing. Supriya has experience in delivering Bollywood dance sessions, which includes delivery of innovative forms of dancing mixed with exercises. Supriya has taught dance to beginners as well as advanced levels to different age groups of people. She has delivered professional performances in Vienna, Austria, India as well as the UK at cultural events and large functions. She has also trained young people and adults to deliver dance performances on stage at annual celebrations, gatherings and social functions. WHAT TO BRING Wear comfortable clothes and bring water along. Please note, the workshop will take place in the Centre’s dance studio and participants will be barefoot. This workshop is supported by Aylesbury Town Council.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Dance Studio
Book Club meets once a month - see calendar below for latest dates and book titles. ABOUT THE CLASS This is a friendly reading group who read and talk about one book each month. Attendees take turns to choose the book and come up with discussion questions, then chair the group. Books chosen in the past have ranged from classics such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and The Rainbow by DH Lawrence, to modern fiction such as Atonement by Ian McEwan and We Need To Talk About Kevin by Lionel The club covers different fictional genres and have also discussed other genres of writing such as autobiography and short stories. Attendees will need to have obtained and read a copy of the book chosen for that month. Newcomers are welcome to come to class without having read the book to give it a try! ABOUT THE TUTOR Laura first began running the bookclub at QPAC in 2002 after leaving her job as an English teacher. This enabled her to pursue her love of literature by facilitating classes of willing adults without having to do any marking! In 2005, she embarked on an M.A. in English Literature which she completed shortly before the birth of her daughter in 2007. From 2005 members of the bookclub have taken turns to run the group either in pairs or individually which has been a great success. Laura is on hand to help if needed. CLASS FEEDBACK “Always enjoyable with plenty of lively discussion by class members.” “Joining a book club introduced me to a variety of different genres which I wouldn’t normally read” “When running the book club everyone is very supportive, and although it may seem daunting to do, it isn’t” 2025 DATES On the second Thursday of the Month Thursday 12 June 'James' by Percival Everett
Queens Park Arts Centre
Gallery
Fridays during term time, 10am-12.30pm This is a self-guided group comprising members with a skillset ranging from basic to experienced. Prospective attendees should have their own clarinet (Bb), be able to find their way around the instrument with at least basic skills and be able to read music notation to a basic level as a minimum. The group does not aim to teach attendees from scratch but there is sufficient skill within the members to help players to develop their abilities as required. Playing in a group is the best way to advance your capabilities regardless of whatever level you start. We have capable semi/professional music leaders within the group able to guide us, and musical pieces are chosen by consensus.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Mondays (10am-12.30pm) & Thursdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. A weekly workshop ideal for anyone with a passion for the art of contemporary jewellery. Whether a complete beginner or a practiced jeweller, this friendly drop-in class allows students aged 16+ to direct their own learning and create beautiful, unique pieces. Our experienced tutor Susie Upstone will help guide you through the design and making process – be sure to bring a sketchbook and pens to jot down your ideas! We provide all the tools you need, however raw materials such as metal and gems must be purchased by students. Susie will be able to advise on what you’ll need for your project (including the necessary PPE), and where to source it.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Wednesdays (7pm-9pm) during term time. Guitar Club caters for those wishing to improve their acoustic guitar skills with fellow players in an informal, supportive environment. Taking a song-based approach to workshops, the club aims to practice and refine each number to performance standard, encouraging all to participate and develop their skills. This class is aimed at improving players with knowledge of the basic open chords. For more information email christopheryoxall@outlook.com or nicolaegray@hotmail.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Sessions held on: 2nd Saturday of the month 9.30am - 10.15am 4th Tuesday of the month 6pm - 6.45pm ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Experience the peace and tranquillity which lies within, as you are guided through different meditation techniques by a friendly and experienced tutor. There are also opportunities to learn some easy yoga exercises, chants and breathing techniques that prepare the way for relaxation and meditation. Beginners are welcome! WHAT TO BRING - A yoga mat or cushion. (Can be provided by the arts centre free of charge).
Queens Park Arts Centre
Dance Studio
Wednesdays (2pm-4pm) during term time. This weekly workshop will cover learning a tune and improvising around it, as well as analysis of the chords and scales. Bring along your own instrument and music stand and you'll have a chance to study the following musical types - New Orleans jazz, Swing, Bepop, Blues, Latin. The class is led by volunteer Rick Atkins. Rick is a jazz enthusiast wants to share his love of the genre with others. Rick plays guitar in the Sound Force Big Band. You can contact Rick on email ratkins161@gmail.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Untutored class running Thursdays during term time, 1.30pm-4pm. This informal, social class gives lacemakers a chance to work independently on their own projects, whilst sharing their skills with likeminded artists and makers. Equipment needed: a lace pillow, bobbins, pins and thread plus a pricking or pattern.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Tuesdays Tutored 19.15 – 21.30 and Saturdays Untutored 10.00 – 12.30 during term time. Tuesday evening Tutored class19.15 – 21.30 This friendly tutored class with Ayşe Kongur is ideal for all levels and styles. Ayşe will share her knowledge of anatomical drawing, this is a great place start if you are new to life drawing. If you are more experienced the class is a really good place to share and build your practice. Reduced price tickets are available for school students (16+) or with a student card, these must be booked in person. Ayşe is a creative designer working in graphic and digital design. She is passionate about life drawing, which she also uses within her own design practice. If you have any questions about the Tuesday evening workshop please feel free to contact Ayşe on ayse@kongur.co.uk. Saturday morning Untutored class10.00 – 12.30 Untutored life drawing sessions are somewhere to learn from fellow artists, share your work and discuss your process. Please arrive at the start time so that you can set up your easel / drawing bench. If you are new to the studio one of the regular attendees will be able to show you where everything is! Workshops run in two halves with a 20 minute coffee-break in between. The first session usually has shorter poses of 5 minutes-15 minutes, and the second session has longer poses 30-60 minutes. WHAT TO BRING Easels and drawing boards are provided. Bring your own choice of materials, for example charcoal, pencil, inks or paint and papers. The centre has an art shop (at reception). If you are using oil paints you must bring in own mediums/brush cleaner. You will need to please use only low-odour solvents - brands such as Zest-It and Sansodour - and bring jam jars so that you can take solvent waste home with you, it must not be poured down the sink.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Thursday 29 May 10am - 1pm Ages: 8 - 12 Price: £19 standard / £17 members Children's Collage with Lindsey Grexhammer - Outback Australian Animals Young artists can brush up their painting, drawing and collaging skills this Easter holiday in this class with art tutor Lindsey Grexhammer. Using paint, oil pastels, watercolour pencils, coloured pencils and collage the children will learn how to draw or make butterfiles, dragonflies, caterpillars, snails and flowers to create a meadows artwork. WHAT TO BRING All the materials are included. Please bring with you a snack or change for the cafe, and a bottle of water. There will be a break to eat your snack during the workshop. