Frequently asked questions

Our courses are for adults and students aged fourteen years and above. For new and established artists to develop their painting skills under Ellen's tutelage.

We generally have up to 7x places available per course or class. Your place in the course will be confirmed after we receive your course fees.

The cost of our art classes and courses is available on our website. Course fees can be paid via PayPal, Stripe, credit card, or direct bank deposit. Please let us know if you require any assistance when enrolling online.

You can enrol online by filling out your details on our website and paying the course fee. Your place in the course will be confirmed after we receive your course fees.

We keep our classes small in order to give you the individual attention you deserve. Accordingly, we cannot provide refunds if you can no longer attend. Please consider your booking carefully before enrolling.

When you book into a class you are required to attend the class for your chosen time. If you are unable to attend your scheduled class and if you advise us prior to your scheduled class time, subject to availability, you are allowed to reschedule up to 3x classes.

While we do not encourage you to bring your own meals, we will provide light refreshments such as milk, coffee, tea, and water.

If you miss a class, you can join the next class and fees will not be deducted for the missed class. You are allowed to reschedule up to three classes, as long as notice is provided.

Our course instructions/guides set out what materials you will need to bring to a class, which includes a beginner’s painting kit that can be purchased on our website. Please wear suitable attire (i.e., you may get paint on your shoes or clothing), so we recommend an apron.

You consent to us taking photographs of your participation in class or of any artwork you create. You also consent to us publishing those photos on our website and social media pages, or for other advertising and publicity purposes. If you do not want you or your artwork to be photographed, please let us know at the beginning of the course.

We are not responsible for any lost or damaged artwork belonging to students. You are responsible for collecting your artwork at the end of the course. We may remove or dispose of any uncollected artwork if you fail to collect it, without any liability to you.

If you have any concerns or comments, please let us know. You can also leave feedback via the Contact Us (/contact)section on our website. We will respond as soon as practicable.

To the extent permitted by law, we are not liable to you for any loss, damage, or injury you may suffer, howsoever incurred, in connection with your participation in a course. We exclude all implied terms from this contract. Nothing in these terms excludes any rights at law that we are not permitted to exclude (non-excludable rights). These terms are subject to any non-excludable rights.

Personalised instruction improves oil painting skills by tailoring the learning experience to the individual's current abilities, goals, and learning style. 1. Targeted Feedback: Instructors can give specific, constructive feedback on the student's technique, colour mixing, brushwork, and composition, helping them correct mistakes and refine their skills more effectively. 2. Customised Pace: Students learn at their own pace, allowing them to spend more time mastering fundamentals or advanced techniques as needed. 3. Focus on Individual Interests: Personalised instruction can focus on the student's preferred subjects or styles, making the learning process more engaging and relevant. 4. Motivation and Encouragement: One-on-one guidance often provides motivational support and confidence-building, encouraging students to experiment and take creative risks. 5. Problem-Solving: Instructors can help troubleshoot specific challenges the student encounters with oil paints, such as drying times, layering, or glazing techniques. In a nutshell, personalised instruction creates a supportive environment that accelerates skill development and helps artists achieve their unique artistic vision.

1. Start Simple: Begin with basic subjects like simple shapes, fruits, or landscapes. This reduces complexity and helps you focus on technique. 2. Learn the Basics: Understand fundamental concepts such as colour mixing, brush techniques, and layering. Watching tutorials or taking a beginner class can be very helpful. 3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps improve your skills and builds familiarity with the medium. 4. Use Quality Materials: Good brushes, paints, and canvases make a difference and can make the painting process more enjoyable. 5. Don’t Fear Mistakes: Mistakes are part of learning. Oil paints are forgiving, you can paint over errors or blend them into your work. 6. Experiment: Try different styles, techniques, and subjects to find what you enjoy and to build versatility. 7. Seek Feedback: Join art groups or online communities where you can share your work and get constructive feedback. Ellen Michel offers small group classes and individual sessions in Heidelberg VIC, Australia. 8. Be Patient: Oil painting takes time to master. Celebrate small improvements and enjoy the process.

If you're interested in oil painting workshops in Australia, there are many options across different states and cities, catering to all skill levels. In Heidelberg, Victoria, Ellen Michel offers package based oil painting programmes to develop your skills whatever level you are starting at.