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Beginners Art Courses at Kent Adult Education

Discover Your Creative Potential: A Guide to Beginners Art Courses in Kent

Art is more than just a hobby - it's a powerful form of self-expression, a pathway to personal growth and a source of joy and wellbeing. At Kent Adult Education, our Beginners Art courses are designed to help adults of all backgrounds take their first steps into the world of creativity. Whether you've never picked up a paintbrush or haven't drawn since school, our courses offer a welcoming, supportive environment to explore your artistic side.

This guide will walk you through the different types of beginners art courses available, the benefits of learning art as an adult and how Kent Adult Education makes it easy to start your creative journey.

Beginners Art (1)

Why Join a Beginners Art Course?

Many adults hesitate to enrol in art classes because they feel they lack talent, experience or time. But the truth is you don't need to be an artist to enjoy making art. Our courses are designed to break down those barriers - subtly and supportively - so you can focus on learning, growing and enjoying the process.

Here's what you can gain from joining a beginners Art course:

  • Rediscover Creativity Many people believe they're "not creative" simply because they haven't had the chance to explore their artistic side. Our courses help you reconnect with your imagination and discover new ways to express yourself.
  • Boost Mental Wellbeing Engaging in creative activities has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Learners often report feeling more relaxed, focused and confident after just a few sessions.
  • Connect with Others Whether online or in person, our classes foster a sense of community. You'll meet like-minded people, share ideas and support each other's progress.
  • Learn Practical Skills From drawing and painting to working with acrylics, you'll gain hands-on experience with materials and techniques that you can continue to develop.
  • Explore New Opportunities For some, a beginners course is the first step toward a new career or further education in the arts. We offer progression pathways to help you grow.
Browse our Beginners Arts courses
Beginners Painting (2)

What Are Beginners Art Courses?

Kent Adult Education offers a variety of entry level Art courses. These include:

  • First Steps Arts courses
  • Drawing and Painting for Beginners
  • Photography for Beginners
  • Online Live Art Courses

And more.

Each course is designed for adults who are new to art or returning after a long break. You don't need any prior experience - just curiosity and a willingness to try something new.

Browse our Beginners Arts courses
Person using a pencil to draw

Beginners Drawing & Painting Courses

Kent Adult Education's Beginners Drawing & Painting courses cover the essential skills needed to start drawing and painting with confidence. You'll explore:

  • How to use pencils, charcoal, acrylics and watercolours
  • Techniques in shading, perspective and proportion
  • Colour theory and mixing
  • Composition and layout
  • Observational drawing and expressive mark-making

These foundational skills are taught through hands-on projects and guided exercises, allowing you to build your abilities while enjoying the creative process.

Browse our Drawing & Painting courses
Close up image of a digital camera

Beginners Photography Courses

Our beginners Photography courses are perfect for those new to photography. You'll learn how to use your camera's manual controls, understand exposure and develop your eye for composition. It's a great starting point for anyone who wants to take better photos and explore photography as a creative outlet.

These courses are hands-on and practical, giving you the confidence to use your camera creatively and effectively.

Browse our Photography courses
Rolling paint

Beginners Printmaking & Etching Courses

Printmaking and etching are timeless art forms that combine creativity, craftsmanship and experimentation. Whether you're drawn to the bold lines of lino printing or the delicate detail of dry point etching, Kent Adult Education offers a range of beginners Printmaking and Etching courses designed to help adults explore these expressive techniques in a supportive and inspiring environment.

If you've ever wanted to create your own original prints but didn't know where to start, these courses are the perfect introduction.

Browse our Printmaking & Etching courses
Adults smiling and painting

Breaking Down Barriers to Learning

We understand that returning to education as an adult can feel intimidating. That's why our courses are designed to be:

Beginner-Friendly - No prior experience required

Supportive - Learn in a relaxed, encouraging environment

Flexible - Choose from online or in-person formats

Affordable - Competitive pricing with concessions available (subject to eligibility)

Progression-Focused - Opportunities to move on to improver or career-focused courses

Our goal is to make art education accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience.

Person painting using oil paints

How Art Supports Wellbeing

Art isn't just about making beautiful things - it's about expressing yourself, processing emotions and finding joy in the moment. Our learners often report:

  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Improved focus and mindfulness
  • Boosted self-esteem through creative achievement
  • A sense of belonging and community

These benefits are especially important for adults balancing work, family and personal responsibilities. Art offers a space to slow down, reflect and reconnect with yourself.

Working In Art (1)

Progression Pathways: Where Can Beginners Art Courses Lead You?

Once you've completed a beginners course, you can continue your journey with:

Improver Courses

Build on your skills with more advanced techniques and projects. These courses help you develop your unique artistic voice.

Further Education

Many learners use their experience with Kent Adult Education as a stepping stone to college or university-level art programmes or to enrol on our Work Skills and Careers Arts Courses.

Creative Careers

Some learners go on to freelance as artists, illustrators or designers. Others find work in galleries, community arts or education. Our Work Skills & Careers courses can help you gain the confidence and skills needed to pursue these paths.

Group of people standing together smiling

Who Are These Courses For?

Our Beginners Art courses are perfect for:

  • Adults who want to explore creativity for personal enjoyment
  • People returning to art after a long break
  • Those looking to improve mental wellbeing through creative expression
  • Individuals considering a career change into the arts
  • Anyone who simply wants to try something new

You don't need to be "good at art" - you just need to be open to learning.

Explore Beginners Art Courses

Take the First Step Today

Art has the power to transform lives. It helps us express ourselves, connect with others and discover new possibilities. At Kent Adult Education, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to explore their creativity - and our beginners Art courses are the perfect place to start. Whether you're reigniting a passion, improving your mental health or starting a new chapter, we're here to support you every step of the way. Explore and enrol in Beginners Art courses today.