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Wednesday 28 May 10am - 12.30pm Ages: 7 -11 Price: £16 / £14 Children's Pottery workshop: Kingfishers ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Join tutor V Hayward and come and sculpt a pottery Kingfisher sitting on a brach waiting for its next catch! We will create our kingfishers with inspiration from images of these magestic birds while learning a bit about how and where they live in the wild. We will use air-hardening clay so you can take your creations with you at the end and paint them at home. Remember to come in old clothes, as clay can get messy! WHAT TO BRING: Please bring with you a snack and a bottle of water, or there is a coffee bar on site. There will be a break to eat your snack during the workshop. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron and a cardboard box! Materials are provided and we will be using Air-drying clay so that you can take your sculpture home with you.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Thursday 29 May 10:30am - 13.00pm Ages: 7 -11 Price: £16 / £14 Children's Pottery workshop: Woodland Houses ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Join tutor V Hayward sculpt a Woodland house, who knows who or what lives inside! We will use reference images to create the houses and then fill them with stories of their inhabitants, be sure to bring your imagination with you! We will use air-hardening clay so you can take your creations with you at the end and paint them at home. Remember to come in old clothes, as clay can get messy! WHAT TO BRING: Please bring with you a snack and a bottle of water, or there is a coffee bar on site. There will be a break to eat your snack during the workshop. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron and a cardboard box! Materials are provided and we will be using Air-drying clay so that you can take your sculpture home with you.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Wednesday 28 May 10.30am - 1pm Ages: 10 - 15 Price: £16 standard / £14 members Children's & Teens Art Workshop - Pop Art Portraits - Half 'n' POP ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Our tutor Ayşe Kongur is bringing back her popular workshop in portraiture for young creatives! Half ’n’ POP is aptly titled: half photo, half creatively drawn or painted portrait sessions aimed at 10 -15 year olds. The workshop is going to encourage individual creativity using references from Pop Art and cartoons. For this special occasion we would like the children to have appropriate portrait photos taken on a white background for easy tracing. We will then use tracing paper to trace the contours, working with gouache or acrylics or pencil or any other preferred medium, finally joining it with the original colour laser printed photo side by side on an A3 card paper. WHAT TO BRING: Children are advised to bring a digital mugshot with them, either fit-to-shrink A4 size colour/black and white printed copy or a digital copy. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron! ABOUT THE TUTOR: A professional graphic designer, Ayşe originally trained at University in Turkey and her career has spanned Europe and the UK. With creative interests as diverse as anatomical drawing and performance poetry, Ayşe particularly enjoys teaching art to younger people and runs ongoing life drawing classes at QPAC and further afield.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Thursdays 3pm - 4pm £6.80 / some fully funded places available for people experiencing financial hardship - please get in touch. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Collaging your way to wellbeing... Art workshops especially aimed to be supportive of mental health. This half-term, come along and make a creative collage with a wide variety of materials, paints and found objects. Your tutor will give you all the guidance you need and you can pick up a new crafty skill or two! You will be able to work on your own work among a small group, in a supportive environment. These workshops are designed for those who may be suffering from anxiety, stress, emotional distress, or chronic pain. They are open to everybody, regardless of experience or what you judge to be your ‘skill’ level in art and craft – come and get creative! This workshop runs on a Thursday afternoon. You can attend as many as you like but please book ahead, as there is limited space. No prior experience is required or skill in arts or crafts. All materials will be provided. ABOUT THE TUTOR Belinda Hunt is an Art Therapist, Artist and Teacher who focuses her work on wellbeing and health and on our relation to each other and to our planet. Belinda has run mindfulness based art workshops since before Covid, and during the pandemic focused on art in health to promote wellbeing through containment and self-regulation, reducing anxiety and suffering. She works with individuals and groups, promoting personal and social wellbeing through the art process and outcomes. Belinda works across various media in 2D and 3D and has exhibited locally as well as in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, London and Scotland.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Thursdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. This is a friendly, welcoming and supportive group, where students can bring their own creative project to work on, share ideas and “leave the world behind”. A great way to meet like-minded people. Group members explore at a variety of crafts, including silk painting, felt making, papier mache, tie dye, fabric painting, marbling, glass painting, collage, dought craft and more! Members of the group pursue their own projects in a happy, relaxed atmosphere. If there's a particular craft you'd like to try then let the group know and they'll see if they can help or advise. The group is facilitated by Irene Scott, who has been involved in arts & crafts (and QPAC) for 40 years, and has a broad knowledge of many different craft activities, including those mentioned above.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Mondays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. This workshop is ideal for anyone with an interest in painting with oils, whether a practised hand or a beginner exploring the medium for the first time. Tutor Michael Navarro is a local artist who has been working for several years in various media, predominately oils. His works range from landscapes to pop art and murals. Our painting studio has easels, painting boards and other communal facilities. We also have an art shop selling paints, paper and brushes, if you don’t have them already. Michael will be happy to advise on what resources you need to get started. BEGINNERS RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT LIST: Canvas board 8x10 or 9x12 Brushes - Bristle or Synthetic sizes 2,4,8 (brush type is the artists choice) Tear away palette Artist grade thinner - ‘Sansodor’ is a good option Receptacle for the thinner - a sealable jar is a good start Kitchen towel or rag Titanium white oil paint Ivory black oil paint (Further colours will be discussed for purchase going forward) Please enquire at the QPAC art shop to see what items are available for you to purchase in-house.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Wednesdays (10am-12pm) during term time. Release your creativity in this weekly workshop open to all levels of experience, from complete beginners to professional painters. Students are welcome to work on any subject they please in whichever medium they prefer, whether oils, acrylics, watercolours, pastels, charcoal, pencil or mixed media. Anyone just starting out in painting & drawing can seek advice from tutor Anne Bennison, whilst those with more experience are welcome to work at their own pace. The painting studio has plenty of easels and drawing boards. Materials such as paints, paper, pencils and brushes are available at the QPAC art shop.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Thursdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. Explore and develop your creativity as a member of this friendly weekly workshop. Work from reference photographs in your chosen media (e.g. pencil, charcoal, acrylics). The group also do occasional projects to encourage exploration of techniques and development of skills by looking at the work of different artists (e.g. Picasso, Matisse, Fedden, Van Gogh) or through more specific themes such as perspective. Themes are set approximately every 3 weeks and you may work from your own photograph or those provided by the tutor. Suitable for all levels including beginners. Bring your own materials. The painting studio has plenty of easels and drawing boards. Additional materials such as paints, paper and brushes are available to buy from the QPAC art shop. Tutor Amanda Curbishley joined QPAC as a member of this group in 2002 and has gone on to exhibit and sell work at local exhibitions. She wants to share the enjoyment she has from painting and encourage others to develop their skills.