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A message from the Director
For the past 17 years, Art Est Art School has been my passion and pride. Opening the school in 2008 was one of the most rewarding and fulfilling decisions I have ever made.
Over these years, Art Est has grown to become so much more than an art school—it has been a space where creativity and community thrived. I feel incredibly fortunate to have shared this space with so many tutors, students, and an extraordinary community of art lovers. Together, we’ve built something really special.
Like many in the arts, we’ve faced hurdles in recent years. The combined challenges of reduced consumer spending and rising costs have made it financially unsustainable, despite the resilience and dedication of everyone involved.
After much reflection, I have come to the difficult decision that after our Summer workshops, Art Est will be closing its doors.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our tutors, whose talent and passion have been at the heart of everything we do, and to the thousands of students who have trusted us to guide their creative paths. You’ve inspired me every step of the way.
I am enormously proud of what we’ve achieved together. From the countless workshops, term classes, and masterclasses we’ve hosted, to exhibitions by our tutors and students, as well as WOOF! and being the presenting partner of the GreenWay Art Prize, Art Est has always been about nurturing creativity and connection. We’ve supported local schools and community initiatives, adapted through the challenges of COVID-19, and celebrated the joy of art in so many ways.
We will be selling the equipment, furniture, books, unclaimed ceramics, and art materials. If there is anything you are interested in buying, please let us know.
Thank you for being part of this incredible art life. I hope to continue working in the creative industries and maintain the wonderful friendships I have made through Art Est.
With best wishes,
Jennifer McNamara,
Founder & Director
Art Est Art School.
FAQs
Why is Art Est Art School closing?
After 17 incredible years of success, Art Est Art School will soon be closing its doors. Art Est Art School has succumbed to the pressures that have impacted many galleries, art schools and other creative businesses in the past couple of years. The business has struggled since we relocated due to higher costs, including overheads, materials etc, and a softening economy making it harder to fill and maintain classes. Many people have made sacrifices to support Art Est, including our tutors, but the headwinds of reduced consumer spending and rising costs mean it is no longer sustainable.
When are the last classes?
There will be no classes after 2 February 2025
Can I buy any of the equipment or art supplies?
Absolutely! We will be selling the equipment, furniture, books, unclaimed ceramics, art materials and souvenir aprons. If there is anything you are interested in buying, please email or phone 95641519.
How can I contact my tutor?
For privacy reasons, we cannot share student or tutor contact information. Most of our tutors have a social media presence or their own website.
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