Fine Art Short Courses
Our range of fine art short courses offer you the chance to learn new skills around your commitments and enhance your practical abilities and knowledge of the arts.
You can join us at UAL's world-renowned colleges, Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Arts and study at the heart of London’s vibrant art scene, with inspiration from world-class galleries, museums, and cultural landmarks.
Explore our Autumn term evening classes and weekend courses, or study online from the comfort of your own space and get the same, high quality learning experience at a time that suits you or on-demand.
Alternatively study with us during our Winter, Spring or Summer Schools. Each school offers a unique experience of studying at UAL, with an extended Winter School for 25/26 this festive season.
UAL Short Courses are suitable for every level, all designed with appropriate class sizes, so tutors can help each individual improve their knowledge and get to the next level.
Our courses offer the opportunity to:
- Learn from practicing artists and industry professionals.
- Gain practical skills through studio-based sessions that encourage creativity and experimentation.
- Create a strong body of work to enhance your portfolio
- Friendly tutor feedback and helpful critiques to guide your progress
- Supportive group sessions to share ideas and get fresh perspectives
Featured short courses
Life Drawing Master Class Short Course
£430
Learn to draw the human head, expressive hands, and believable feet. This class provides the tools to enhance your drawing skills in portraiture and detailed extremities.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 25 October 2025 to 26 October 2025
- Schedule - Saturday and Sunday
Chelsea Drawing and Painting Short Course
£700
Develop drawing and painting skills. Explore colour, composition, and observation. Experiment with painting, drawing, and collage.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 15 December 2025 to 19 December 2025
- Schedule - Monday to Friday
Abstract Painting for Beginners Short Course
£590
Explore fundamental approaches to making abstract art in this 5-week evening course at Central Saint Martins. Develop understanding of colour, gesture, scale, form, shape, and line through talks and practical exercises.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 5 November 2025 to 3 December 2025
- Schedule - Wednesdays
Art Theory Introduction to Aesthetics Online Short Course
£430
Examine the theory of aesthetics, considering philosophical and thought-provoking concepts. This course offers a fresh perspective on art.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 24 January 2026 to 14 February 2026
- Schedule - Saturdays
Anatomical Drawing Short Course
£470
Anatomical drawing is a core skill in life drawing and gaining a classical understanding of the human form and how it can be captured and depicted in various postures and positions.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 6 November 2025 to 4 December 2025
- Schedule - Thursdays
Landscape Oil Painting Short Course
£750
Capture landscapes in oil. Learn techniques for painting landscapes, from composition to colour mixing.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 3 August 2026 to 7 August 2026
- Schedule - Monday to Friday
Beginners Drawing Short Course
£680
Develop your drawing fundamentals. Experiment with tools and techniques. This course focuses on individual development and essential drawing skills.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 17 January 2026 to 14 February 2026
- Schedule - Saturdays
Read student experiences
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Image: Two portrait paintings by Atul Vohora, UAL Short Courses Tutor
Course feature: Portrait Painting
From anatomical drawing to colour and composition, our Portrait Painting Short Course is designed to teach you everything you need to know about this exciting art form. We caught up with tutor Atul Vohora to find out more.
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10 essential painting techniques for artists
Experimenting with different painting techniques is a great way to find your voice as an artist. In this guide we look at 10 essential painting techniques for artists.
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What to draw as a beginner
This guide offers some practical tips on how to build your confidence and improve your drawing skills as a beginner using a few quick exercises.
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