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Tuesdays 10am during term time Improve your skills in portraiture with drawing and painting in acrylics. You will be working from a mixture of photographs and live sitters, and exploring materials from charcoal to paint. Come and try our new weekly workshop that will suit all levels, beginners and improvers particularly welcome! ABOUT THE TUTOR John has been drawing and painting for 30 years with West Wycombe Art, alongside a career in kitchen design. WHAT TO BRING Basic drawing materials (charcoal and paper) will be provided, however you may need to buy further materials as you progress and John will be on hand to advise on this. If you have any queries before you come along, please contact John on johneasterling4@gmail.com.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Monday-Thursday (see below for timings) during term time. Pottery is one of the most popular activities at QPAC, spaces fill up extremely quickly, if you have some experience you may wish to book onto one of our untutored classes. Click here for untutored classes. Tutored classes We run classes throughout the week, giving students access to our fully-equipped studio spaces to learn and develop their skills in ceramics - whether sculpting, working at the wheel, or using hand-building techniques such as coiling. Our tutored drop-in classes are perfect for complete beginners as well as those developing their talents. Our experienced tutors will offer demonstrations, advice and guidance to help you develop your own projects, from the design stage through to the final glazing process. Your workshop fee includes use of our facilities, including clay and a wide variety of tools. If you would like to have your work fired there is an additional charge, calculated based on the weight of the piece. Our tutors will be on hand to assist when working this out. Please be mindful that it's in the nature of working with pottery that it's likely you'll need to book in for several sessions in order to complete a project. Here is a timetable of our regular drop-in workshops: Day / Time Tutor TUE AM – 10am-12.30pm Helen Neighbour (This session is untutored. Newcomers must book onto an alternative tutored session) TUE PM – 7pm-9.30pm NEW Patrick Hayward (Beginners Class, 6-week block bookings only) WED AM – 10am-12.30pm Gill Brown WED PM – 7pm-9.30pm Patrick Hayward THU AM – 10am-12.30pm Jenny Hay THU PM – 1.30pm-4pm NEW Wendy Edmundson (This class is running without Wendy until 30th January. Beginners must book onto a session with a tutor in attendance.) THU PM – 7pm-9.30pm Charlie Butters Click here for untutored classes.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
Access the Queens Park pottery studios for untutored sessions. Ideal for experienced ceramicists looking to work independently on their projects. PLEASE NOTE: Untutored sessions are not suitable for beginners. If you’re a beginner looking to try out pottery but aren’t too sure where to start, please book one of our tutored classes rather than these untutored sessions. What are the facilities? We have two separate adjoining studio rooms, one for making (sculpture and throwing) and the other for glazing. There are five electric potters wheels which may be used on a first come, first served basis. Some tools, mats, molds, rolling pins and batts are provided, along with stoneware clay. In the making room, there are two long, raised communal workbenches with stools, seating 14 - 18 people. We provide designated storage shelves for ongoing projects (due to the communal nature of our rooms work is left at own risk). There is a damp cupboard for storing works in progress to be kept wet. Materials costs Clay is paid for at the point of firing a piece and the cost is calculated by weight. One fee will cover the cost of clay, bisque- and glaze-firing services and glazes. Unused clay or made items not desired to be fired must be prepared for recycling according to the instructions in the making room. For indicative firing times, please consult the Technician. Own clays and glazes If you wish to use any other clays or glazes than those provided by QPAC, it is your responsibility to discuss suitability with the Technician ahead of bringing the item/materials into the centre. When can I attend? Please note that the session timetable applies to term-times; sessions may not be available during school holiday periods. Monday 1pm - 3.30pm & 7pm - 9.30pm Tuesday 2pm - 4.30pm, 4.30pm - 7pm & 7pm - 9.30pm Wednesday 2pm - 4.30pm Friday 10am - 1pm & 1pm - 4.30pm
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
*Please note the course dates often sell out very quickly- if you would like to go on the waiting list, please contact fohteam@queensparkarts.com Come and take your potter's wheel driving test in the this fun and friendly one-day class. This class is ideal for students working at all different levels of ceramics. Whether a first-timer looking to get to grips with clay, or a more experienced potter wanting to explore new shapes and forms (e.g. bowls, bottles, plats, faceting and external decoration), our tutor is here to help! Your course fee includes the cost of firing for two pieces.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Thursdays (4.30-6pm) during term time. A weekly tutor-led workshop designed to inspire and nurture young emerging artists and makers. Students ages 12+ are welcome attend, whether a complete beginner or a practiced hand. You’ll learn how to design and create your very own ceramic works of art, be it a mug, bowl, plate, vase or sculpture – perfect for your portfolio or just for fun! Full guidance is offered to students to help them develop their projects. Your workshop fee includes use of our facilities, including clay and a wide variety of tools. If you would like to have your work fired there is an additional charge, calculated based on the weight of the piece. You tutor will be on hand to assist when working this out.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
Mondays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. An untutored weekly workshop for recorder players keen to perform as part of a group. The recorder is wonderfully fun to play, and this class aims to revive our enjoyment of an easy yet undervalued instrument. Even if you haven’t picked one up for years, come along and enjoy rediscovering your skills in this untutored group.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
One-day class running on Sat 24 May, Fri 18 July & Sat 19 July 2025 10.30am-3.30pm Come to this hands-on workshop and learn how to make your own stained glass panel. You will finish the day with your completed piece ready to take home! All materials are included, please wear closed-toe shoes (not sandals). Carrie will provide a number of her own designs for you to choose from and work with during the workshop, or alternatively, participants are welcome to come with your own design or ideas and Carrie can advise on how to translate them into stained glass. The morning will focus on cutting your glass components and in the afternoon you will solder your work. No prior experience is needed for this workshop. If you have any questions about this workshop, please contact the arts centre on fohteam@queensparkarts.com. **Please read the below if you are booking for the workshops in July (Friday 18th and/or Saturday 19th)** These are day-long standalone workshops booked individually, however you may choose to book and attend both dates.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Mondays (4.30pm-7pm) during term time. This class will show you the simple and basic techniques of Tapestry, and share the enjoyment of creative weaving. You can create an interesting woven tapestry piece of fabricated wall art in a very short time, using just about anything to weave with from wool, wire and fabric to hard things like twigs or leaves. You can experiment with different materials to make the wall art you desire for your home, learning simple aspects of colour theory to help chose the right colours for your project. Once you have developed the basic skills, you can design your own abstract pattern in landscape or portrait. WHAT TO BRING: Most materials can be provided for your first session, however regular attendees should bring the following: -A old picture frame (minus glass) - A4 or larger -A flat piece of wood slightly wider than the frame -String -Knitting wool, wire, fabric, etc to weave with -Plastic Needles -Plastic Fork
