Art classes
Art Workshops
Start your journey with art as I guide you through essential painting techniques. Carefully prepared step-by-step lessons are designed to challenge and inspire, providing you with the opportunity to practice and refine your skills.
My workshops are open to all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned artists. I’ll be sharing my techniques and offering plenty of advice to help you grow your skills. My step-by-step lessons are easy to follow, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the workshops. Over the year we’ll explore a variety of exciting topics, from beautiful flowers and fruits to animals, birds and landscapes – something for everyone. My goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone can explore the joy of painting.
Dates and times
Watercolour Painting workshop – £15
– every Wednesday, 10:30am – 1:30pm (Group 1) (except 2nd April, 30th April, 21st May)
– every Thursday, 5:30pm – 8:30pm (Group 2) (except 3rd April)
– every Saturday 10:00am – 1:00pm (except 5th Apr, 19th Apr, 17th May, 31st May)
Drawing workshop – £15
Dates: 19th April (Human figure), 17th May (Portrait), 31st May (Hands)
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)
Acrylic Painting workshop – £20
Dates: 2nd May (Peony), 6th June (Rose)
Time: 10:30am – 1:30pm (Friday)
Materials
All required materials for lessons are supplied. Please remember to bring your own apron or wear clothes which you do not mind to stain.
Refreshments
Wednesdays and Thursdays: Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits.
Saturdays: Tea and coffee available to purchase at the gallery.
Venues
Wed and Thu: Albert Edward Hall Community Centre, Legerton Drive, Clacton-on-Sea, CO16 8BW
Free parking by the hall.
Saturdays: The Art Gallery, 5 Central Parade, Rosemary Road, Clacton on Sea, CO15 1TF
Nearest car park is a short walk away – High Street Car Park Clacton, Carnarvon Road, CO15 6QE
Booking
As space is limited to just 11 spots per workshop, please be sure to book in advance.
About
Your tutor
My name is Mariya McAllister and I am a professional artist and art teacher based in Clacton on Sea.
I have been painting and drawing since very young age. I love to paint with acrylics and watercolours. Acrylics allow me to create almost hyper realistic paintings, while watercolours allow me to experiment with colour and texture. My favourite topics so far are flowers, fruits, landscapes, animals and birds.
Nature is an endless source of inspiration for me. I find beauty everywhere I look. Flowers always fascinated me and my dream was to be able to capture with great detail their beauty.
Through my work I hope to share my love of nature with you and bring joy into your life. I believe that art possesses a great power which helps unlock creativity, self-expression, and inner peace.
I am a member of Colchester Art Society, Ipswich Art society and Holland Art Society. My paintings have been exhibited at the Open Summer Exhibition in The Minories (2024) and numerous group exhibitions. I am a finalist of Artists of the Year 2024 competition. At the moment I am preparing for my upcoming solo exhibition in Level Best Gallery in Colchester (April 2025).
I hold an MA in Art Education and MSc in Graphic Design and Multimedia.
Solo Exhibition
Secret Garden
Would you like to visit my Solo Exhibition in Colchester? Everyone is welcome!
2nd to 29th of April 2025
Monday to Friday 8:30-16:00
Level Best Art Gallery, 26 St Johns Street, Colchester, Essex CO2 7HB
Step into a world of natural beauty as local artist Mariya McAllister shares her “Secret Garden” – a collection of stunning acrylic and watercolour paintings that bring flowers and fruits to life. Through careful attention to detail and vibrant colours, these works invite you to experience the joy and peace found in nature’s wonders.
During recent challenging times, including the war in Ukraine, Mariya found peace and healing in her garden. The hours spent tending to plants not only helped ease her mind but also inspired her to follow her heart as a full-time artist and art teacher.
“Secret Garden” is more than an exhibition – it’s an invitation to slow down, connect with nature, and perhaps find your own moment of peace among the paintings. Join us this April at Level Best Art Gallery to experience these remarkable works that celebrate the extraordinary beauty of the natural world.
Upcoming events
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