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.

ONLINE: The Super-power of a sketch book with Guy Allott: 7th May to 16th Jul 2020 – Thursday Evenings 6-9pm

The aim of this course is to develop the skills required to produce sketchbooks which are an inspiration, and which contain all the nuts and bolts of experimentation. A sketchbook – like life – should reflect the life and times of the artist, including the mishaps and the triumphs. They should be both revealing and indecipherable, ultimately assisting the artist in mastering their creativity. Continue Reading →

2019 ESOP End of Year Shows ‘Art Matters Part 1 & 2’

This year the Essential School of Painting is holding two End of Year Exhibitions… Art Matters Part 1 & 2
The shows are the culmination of the work done by 40 of our artist-students through the academic year starting October 2018.
All are welcome. Continue Reading →

Woodcut Workshop Jan 18 to Mar 1, 2019

Fridays 10.30 to 1.30pm (Half term 22 Feb) Limited to 6 participants – book now to avoid disappointment. Tutor: Guy Continue Reading →