About Andrew Wamae

Andrew Wamae is the Director and co-founder of the Essential School of Painting (ESOP). He has a deeply held belief in the power of art to transform lives and society, and a particular interest in exploring new models for art education beyond school; championing the twin ideals of excellence and affordability in a highly pressurised sector when university fees are soaring and student/ tutor contact time is at an all time low. Andrew is particularly keen to ensure that the visual arts continue to be supported and thrive well. A creative, innovative and visionary professional, Andrew, in conjunction with his co-founder Alison Harper, has transformed the Essential School of Painting from humble beginnings to an established institution holding from one-day to year-long courses and workshops for all levels of experience; from beginners to postgraduate and professional artists. He has managed to enlist the support of a long list of celebrated artists from multiple fields in the creative industry to teach or lecture at the school or in their studios.

ESOP Yearlong Courses 2025-26

We offer a range of in-studio and online courses as part of our yearlong programmes, each taught by highly experienced, professional practising artists. Continue Reading →

APPLICATIONS OPEN for The ESOP Advanced Painting Course 2025-27 with full time studio & Mon – Wed Tutor time

The ESOP Advanced Painting Course is a full-time, two-year, MA-level programme. Continue Reading →

Exhibition Glasgow Girls ‘Resist Much, Obey Little’ 17 – 27 Nov 2023

Resist much, obey little is an exhibition of three painters namely Rosemary Beaton, Lesley Burr and Alison Harper. Continue Reading →

Studio course: The Painting Year II Wednesdays: 4 Oct 2023 to 26 June 2024

The Painting Year II is a practical course for those looking to advance their practice, develop their skills and content whilst being guided by experienced and celebrated painters. Continue Reading →

Studio course – Oil Painting for beginners with Alison Harper: Wednesday Evening 19 Apr to 28 Jun 2023 (6-9pm)

Come and learn step by step approaches to oil painting. We will cover materials and methods of oil painting including supports and surfaces, brushes and paint mediums… Continue Reading →