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Sessions take place on Sat 17 May 10am - 1pm & Sat 21 Jun 10am - 1pm Join tutor V Hayward and learn how to use a pottery wheel or develop your skills in this beginner-friendly throwing workshop! Spaces are limited so be sure to book in advance.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Tuesdays (10am -12:30pm) & Wednesdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. PLEASE NOTE: These sessions are for wood turning at the lathe. If you would like to book a general woodwork session (running on the same dates / times), please click here. What Will I Learn? These sessions aim to improve your ability in working with wood and fulfilling your ambition in creating a product of your choice under the guidance of the tutor. During the sessions you will work on a project of your own choice so that your own level of skill increases and you finish with a completed item. You will be encouraged and instructed in the use of electrical powered hand tools. The room is equipped with a woodturning lathes so there will be an opportunity to learn or to continue some woodturning. During the sessions learners will: - Select materials and tools appropriate to the chosen task. - Show how materials are cut, shaped and formed, to designed tolerances. - Use design briefs to guide design thinking. - Practice skills to complete other projects at home. - Observe health & safety issues concerning woodworking. Is This For Me? These sessions are for those with a general interest in woodwork and who have a project in mind. It is suitable for all levels of ability and will be taught on an individual basis. During the sessions, the tutor will provide small group demonstrations and individual support to ensure that learners can work at their own level and at their own pace. What Do I Need To Bring? Please bring a pencil and project idea(s). These will be discussed and, by the end of your first session, a plan will be drawn up including a cutting list and some idea of the cost. Learners will need to provide their own materials, which can’t be stored at the centre, and brought to each session. The use of different materials will be discussed relative to their cost eg. bookcase made from MDF will be much cheaper to make than one of solid oak. It depends on your choice as to how much you spend. How will I know that my skills have improved? At the start, you will decide (with help from your tutor) what you want to get out of the course. There will be regular opportunities to review your progress and at the end of the course you will have the chance to reflect on what you have learnt and how your skills have improved.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Thursdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. This untutored weekly workshop is perfect for woodcarvers with enough experience to direct their own learning, offering a chance to work on projects alongside likeminded artists and makers. The group isn’t suited to beginners, however if you’ve had experience of woodcarving before and want to continue the art in a supportive atmosphere then this is the group for you. Students are welcome to use the communal facilities in the QPAC woodwork studio, however must bring their own timber and carving tools. Casual clothes and stout shoes recommended!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Tuesdays (10am -12:30pm) & Wednesdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. PLEASE NOTE: These sessions are for general woodwork only - if you would like to book a session wood turning on the lathe, (running on the same dates / times), please here. What Will I Learn? These sessions aim to improve your ability in working with wood and fulfilling your ambition in creating a product of your choice under the guidance of the tutor. During the sessions you will work on a project of your own choice so that your own level of skill increases and you finish with a completed item. You will be encouraged and instructed in the use of electrical powered hand tools. The room is equipped with a woodturning lathes so there will be an opportunity to learn or to continue some woodturning. During the sessions learners will: - Select materials and tools appropriate to the chosen task. - Show how materials are cut, shaped and formed, to designed tolerances. - Use design briefs to guide design thinking. - Practice skills to complete other projects at home. - Observe health & safety issues concerning woodworking. Is This For Me? These sessions are for those with a general interest in woodwork and who have a project in mind. It is suitable for all levels of ability and will be taught on an individual basis. During the sessions, the tutor will provide small group demonstrations and individual support to ensure that learners can work at their own level and at their own pace. What Do I Need To Bring? Please bring a pencil and project idea(s). These will be discussed and, by the end of your first session, a plan will be drawn up including a cutting list and some idea of the cost. Learners will need to provide their own materials, which can’t be stored at the centre, and brought to each session. The use of different materials will be discussed relative to their cost eg. bookcase made from MDF will be much cheaper to make than one of solid oak. It depends on your choice as to how much you spend. How will I know that my skills have improved? At the start, you will decide (with help from your tutor) what you want to get out of the course. There will be regular opportunities to review your progress and at the end of the course you will have the chance to reflect on what you have learnt and how your skills have improved.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Thursdays 5.30pm-6.30pm, during term time. Click here for term dates. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Mindfulness yoga incorporates the practice of mindfulness within the practice and is conducive for students physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. The class includes warm up, joint loosening, stretching, yoga poses, breathing practices (pranayama) meditation and relaxation. ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena is a yoga teacher trained in classical Hatha yoga, and a minded yoga therapist and teen yoga instructor. She has been teaching yoga since 1998 mainly within NHS settings until she retired in 2015. Since her retirement, Helena has been teaching in various community settings and, for the last two years since lockdown, has been teaching her classes via Zoom. WHAT TO BRING Please bring a yoga mat with you. You may also wish to bring additional cushions for support, and/or a blanket / shawl.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Tuesdays, 4.30pm-5.30pm during term time £9 standard | £7 members ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Afterschool Art Club is a weekly art session for 7-11 year-olds where we'll: - Make art and take it home - Paint, draw, print, sculpt and try new skills - And enjoy ourselves! Be sure to bring a water bottle and an apron with you. We look forward to welcoming you!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Mondays 4.30pm-6pm during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Suitable for ages 7-11 Join tutor Emma Bowden for this fantastic afterschool arty activity. Learn the key techniques of pottery and create a brand new work of art every week. All materials are included in the workshop price, including firing for your finished piece. Please bring a water bottle and an apron / old shirt. Please note - these sessions are for making only. If you wish to glaze your work, please book a dedicated glazing session separately.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Saturdays 10:30am during term time. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Chinese for Beginners...it’s not as hard as you think! It is as easy as ABC and 123, when you know the basic tools. You'd be surprised what you can learn in only 2 hours a week. This weekly drop-in class offers students the opportunity to learn Mandarin Chinese language, working at a beginner level. Students will also be able to learn about calligraphy. This is a great chance for anyone with an interest in linguistics to being learning a new language. ABOUT THE TUTOR Jay is a multi-linguist who has studied in Beijing and volunteered for QPAC for several years, working with students in workshops, attending events, and helping run front of house during performances. He's now bringing his expertise in languages to students as a tutor. WHAT TO BRING - A notepad - A pen or pencil
