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.

Painting Techniques: A Practical Guide through Time (20-21 Century Art) 24 April to 3 July 2017

20th to 21st Century Art Tutor Anthony Daley Learn the methods and respond to the multiple developments in painting and Continue Reading →

Drawing Portraits in Pastel with Sandy Moffat OBE RSA: Saturday 18th March 2017 – 10am to 5pm

Portraiture - Working with the model at the Essential School of Painting (2) ©Alison Harper

THIS CLASS IN NOW FULL If you would like to be updated on future classes at the Essential School of Painting Continue Reading →

Evening Class: Drawing Portraits with Allan Ramsay: 23 February to 23 March 2017

Every Thursday 6.00pm to 9.00pm join BP National Portrait Award winner Allan Ramsay on this adventure into drawing from the live model Continue Reading →

Evening Class: Painting & Personal Projects with Anthony Daley 22 Feb – 22 Mar 2017

Wednesday Evenings 6pm to 9pm FEE £150 1 PLACE REMAINING     Every wednesday evening, in class  of 6 participants (allows for Continue Reading →

TheESOP Artists in Studio Series: An Audience with Rebecca Salter RA ~ 11 March 2017

The Essential School of Painting presents a rare opportunity to spend part of the day (10.30-13.30) with Rebecca Salter RA  in Continue Reading →