Over the winter, I was lucky enough to spend some time in the  British Virgin Islands , visiting my family. As well as enjoying the sunshine and slower pace of life, I took the chance to do something I don’t often get the time to do properly at home — sit and paint portraits just for the joy of it. I worked in watercolour, painting a couple of portrait studies of my grandchildren from life and from photos taken while I was there. There’s something really special about paintin

During a recent holiday to Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, I had the great joy of spending time with my daughter and her family — but I also had the unexpected pleasure of teaching art in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. While on the island, I was invited to teach a beginner’s drawing class at Creative Waves , a vibrant and welcoming art hub based in Tortola. From the moment I arrived, I knew this was a special place — full of creativity, curiosity and a

Learning art online has transformed the way people across the UK develop their creative skills. At Joan Lawson Art , online learning isn’t about rushed tutorials or generic instruction — it’s about thoughtful, structured teaching, built on decades of real studio experience and a genuine love of helping others grow creatively. Whether you’re returning to painting after years away, developing confidence as a beginner, or looking to refine your technique, Joan Lawson Art offers

After my last studio update, I thought it might be nice to follow up with some autumn pastel tips.

Starting your painting journey can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach and simple techniques, anyone can begin creating beautiful artwork. This guide will introduce you to easy painting methods that help build confidence and skills. Whether you want to paint for relaxation, decoration, or as a new hobby, these tips will set you on the right path. Easy and Simple Painting Methods to Try First When you’re new to painting, it’s best to start wit

A Colourful Journey with Pastels There’s been a wonderful buzz in the studio lately as my students and I have been diving into the world of pastels. The tables have been alive with colour. Some artists explore bold, bright backgrounds. Others quietly layer soft tones to bring their still lifes and landscapes to life. I’ve loved seeing the variety of inspiration. From delicate arrangements worked up from black and white reference photos to vibrant studies of scenes captured at

Creating realistic art that captures the true essence of animals is a rewarding challenge for artists. Whether you are painting a...

Whether you're completely new to drawing or just looking to build confidence, a few simple tricks can make a big difference in how you...

Nick and I, in the wonderful Arran Art Gallery, Whiting Bay A Trip to Arran—and a Catch-Up with an Old Friend I was over on the beautiful...

Whether you're painting in oils, acrylics or watercolours, choosing the right brush can make a huge difference. The right brush can help...

I'm feeling very lucky to be able to grab a few days in the sun, so we’ve come to Rhodes. It’s a great time to be here — not too hot, nor...

Looking for a custom artwork that’s personal, meaningful, and beautifully made? I offer art commissions including portrait paintings, pet portraits, and bespoke pieces in a range of styles and mediums.

New online art courses launching on Joanlawsonart.com