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Saturdays 10.30am-12.30pm - see dates below For age 12-16 years These workshops are an opportunity for teens to expand their knowledge and gain confidence in trying new ways of working. Through a combination of short creative drawing challenges and self-driven personal projects we will explore the effects we can achieve with a range of drawing media, papers and some more unusual materials, taking inspiration from modern and historical art. The outcome of these workshops may vary from fully formed stand-alone artworks to a collection of sketches and experiments that may inform your future practice. We will draw, paint, collage and more in response to others’ art and our own, with an option to bind all your artworks together into a small sketchbook to keep them together. All you need to bring is yourself, your creativity, and a desire to explore! While the workshops can be attended as one-off sessions, they will build on each other, allowing participants to continue developing an idea or artwork across multiple sessions.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Wednesdays (12.45pm-1.45pm) during term time. This weekly workshop will cover learning a tune and improvising around it, as well as analysis of the chords and scales. Bring along your own instrument and music stand and you'll have a chance to study the following musical types - New Orleans jazz, Swing, Bepop, Blues, Latin. The class is led by volunteer Rick Atkins. Rick is a jazz enthusiast wants to share his love of the genre with others. Rick plays guitar in the Sound Force Big Band. You can contact Rick on email ratkins161@gmail.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Tuesdays 11am to 11:45am during term time ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Bollywood dance is a style of dance that is heavily influenced by music and culture originated in Bollywood films. This class delivers a Bollywood dance workout session to ladies to encourage physical activity and have fun at the same time. Dance to beats of hottest Bollywood songs and enjoy. It is a fantastic workout with a feel-good factor. It is also a great way to make new friends and socialise. Bollywood dancing is a full-body workout which helps in working both the upper and the lower body at the same time. Bollywood dance is not only an art form but also a physical activity that supports good physical health and mental wellbeing. It’s dancing for everyone from all walks of life – whether you have never danced before or a seasoned dancer, older or younger, you’re sure to find fun in Bollywood dancing. The class is open to ladies only and will be suitable for 18 years - adult. People of all cultures and nationalities are welcome to join. ABOUT THE TUTOR Supriya More is trained in Kathak - North Indian classical dance, Bharatnatyam and different styles of folk dances. She is passionately interested in dance and has been since childhood and believes that dance is the best form of exercise which not only improves physical health but also mental wellbeing. Supriya has experience in delivering Bollywood dance sessions, which includes delivery of innovative forms of dancing mixed with exercises. Supriya has taught dance to beginners as well as advanced levels to different age groups of people. She has delivered professional performances in Vienna, Austria, India as well as the UK at cultural events and large functions. She has also trained young people and adults to deliver dance performances on stage at annual celebrations, gatherings and social functions. WHAT TO BRING Wear comfortable clothes and bring water along. Please note, the workshop will take place in the Centre’s dance studio and participants will be barefoot. This workshop is supported by Aylesbury Town Council.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Dance Studio
Book Club meets once a month - see calendar below for latest dates and book titles. ABOUT THE CLASS This is a friendly reading group who read and talk about one book each month. Attendees take turns to choose the book and come up with discussion questions, then chair the group. Books chosen in the past have ranged from classics such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and The Rainbow by DH Lawrence, to modern fiction such as Atonement by Ian McEwan and We Need To Talk About Kevin by Lionel The club covers different fictional genres and have also discussed other genres of writing such as autobiography and short stories. Attendees will need to have obtained and read a copy of the book chosen for that month. Newcomers are welcome to come to class without having read the book to give it a try! ABOUT THE TUTOR Laura first began running the bookclub at QPAC in 2002 after leaving her job as an English teacher. This enabled her to pursue her love of literature by facilitating classes of willing adults without having to do any marking! In 2005, she embarked on an M.A. in English Literature which she completed shortly before the birth of her daughter in 2007. From 2005 members of the bookclub have taken turns to run the group either in pairs or individually which has been a great success. Laura is on hand to help if needed. CLASS FEEDBACK “Always enjoyable with plenty of lively discussion by class members.” “Joining a book club introduced me to a variety of different genres which I wouldn’t normally read” “When running the book club everyone is very supportive, and although it may seem daunting to do, it isn’t” 2025 DATES On the second Thursday of the Month Thursday 12 June 'James' by Percival Everett
Queens Park Arts Centre
Gallery
Fridays during term time, 10am-12.30pm This is a self-guided group comprising members with a skillset ranging from basic to experienced. Prospective attendees should have their own clarinet (Bb), be able to find their way around the instrument with at least basic skills and be able to read music notation to a basic level as a minimum. The group does not aim to teach attendees from scratch but there is sufficient skill within the members to help players to develop their abilities as required. Playing in a group is the best way to advance your capabilities regardless of whatever level you start. We have capable semi/professional music leaders within the group able to guide us, and musical pieces are chosen by consensus.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Mondays (10am-12.30pm) & Thursdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. A weekly workshop ideal for anyone with a passion for the art of contemporary jewellery. Whether a complete beginner or a practiced jeweller, this friendly drop-in class allows students aged 16+ to direct their own learning and create beautiful, unique pieces. Our experienced tutor Susie Upstone will help guide you through the design and making process – be sure to bring a sketchbook and pens to jot down your ideas! We provide all the tools you need, however raw materials such as metal and gems must be purchased by students. Susie will be able to advise on what you’ll need for your project (including the necessary PPE), and where to source it.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Wednesdays (7pm-9pm) during term time. Guitar Club caters for those wishing to improve their acoustic guitar skills with fellow players in an informal, supportive environment. Taking a song-based approach to workshops, the club aims to practice and refine each number to performance standard, encouraging all to participate and develop their skills. This class is aimed at improving players with knowledge of the basic open chords. For more information email christopheryoxall@outlook.com or nicolaegray@hotmail.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Sessions held on: 2nd Saturday of the month 9.30am - 10.15am 4th Tuesday of the month 6pm - 6.45pm ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Experience the peace and tranquillity which lies within, as you are guided through different meditation techniques by a friendly and experienced tutor. There are also opportunities to learn some easy yoga exercises, chants and breathing techniques that prepare the way for relaxation and meditation. Beginners are welcome! WHAT TO BRING - A yoga mat or cushion. (Can be provided by the arts centre free of charge).
