4 Creative Workshops to Bring Out Your Inner Artist

With the ‘La Niña’ still easing down and the weather starting to cool, activities that keep us indoors and out of the cold are even more appealing…

Creative expression is known to improve your mood, boost self-esteem and even increase brain function. It can alleviate stress and anxiety, improve focus and encourages us to be lifelong learners. When we get artsy with others, it’s also incredibly social – so when you’re next making plans with your friends, family or partner, why not consider one of these hands-on workshops?

Words by Jacqueline O’Neill, Images supplied.

The Fifth Lane

The Fifth Lane is Thomas Lane’s self-described “creative outlet”, founded several years ago in Sydney to satisfy his obsession with ring-making. Initially run from home, Thomas would travel up and down the coast running workshops to teach others the craft, whilst also selling his gold and silver handmade creations online. When he and his partner, Amy, moved to the Central Coast to start their family, they launched a physical space, Studio Lane (which is also a great café), in Erina late-August last year.

The Fifth Lane now operates out of the studio, as do Tommy’s workshops which take participants through the basics of silversmithing over a 2.5 hour class with wine, beer, nibble and all necessary materials and tools provided. If you prefer to work with gold, this option is also available. For more, head to their website or follow them on socials.

Tommy Lane in action prior to having his own space @ Studio Lane in Erina.

House of Ellery

These classes will have you coming back for more, but don’t worry, you can purchase more raw materials to take home!

Located a little further north in Wyong, House of Ellery is an aspiring creative’s dream. A gift store and florist meets maker space, visitors are spoilt for choice with a large collection homewares and books, as well as flowers and plants on display.

Creative workshops offered include basket weaving, wreath making, hand knitting, botanical bath bomb and soap making, loom weaving, candle making and planter pot painting with alcohol ink – the most difficult part is figuring out which class to take first. You can check out their website here and socials here.

Mowgli Play

We’re reliving that Swayze scene from Ghost in our heads every time…

In the workshop and events section of Mowgli Studio at Long Jetty, you’ll find Mowgli Play. If you haven’t been to Mowgli, we must warn you – you’ll almost definitely leave with plants. The space itself was created by Founder Stefan Rusbourne, a plant-based home and commercial space designer, botanical stylist and wedding designer. His goal is to help customers find their connection with plants – integrating, positioning and caring for them in our living area to bring us back to nature.

Mowgli Play offer classes where participants bring along their friends, food and beverages and can paint beautiful pots, usually in the evenings. Botanical life drawing classes are also offered from time to time. Private sessions and groups can always be accommodated outside of the scheduled workshop times – you can find more information here and follow their socials here.

Pinot and Picasso

Pinot is the tonic to perfectionism at P&P’s classes…and we’re here for it.

Our list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of our friends at Pinot and Picasso in Terrigal. From non-creatives to experienced artists, all are catered for at sessions that take participants through the guided painting of a particular subject, which you essentially choose upon booking. These sessions are designed so that you can bring along some vino and nibbles, so are not suitable for under 18s, however designated kids sessions are also on offer (especially through school holidays). While most sessions are at their studio in Church Street, the team also travel to other venues to offer classes in different settings (including The Entrance Lake House, Shady Palms and Drifters Wharf, just to name a few). You can book in here and follow P&P on socials here.