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.

The Big Painting Challenge on BBC One

The Big Painting Challenge on BBC ONE, Sunday, February 22nd, 2015. The Big Painting Challenge; Alison Harper is the Art Continue Reading →

On Alison Harper and her Christmas Sale/ Exhibition, November 22nd & 23rd, 2014

On Alison Harper and her Christmas Sale/ Exhibition By JD St. Claire (November 23rd, 2014) “It’s like an exhibition of Continue Reading →

Student Gallery: Expressive Portraits with Alison Harper, November 1st & 2nd, 2014

After a marvellous weekend where the students practised expressive ‘blind’ drawing, quick portrait drawing and painting on Saturday and then finishing off on Continue Reading →