Queens Park Arts Centre
Dance Studio
Wednesdays (2pm-4pm) during term time. This weekly workshop will cover learning a tune and improvising around it, as well as analysis of the chords and scales. Bring along your own instrument and music stand and you'll have a chance to study the following musical types - New Orleans jazz, Swing, Bepop, Blues, Latin. The class is led by volunteer Rick Atkins. Rick is a jazz enthusiast wants to share his love of the genre with others. Rick plays guitar in the Sound Force Big Band. You can contact Rick on email ratkins161@gmail.com
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
Untutored class running Thursdays during term time, 1.30pm-4pm. This informal, social class gives lacemakers a chance to work independently on their own projects, whilst sharing their skills with likeminded artists and makers. Equipment needed: a lace pillow, bobbins, pins and thread plus a pricking or pattern.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Tuesdays Tutored 19.15 – 21.30 and Saturdays Untutored 10.00 – 12.30 during term time. Tuesday evening Tutored class19.15 – 21.30 This friendly tutored class with Ayşe Kongur is ideal for all levels and styles. Ayşe will share her knowledge of anatomical drawing, this is a great place start if you are new to life drawing. If you are more experienced the class is a really good place to share and build your practice. Reduced price tickets are available for school students (16+) or with a student card, these must be booked in person. Ayşe is a creative designer working in graphic and digital design. She is passionate about life drawing, which she also uses within her own design practice. If you have any questions about the Tuesday evening workshop please feel free to contact Ayşe on ayse@kongur.co.uk. Saturday morning Untutored class10.00 – 12.30 Untutored life drawing sessions are somewhere to learn from fellow artists, share your work and discuss your process. Please arrive at the start time so that you can set up your easel / drawing bench. If you are new to the studio one of the regular attendees will be able to show you where everything is! Workshops run in two halves with a 20 minute coffee-break in between. The first session usually has shorter poses of 5 minutes-15 minutes, and the second session has longer poses 30-60 minutes. WHAT TO BRING Easels and drawing boards are provided. Bring your own choice of materials, for example charcoal, pencil, inks or paint and papers. The centre has an art shop (at reception). If you are using oil paints you must bring in own mediums/brush cleaner. You will need to please use only low-odour solvents - brands such as Zest-It and Sansodour - and bring jam jars so that you can take solvent waste home with you, it must not be poured down the sink.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Thursday 29 May 10am - 1pm Ages: 8 - 12 Price: £19 standard / £17 members Children's Collage with Lindsey Grexhammer - Outback Australian Animals Young artists can brush up their painting, drawing and collaging skills this Easter holiday in this class with art tutor Lindsey Grexhammer. Using paint, oil pastels, watercolour pencils, coloured pencils and collage the children will learn how to draw or make butterfiles, dragonflies, caterpillars, snails and flowers to create a meadows artwork. WHAT TO BRING All the materials are included. Please bring with you a snack or change for the cafe, and a bottle of water. There will be a break to eat your snack during the workshop. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Wednesday 28 May 10am - 12.30pm Ages: 7 -11 Price: £16 / £14 Children's Pottery workshop: Kingfishers ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Join tutor V Hayward and come and sculpt a pottery Kingfisher sitting on a brach waiting for its next catch! We will create our kingfishers with inspiration from images of these magestic birds while learning a bit about how and where they live in the wild. We will use air-hardening clay so you can take your creations with you at the end and paint them at home. Remember to come in old clothes, as clay can get messy! WHAT TO BRING: Please bring with you a snack and a bottle of water, or there is a coffee bar on site. There will be a break to eat your snack during the workshop. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron and a cardboard box! Materials are provided and we will be using Air-drying clay so that you can take your sculpture home with you.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Thursday 29 May 10:30am - 13.00pm Ages: 7 -11 Price: £16 / £14 Children's Pottery workshop: Woodland Houses ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Join tutor V Hayward sculpt a Woodland house, who knows who or what lives inside! We will use reference images to create the houses and then fill them with stories of their inhabitants, be sure to bring your imagination with you! We will use air-hardening clay so you can take your creations with you at the end and paint them at home. Remember to come in old clothes, as clay can get messy! WHAT TO BRING: Please bring with you a snack and a bottle of water, or there is a coffee bar on site. There will be a break to eat your snack during the workshop. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron and a cardboard box! Materials are provided and we will be using Air-drying clay so that you can take your sculpture home with you.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Wednesday 28 May 10.30am - 1pm Ages: 10 - 15 Price: £16 standard / £14 members Children's & Teens Art Workshop - Pop Art Portraits - Half 'n' POP ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: Our tutor Ayşe Kongur is bringing back her popular workshop in portraiture for young creatives! Half ’n’ POP is aptly titled: half photo, half creatively drawn or painted portrait sessions aimed at 10 -15 year olds. The workshop is going to encourage individual creativity using references from Pop Art and cartoons. For this special occasion we would like the children to have appropriate portrait photos taken on a white background for easy tracing. We will then use tracing paper to trace the contours, working with gouache or acrylics or pencil or any other preferred medium, finally joining it with the original colour laser printed photo side by side on an A3 card paper. WHAT TO BRING: Children are advised to bring a digital mugshot with them, either fit-to-shrink A4 size colour/black and white printed copy or a digital copy. Please wear old clothes and bring an apron! ABOUT THE TUTOR: A professional graphic designer, Ayşe originally trained at University in Turkey and her career has spanned Europe and the UK. With creative interests as diverse as anatomical drawing and performance poetry, Ayşe particularly enjoys teaching art to younger people and runs ongoing life drawing classes at QPAC and further afield.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Thursdays 3pm - 4pm £6.80 / some fully funded places available for people experiencing financial hardship - please get in touch. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Collaging your way to wellbeing... Art workshops especially aimed to be supportive of mental health. This half-term, come along and make a creative collage with a wide variety of materials, paints and found objects. Your tutor will give you all the guidance you need and you can pick up a new crafty skill or two! You will be able to work on your own work among a small group, in a supportive environment. These workshops are designed for those who may be suffering from anxiety, stress, emotional distress, or chronic pain. They are open to everybody, regardless of experience or what you judge to be your ‘skill’ level in art and craft – come and get creative! This workshop runs on a Thursday afternoon. You can attend as many as you like but please book ahead, as there is limited space. No prior experience is required or skill in arts or crafts. All materials will be provided. ABOUT THE TUTOR Belinda Hunt is an Art Therapist, Artist and Teacher who focuses her work on wellbeing and health and on our relation to each other and to our planet. Belinda has run mindfulness based art workshops since before Covid, and during the pandemic focused on art in health to promote wellbeing through containment and self-regulation, reducing anxiety and suffering. She works with individuals and groups, promoting personal and social wellbeing through the art process and outcomes. Belinda works across various media in 2D and 3D and has exhibited locally as well as in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, London and Scotland.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Thursdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. This is a friendly, welcoming and supportive group, where students can bring their own creative project to work on, share ideas and “leave the world behind”. A great way to meet like-minded people. Group members explore at a variety of crafts, including silk painting, felt making, papier mache, tie dye, fabric painting, marbling, glass painting, collage, dought craft and more! Members of the group pursue their own projects in a happy, relaxed atmosphere. If there's a particular craft you'd like to try then let the group know and they'll see if they can help or advise. The group is facilitated by Irene Scott, who has been involved in arts & crafts (and QPAC) for 40 years, and has a broad knowledge of many different craft activities, including those mentioned above.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Craft Studio
