Paintbox School of Art

★★★★★

“Paintbox is an exceptionally good and well-run art school. The tutors are very well organised and enthusiastic with an encouraging and positive attitude towards their students. They are very knowledgeable too and inspire students with insights into and exposure to a wide range of artists. They adopt a variety of approaches when teaching interesting, and sometimes challenging, techniques. They offer many courses of different levels and lengths, including some with artists as guest tutors on weekend workshops and summer courses. I have attended many courses and have always found them enjoyable and worthwhile. For the past 3 years I have attended the Landscape course working en plein air in the beautiful East Lothian countryside. As well as excellent tutors, the school's co-founder and business manager is always obliging and delightful. I now can't imagine life without Paintbox!”

★★★★★

“I have been attending Paintbox for just over a year now and started as a complete beginner with little knowledge (and even less skill). I was quite anxious initially, given my lack of experience, but I was made to feel very welcome. The team are as friendly as they are knowledgeable and talented. They can accommodate a wide range of abilities and the atmosphere in class is fun and supportive - as well as gently challenging. The location is beautiful and I’ve met some lovely liked-minded students. It’s great to learn from each other as well as our tutor, who is eternally patient. Learning techniques is one thing, but just as important is the encouragement to be playful - and not be too hard on ourselves when we don’t produce a masterpiece every week! Art is so absorbing, I find I can truly leave my problems behind during class. Attending Paintbox is truly the highlight of my week and I would recommend it to anyone.”

★★★★★

“Paintbox School of Art is in the lovely Cockenzie House, with its own beautiful gardens and vegetable gardens, and right across from the house is the sea! The Paintbox courses and workshops are indoors and out, making full use of these lovely surroundings. I’ve been going to Paintbox for 3 years now on various courses, and the tuition from Jemma and the team is top-class. The tutors are so full of inspiration, and I always come away feeling so positive and fulfilled. Jemma and Lynsey have created a wonderful place to be yourself, explore and make art!”