About Us

The people who use Cheltenham School of Fine Art are a great mix of ages, abilities and varied interest in the arts – from classical to contemporary. Many are individuals wishing to improve on existing skills in drawing and painting, and there are those who draw or paint for recreation or who have always wanted to try their hand at the arts.

CFA is great for those who wish to explore their ideas and skills in painting and expand their technical abilities through experimental drawing. We cater for students who work full time and are interested in drop in options in life drawing, painting or evening courses.

We have a broad based interest in Arts and Crafts, building on the historic tradition in the Cotswolds, specialising in hand build studio ceramics as well as fine art painting and drawing.

CFA runs classes and workshops supported or run by visiting and local artists from the Cotswolds.  The CFA studio is fully equiped with easels, donkeys, boards and clips.

Vivien Ayres

Vivien is the founding director of Cheltenham Art School and the principal of Cheltenham School of Fine Art since April 2011. Vivien trained at Central School of Art in London and has previously taught at the University of Gloucester and GlosCol.

Jessie Carr

Jessie is a collaborative tutor at The Cheltenham School of Fine Art. Trained at Central St Martins Art College in London, a practising artist and tutor with over 20 years experience in the decorative arts.

She is also the Owner/founder of Discovery Art Class, running a range of classes and workshops in Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, including Life Drawing sessions at the Art School.

Tom Kane

A self-taught artist, Tom has for many years pursued watercolour painting alongside a career as a composer and musician.

He leads regular workshops and gives watercolour demonstrations around the county.