Mondays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. This workshop is ideal for anyone with an interest in painting with oils, whether a practised hand or a beginner exploring the medium for the first time. Tutor Michael Navarro is a local artist who has been working for several years in various media, predominately oils. His works range from landscapes to pop art and murals. Our painting studio has easels, painting boards and other communal facilities. We also have an art shop selling paints, paper and brushes, if you don’t have them already. Michael will be happy to advise on what resources you need to get started. BEGINNERS RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT LIST: Canvas board 8x10 or 9x12 Brushes - Bristle or Synthetic sizes 2,4,8 (brush type is the artists choice) Tear away palette Artist grade thinner - ‘Sansodor’ is a good option Receptacle for the thinner - a sealable jar is a good start Kitchen towel or rag Titanium white oil paint Ivory black oil paint (Further colours will be discussed for purchase going forward) Please enquire at the QPAC art shop to see what items are available for you to purchase in-house.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Wednesdays (10am-12pm) during term time. Release your creativity in this weekly workshop open to all levels of experience, from complete beginners to professional painters. Students are welcome to work on any subject they please in whichever medium they prefer, whether oils, acrylics, watercolours, pastels, charcoal, pencil or mixed media. Anyone just starting out in painting & drawing can seek advice from tutor Anne Bennison, whilst those with more experience are welcome to work at their own pace. The painting studio has plenty of easels and drawing boards. Materials such as paints, paper, pencils and brushes are available at the QPAC art shop.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Thursdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. Explore and develop your creativity as a member of this friendly weekly workshop. Work from reference photographs in your chosen media (e.g. pencil, charcoal, acrylics). The group also do occasional projects to encourage exploration of techniques and development of skills by looking at the work of different artists (e.g. Picasso, Matisse, Fedden, Van Gogh) or through more specific themes such as perspective. Themes are set approximately every 3 weeks and you may work from your own photograph or those provided by the tutor. Suitable for all levels including beginners. Bring your own materials. The painting studio has plenty of easels and drawing boards. Additional materials such as paints, paper and brushes are available to buy from the QPAC art shop. Tutor Amanda Curbishley joined QPAC as a member of this group in 2002 and has gone on to exhibit and sell work at local exhibitions. She wants to share the enjoyment she has from painting and encourage others to develop their skills.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Tuesdays 10am during term time Improve your skills in portraiture with drawing and painting in acrylics. You will be working from a mixture of photographs and live sitters, and exploring materials from charcoal to paint. Come and try our new weekly workshop that will suit all levels, beginners and improvers particularly welcome! ABOUT THE TUTOR John has been drawing and painting for 30 years with West Wycombe Art, alongside a career in kitchen design. WHAT TO BRING Basic drawing materials (charcoal and paper) will be provided, however you may need to buy further materials as you progress and John will be on hand to advise on this. If you have any queries before you come along, please contact John on johneasterling4@gmail.com.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Painting Studio
Monday-Thursday (see below for timings) during term time. Pottery is one of the most popular activities at QPAC, spaces fill up extremely quickly, if you have some experience you may wish to book onto one of our untutored classes. Click here for untutored classes. Tutored classes We run classes throughout the week, giving students access to our fully-equipped studio spaces to learn and develop their skills in ceramics - whether sculpting, working at the wheel, or using hand-building techniques such as coiling. Our tutored drop-in classes are perfect for complete beginners as well as those developing their talents. Our experienced tutors will offer demonstrations, advice and guidance to help you develop your own projects, from the design stage through to the final glazing process. Your workshop fee includes use of our facilities, including clay and a wide variety of tools. If you would like to have your work fired there is an additional charge, calculated based on the weight of the piece. Our tutors will be on hand to assist when working this out. Please be mindful that it's in the nature of working with pottery that it's likely you'll need to book in for several sessions in order to complete a project. Here is a timetable of our regular drop-in workshops: Day / Time Tutor TUE AM – 10am-12.30pm Helen Neighbour (This session is untutored. Newcomers must book onto an alternative tutored session) TUE PM – 7pm-9.30pm NEW Patrick Hayward (Beginners Class, 6-week block bookings only) WED AM – 10am-12.30pm Gill Brown WED PM – 7pm-9.30pm Patrick Hayward THU AM – 10am-12.30pm Jenny Hay THU PM – 1.30pm-4pm NEW Wendy Edmundson (This class is running without Wendy until 30th January. Beginners must book onto a session with a tutor in attendance.) THU PM – 7pm-9.30pm Charlie Butters Click here for untutored classes.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
Access the Queens Park pottery studios for untutored sessions. Ideal for experienced ceramicists looking to work independently on their projects. PLEASE NOTE: Untutored sessions are not suitable for beginners. If you’re a beginner looking to try out pottery but aren’t too sure where to start, please book one of our tutored classes rather than these untutored sessions. What are the facilities? We have two separate adjoining studio rooms, one for making (sculpture and throwing) and the other for glazing. There are five electric potters wheels which may be used on a first come, first served basis. Some tools, mats, molds, rolling pins and batts are provided, along with stoneware clay. In the making room, there are two long, raised communal workbenches with stools, seating 14 - 18 people. We provide designated storage shelves for ongoing projects (due to the communal nature of our rooms work is left at own risk). There is a damp cupboard for storing works in progress to be kept wet. Materials costs Clay is paid for at the point of firing a piece and the cost is calculated by weight. One fee will cover the cost of clay, bisque- and glaze-firing services and glazes. Unused clay or made items not desired to be fired must be prepared for recycling according to the instructions in the making room. For indicative firing times, please consult the Technician. Own clays and glazes If you wish to use any other clays or glazes than those provided by QPAC, it is your responsibility to discuss suitability with the Technician ahead of bringing the item/materials into the centre. When can I attend? Please note that the session timetable applies to term-times; sessions may not be available during school holiday periods. Monday 1pm - 3.30pm & 7pm - 9.30pm Tuesday 2pm - 4.30pm, 4.30pm - 7pm & 7pm - 9.30pm Wednesday 2pm - 4.30pm Friday 10am - 1pm & 1pm - 4.30pm
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
*Please note the course dates often sell out very quickly- if you would like to go on the waiting list, please contact fohteam@queensparkarts.com Come and take your potter's wheel driving test in the this fun and friendly one-day class. This class is ideal for students working at all different levels of ceramics. Whether a first-timer looking to get to grips with clay, or a more experienced potter wanting to explore new shapes and forms (e.g. bowls, bottles, plats, faceting and external decoration), our tutor is here to help! Your course fee includes the cost of firing for two pieces.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Thursdays (4.30-6pm) during term time. A weekly tutor-led workshop designed to inspire and nurture young emerging artists and makers. Students ages 12+ are welcome attend, whether a complete beginner or a practiced hand. You’ll learn how to design and create your very own ceramic works of art, be it a mug, bowl, plate, vase or sculpture – perfect for your portfolio or just for fun! Full guidance is offered to students to help them develop their projects. Your workshop fee includes use of our facilities, including clay and a wide variety of tools. If you would like to have your work fired there is an additional charge, calculated based on the weight of the piece. You tutor will be on hand to assist when working this out.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery & Glaze Studios
