AUTUMN 2026 · ADULT ART CLASSES ACROSS SUFFOLK
Learn to Draw and Paint Portraits with Confidence
Join artist and tutor Ed Cooper this autumn for a structured 12-week course exploring proportion, the structure of the head, tone, colour and portrait painting.
Learn through practical demonstrations, guided exercises and individual support in a friendly Suffolk art class, including two sessions working from a live model.
- Beginners welcome
- Six Suffolk venues
- Course Companion included
Real Teaching. Real Students. Real Progress.
Students join my classes with a wide range of experience. Some are returning to art after many years, while others already draw and paint regularly and want stronger foundations.
The teaching is structured, but the work remains individual. Students develop greater confidence in observation, drawing, colour and paint handling without being pushed towards one fixed style.
Teaching adults since 2009
Experienced, practical tuition developed through many years of teaching Suffolk art classes.
Beginners are welcome
Lessons are demonstrated clearly and broken into manageable stages.
Individual guidance
Students receive help appropriate to their experience, interests and current work
Online support included
Four months of Course Companion access helps students practise and catch up between classes.
Work created by students attending Ed Cooper’s Suffolk art classes
A Structured Approach to Portrait Drawing and Painting
This 12-week course will break the subject into a series of practical exercises, demonstrations and longer studies, helping students build their understanding step by step.
Some of the exercises will draw on ideas from Steve Forster’s book Painting Luminous Portraits for Artists, used with the author’s permission.
We will not simply copy finished examples. I will show students how to study from a high-quality instructional book: how to understand the purpose of an exercise, practise it carefully, and then apply the lesson to their own drawings and paintings.
What You Will Learn
Understand the Structure of the Head
Learn how the main forms and planes of the head fit together, and how this underlying structure helps with proportion and likeness.
Develop Tone and Form
Explore how light and shade describe the three-dimensional form of the face through drawing, monochrome studies and painting exercises.
Mix Colour with Greater Confidence
Study warm and cool colour relationships and learn how to mix varied, convincing skin tones without relying on a fixed formula.
Apply the Lessons to Your Own Work
Move from focused exercises into longer portraits, including two sessions working from a live model and the development of a more sustained portrait painting.
Two live-model sessions are included during the term, giving students the opportunity to apply the course lessons directly from observation
Continue Learning Between Classes
Every student attending one of my 12-week Suffolk courses receives four months of Course Companion access through the Ed Cooper Online Studio as part of the course fee.
Course Companion follows the same portrait programme as the weekly classes, with supporting video demonstrations, exercises, handouts, reference images and catch-up material.
Revisit Demonstrations
Watch important techniques and explanations again after class, at your own pace.
Practise Between Sessions
Continue with guided exercises and reference material during the week
Catch Up If You Miss a Class
Review the relevant lesson material and stay connected to the course.
Keep Your Learning Structured
Follow a clear sequence of portrait lessons throughout the term.
Four months included in the course fee — no separate subscription required
Who Are These Classes For?
Friendly, Structured Art Classes for Adult Learners
These classes are designed for adults who want clear teaching, regular practice, and a supportive place to develop their drawing and painting.
Whether you are returning to art after a break, trying to build confidence, or looking for more structure in your practice, the course will give you a clear path to follow.
Beginners Wanting Clear Guidance
If you feel unsure where to start, the classes will guide you step by step through practical exercises, demonstrations, and individual feedback.
Returning Painters
If you have painted before but lost momentum, the weekly structure can help you rebuild confidence and get back into a regular creative rhythm.
Improvers
If you already have some experience, the course will help you strengthen your drawing, colour, tone, composition, and decision-making.
Students Lacking Confidence
If you often feel uncertain about your work, the classes offer a supportive environment where you can ask questions, make progress, and learn without pressure.
People Wanting Regular Practice
If you find it hard to practise on your own, a weekly class gives you time, structure, and accountability.
Artists Wanting More Structure
If you feel scattered or unsure what to work on next, the course gives you a clear theme, guided exercises, and a path through the term.
Meet Ed
Artist, teacher, and lifelong learner
I’m Ed Cooper, a professional artist and art teacher based in Suffolk. Since 2009, I have helped adults of all abilities develop their drawing and painting through clear demonstrations, practical exercises, and individual guidance.
I believe artistic skill grows through good teaching and regular practice. My aim is to create friendly, structured classes where students can build confidence, understand the fundamentals, and make steady progress.
Choose Your Suffolk Art Class
Select the location and time that suits you best. Each weekly class forms part of a structured 12-week course
Witnesham
Witnesham Village Hall
Tuesday morning 9:30am – 12:30pm
Daytime class · 3 hours each
12-week Portrait Drawing and Painting Course
Felixstowe
Convent of Jesus and Mary, Orwell Rd Tuesday afternoon · 2:00pm–5:00pm
12-week Portrait Drawing and Painting Course
Daytime class · 3 hours each week
Melton
Burness Parish Rooms
Wednesday morning 9:30am – 12:30pm
12-week Portrait Drawing and Painting Course
Daytime class · 3 hours each week
Martlesham
Martlesham Community Center Wednesday evening 6:30pm–8:30pm
12-week Portrait Drawing and Painting Course
Evening class · 2 hours each week
Needham Market
Ringshall Village Hall – Thursday morning · 9:30am–12:30pm
12-week Portrait Drawing and Painting Course
Daytime class · 3 hours each week
Monks Eleigh
Monks Eleigh Village Hall – Thursday afternoon · 2:00pm–5:00pm
12-week Portrait Painting Course
Daytime class · 3 hours each week
Materials You Will Need
Students bring their own drawing and painting materials. The exact requirements vary slightly depending on the subject of each course.
You can view the general materials guide, current-term additions and recommendations for oils and acrylics on the full materials page.
FAQ
Do I need any previous experience?
No. The classes are suitable for complete beginners, returning artists, and more experienced students. Projects are explained clearly, and you can work at a level that suits you.
What materials will I need?
Some terms require a few additional items. I try to keep the list practical and affordable, and you do not need to buy everything at once:
What happens during a typical class?
Classes usually include a demonstration or explanation, a focused exercise or project, and time for individual guidance while you work.
Will everyone be working on the same project?
The course follows a shared theme and structure, but students are encouraged to work at their own pace and develop their own ideas as their confidence grows
What happens if I miss a class?
Where possible, course materials and supporting resources will help you catch up. Face-to-face students also receive access to the Course Companion during the term. If you can’t attend one week you can swap to another venue, just let me know.
How do I book?
Choose your preferred class location, complete your booking online, and you will receive confirmation and further information before the course begins.
Can I join online instead?
Yes. The Ed Cooper Online Studio offers Course Companion and Guided Studio options for students who want to learn from home or receive additional support.
Ready to Develop Your Portrait Skills?
Join a friendly, structured 12-week course and learn to approach portrait drawing and painting with greater confidence, understanding and independence.