About The Essential School Of Painting

The Essential School of Painting (ESOP) is an alternative art school based in Wood Green, London, specialising in painting and drawing classes taught by leading contemporary artists. The ESOP offers exciting, intellectually rigorous courses with the intention of advancing painting. Classes are available for all levels of experience.

Advanced Abstraction Year  6 Oct 2024 to 13 July 2025 – 10am to 5pm

Ideal for experienced abstract painters looking to refresh or reboot their painting practice. Continue Reading →

Approaches to Abstraction with Johanna Melvin: (Alternate Sundays) 13 Oct 2024 to 06 July 2025 (10.00-5.00pm)

Join the fortnightly painting course focused on abstract art led by Johanna Melvin. The course covers key painting techniques and encourages both new and experienced artists. Continue Reading →

Studio course: The Painting Year II Tuesdays: 1st Oct 2024 to 1st July 2025 (10-5pm)

ONE PLACE REMAINING: The Painting Year 2 art class offers a practical course tailored for individuals aiming to enhance their skills and content under the guidance of experienced painters. Continue Reading →

ONLINE: Advanced Painting Personal Projects with Adrian Wiszniewski RSA and Rosanna Dean – Mondays 30 Sept 2024 to 7 July 2025

This online course is designed to foster your creative growth within a supportive community. Continue Reading →

APPLICATIONS OPEN for The ESOP Advanced Painting Course 2024-26 with full time studio & Mon – Wed Tutor time

This 2 year course starts on 23rd September 2024 to 27th June 2026. The course comes with a studio that is accessible throughout the two year including the summer of 2025. Continue Reading →

Painting People The Figure and Portrait: Thursdays 18 April to 27 Jun 2024

This course aims to explore the elements of portraiture and figure painting and drawing in both systematic and creative ways. Continue Reading →

ONLINE: Contemporary Fine Art Practice – 19 April to 28 Jun 2024

The Contemporary Fine Art course is aimed at a broad range of artists and levels of experience and seeks to develop a community where practical and theoretical skills can be explored and established with emphases on making, presenting, talking and thinking about art. Continue Reading →

Studio course: The Painting Year II Tuesdays: 16 April to 25 Jun 2024 (10-5pm)

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 →