Mondays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. An untutored weekly workshop for recorder players keen to perform as part of a group. The recorder is wonderfully fun to play, and this class aims to revive our enjoyment of an easy yet undervalued instrument. Even if you haven’t picked one up for years, come along and enjoy rediscovering your skills in this untutored group.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
One-day class running on Sat 24 May, Fri 18 July & Sat 19 July 2025 10.30am-3.30pm Come to this hands-on workshop and learn how to make your own stained glass panel. You will finish the day with your completed piece ready to take home! All materials are included, please wear closed-toe shoes (not sandals). Carrie will provide a number of her own designs for you to choose from and work with during the workshop, or alternatively, participants are welcome to come with your own design or ideas and Carrie can advise on how to translate them into stained glass. The morning will focus on cutting your glass components and in the afternoon you will solder your work. No prior experience is needed for this workshop. If you have any questions about this workshop, please contact the arts centre on fohteam@queensparkarts.com. **Please read the below if you are booking for the workshops in July (Friday 18th and/or Saturday 19th)** These are day-long standalone workshops booked individually, however you may choose to book and attend both dates.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Mondays (4.30pm-7pm) during term time. This class will show you the simple and basic techniques of Tapestry, and share the enjoyment of creative weaving. You can create an interesting woven tapestry piece of fabricated wall art in a very short time, using just about anything to weave with from wool, wire and fabric to hard things like twigs or leaves. You can experiment with different materials to make the wall art you desire for your home, learning simple aspects of colour theory to help chose the right colours for your project. Once you have developed the basic skills, you can design your own abstract pattern in landscape or portrait. WHAT TO BRING: Most materials can be provided for your first session, however regular attendees should bring the following: -A old picture frame (minus glass) - A4 or larger -A flat piece of wood slightly wider than the frame -String -Knitting wool, wire, fabric, etc to weave with -Plastic Needles -Plastic Fork
Queens Park Arts Centre
Textile Studio
Sessions take place on Sat 17 May 10am - 1pm & Sat 21 Jun 10am - 1pm Join tutor V Hayward and learn how to use a pottery wheel or develop your skills in this beginner-friendly throwing workshop! Spaces are limited so be sure to book in advance.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Pottery Studio
Tuesdays (10am -12:30pm) & Wednesdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. PLEASE NOTE: These sessions are for wood turning at the lathe. If you would like to book a general woodwork session (running on the same dates / times), please click here. What Will I Learn? These sessions aim to improve your ability in working with wood and fulfilling your ambition in creating a product of your choice under the guidance of the tutor. During the sessions you will work on a project of your own choice so that your own level of skill increases and you finish with a completed item. You will be encouraged and instructed in the use of electrical powered hand tools. The room is equipped with a woodturning lathes so there will be an opportunity to learn or to continue some woodturning. During the sessions learners will: - Select materials and tools appropriate to the chosen task. - Show how materials are cut, shaped and formed, to designed tolerances. - Use design briefs to guide design thinking. - Practice skills to complete other projects at home. - Observe health & safety issues concerning woodworking. Is This For Me? These sessions are for those with a general interest in woodwork and who have a project in mind. It is suitable for all levels of ability and will be taught on an individual basis. During the sessions, the tutor will provide small group demonstrations and individual support to ensure that learners can work at their own level and at their own pace. What Do I Need To Bring? Please bring a pencil and project idea(s). These will be discussed and, by the end of your first session, a plan will be drawn up including a cutting list and some idea of the cost. Learners will need to provide their own materials, which can’t be stored at the centre, and brought to each session. The use of different materials will be discussed relative to their cost eg. bookcase made from MDF will be much cheaper to make than one of solid oak. It depends on your choice as to how much you spend. How will I know that my skills have improved? At the start, you will decide (with help from your tutor) what you want to get out of the course. There will be regular opportunities to review your progress and at the end of the course you will have the chance to reflect on what you have learnt and how your skills have improved.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Thursdays (10am-12.30pm) during term time. This untutored weekly workshop is perfect for woodcarvers with enough experience to direct their own learning, offering a chance to work on projects alongside likeminded artists and makers. The group isn’t suited to beginners, however if you’ve had experience of woodcarving before and want to continue the art in a supportive atmosphere then this is the group for you. Students are welcome to use the communal facilities in the QPAC woodwork studio, however must bring their own timber and carving tools. Casual clothes and stout shoes recommended!
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Tuesdays (10am -12:30pm) & Wednesdays (7pm-9.30pm) during term time. PLEASE NOTE: These sessions are for general woodwork only - if you would like to book a session wood turning on the lathe, (running on the same dates / times), please here. What Will I Learn? These sessions aim to improve your ability in working with wood and fulfilling your ambition in creating a product of your choice under the guidance of the tutor. During the sessions you will work on a project of your own choice so that your own level of skill increases and you finish with a completed item. You will be encouraged and instructed in the use of electrical powered hand tools. The room is equipped with a woodturning lathes so there will be an opportunity to learn or to continue some woodturning. During the sessions learners will: - Select materials and tools appropriate to the chosen task. - Show how materials are cut, shaped and formed, to designed tolerances. - Use design briefs to guide design thinking. - Practice skills to complete other projects at home. - Observe health & safety issues concerning woodworking. Is This For Me? These sessions are for those with a general interest in woodwork and who have a project in mind. It is suitable for all levels of ability and will be taught on an individual basis. During the sessions, the tutor will provide small group demonstrations and individual support to ensure that learners can work at their own level and at their own pace. What Do I Need To Bring? Please bring a pencil and project idea(s). These will be discussed and, by the end of your first session, a plan will be drawn up including a cutting list and some idea of the cost. Learners will need to provide their own materials, which can’t be stored at the centre, and brought to each session. The use of different materials will be discussed relative to their cost eg. bookcase made from MDF will be much cheaper to make than one of solid oak. It depends on your choice as to how much you spend. How will I know that my skills have improved? At the start, you will decide (with help from your tutor) what you want to get out of the course. There will be regular opportunities to review your progress and at the end of the course you will have the chance to reflect on what you have learnt and how your skills have improved.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Woodwork Studio
Thursdays 5.30pm-6.30pm, during term time. Click here for term dates. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Mindfulness yoga incorporates the practice of mindfulness within the practice and is conducive for students physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. The class includes warm up, joint loosening, stretching, yoga poses, breathing practices (pranayama) meditation and relaxation. ABOUT THE TUTOR Helena is a yoga teacher trained in classical Hatha yoga, and a minded yoga therapist and teen yoga instructor. She has been teaching yoga since 1998 mainly within NHS settings until she retired in 2015. Since her retirement, Helena has been teaching in various community settings and, for the last two years since lockdown, has been teaching her classes via Zoom. WHAT TO BRING Please bring a yoga mat with you. You may also wish to bring additional cushions for support, and/or a blanket / shawl.
Queens Park Arts Centre
Rehearsal Studio
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