Acrylic painting workshop 'Robin' in Colchester

During this workshop you are going to paint a robin under professional guidance and gain confidence in painting with acrylics.
Whether you’re a beginner seeking to explore the basics or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, my workshop offers a comprehensive learning experience.

Why acrylics?
Acrylics can be used on a variety of surfaces, from canvas and paper to wood and fabric, allowing you to experiment and create diverse artworks. Unlike oil paints, acrylics dry quickly, enabling you to build layers and make changes to your artwork without long waiting times. Water-based and easy to clean, acrylics make the artistic process enjoyable and hassle-free.

Foundations of acrylic painting
Master fundamental techniques such as blending, layering, and texture creation to bring your paintings to life. Understand the principles of colour mixing and learn to create harmonious palettes.

No experience required
This workshop is open to all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned artists looking to refine their skills. My goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone can explore the joy of painting. My step-by-step lessons are easy to follow, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the workshops.

Personalised feedback and support
Training aims to help you progress artistically and increase your confidence in a supportive environment.

Materials and tools
All required materials and tools for this workshop are supplied: table easel, professional quality paints, brushes, prepared canvas 20.3 x 20.3 cm (with outlines). Please bring your own apron or wear the clothes you do not mind to get stained.

Refreshments
Available to purchase at the onsite café.

Parking
Free parking by the church.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

About your tutor

My name is Mariya McAllister and I am a professional artist and tutor based in Clacton on Sea.

I have been painting and drawing since very young age. I love to paint with acrylics and watercolours. Acrylics allow me to create almost hyper realistic paintings, while watercolours allow me to experiment with colour and texture. My favourite topics so far are flowers, fruits, landscapes, animals and birds.

Nature is an endless source of inspiration for me. I find beauty everywhere I look. Flowers always fascinated me and my dream was to be able to capture with great detail their beauty.

Through my work I hope to share my love of nature with you and bring joy into your life. I believe that art possesses a great power which helps unlock creativity, self-expression, and inner peace.

I am a member of Colchester Art Society, Ipswich Art Society, Holland Art Society and Frinton Art Society. My paintings have been exhibited at the 61st Essex Open (2025), ING Discerning eye (2025), RBA Annual Exhibition (2025), Open Summer Exhibition at The Minories (2024) and numerous group exhibitions. I am a finalist of Artists of the Year 2024 and 2025 competition organised by SAA.

I hold an MA in Art Education and MSc in Graphic Design and Multimedia.