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 came to the difficult decision that Art Est would close its doors after our 2025 Summer workshops.

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.

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.