Space For Creativity - Mentoring For Artists Summer School 2026

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Course code: P70H

Immersive summer school offering experienced painters a space to develop their practice

when: From 20 Jul 2026 to 24 Jul 2026
Full time - all week 10:00-16:00 one week
Tutor: Laurel Smart

where

Stoke Lodge

Stoke Lodge Centre, Shirehampton Road
Stoke Bishop
Bristol
BS9 1BN

fees

full fee for this course £249.00, concession fee £150.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

Focused one-to-one support for artists in acrylics, watercolours, and drawing. Immersive 4-day summer school offering creative space and individual tutor support, ideal for those wanting to focus on their work, overcome creative hurdles, or develop a looser style. Suitable for experienced, independent artists at any stage of their journey. For more information, contact: <a href="mailto:laurel.smart@blueyonder.co.uk" style="color:#467886; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank">laurel.smart@blueyonder.co.uk</a>.

What can students expect?

A unique, practical summer school offering both physical and creative space to develop your painting skills. Laurel, an accomplished artist and mentor, helps artists examine their methodology and determine what will aid their artistic development. Sometimes, this requires dedicated time, supportive feedback, and a sympathetic environment. Other times, it may need the courage to make a creative leap. Laurel excels at identifying what is important to you, providing support to help you set your own goals, and being that 'critical friend' who assists you in achieving them. This course is suitable for practising artists and experienced painters. (NO OILS, please). Please email Laurel in advance to discuss your planned work. She can provide advice and recommendations to help you make the best use of the workshop time. This preparation is also very helpful for Laurel.

Late starters allowed?

No. There is a group session on Monday that all learners need to attend.

Previous experience required?

Yes. Learners must be experienced and confident working independently in their chosen medium. If trying a new medium, they should be able to do so independently with guidance from the tutor.

What is the progression route?

This course is a stand-alone course; however, many learners also attend the Space For Creativity. Mentoring For Artists monthly workshops. Laurel will get to know your needs and help you develop your practice. If you are building a portfolio for college application Laurel will be able to support you.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners bring their own materials, which should be those they typically use. (NO OILS please). A nominal studio fee applies if using the tutor's materials-for example if using something they do not routinely work with.

Work set between sessions?

N/A

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>Examples of your work</li>
<li>The painting you want to work on</li>
<li>All materials</li>
<li>Tablecloths for two tables</li>
</ul>

Easels and drawing boards are provided.

Teaching method/style?

Laurel will provide personalised advice and focused 1:1 sessions to help learners identify their needs and determine their required support. Learners can work uninterrupted or receive support to overcome creative hurdles.

Equipment Required

See list above. In addition

<ul>
<li>Bring all other materials. Discuss with Laurel before the summer school</li>
<li>Packed lunch</li>
</ul>

Refunds and cancellations

Course Cancellations by Us

<ul>
<li>If we cancel your course, your fees will be refunded in full.</li>
<li>We cannot reimburse the cost of any materials you may have purchased. </li>
</ul>

Cancellations by You

<ul>
<li>If you cancel 7 days or more before the course start date: Refund issued minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>If you cancel less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: No refund will be issued. </li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>Transfers must be requested at least 7 days before the course start date.</li>
<li>A 10% transfer fee applies.</li>
<li>Transfers due to our cancellation of your original course are free of charge. </li>
</ul>

Illness and Absence

<ul>
<li>No refunds are available for non-attendance due to sickness or ill health. </li>
</ul>

How Refunds Are Issued

Refunds are returned via the original payment method:

<ul>
<li>Booked online or by phone - Refund to the card used. </li>
<li>Paid in person at Stoke Lodge - Please bring your payment card to the office. </li>
</ul>

Online Course Access

<ul>
<li>Learners are responsible for ensuring they have suitable internet access and equipment before the course begins.</li>
<li>No refunds will be issued due to technical issues with a learner’s own internet or computer.</li>
</ul>