Who we are

Storytime!

I started these classes back in 2015 because at the time, as a mixed, queer, working-class artist from Croydon 😮‍💨, I felt that locally there wasn't yet a class that offered interesting, diverse models on a weeknight that appealed to people of all walks of life.

It's been such a learning curve. Many of you from those early days have been on a supportive journey with me from when I ran the classes myself, shaping what we are today. Many of you are still coming to draw with us or leading the classes…So now we growing old together.

With a massive population in Croydon and having met tonnes of artists over the years through my work at MY, I took the leap and started what I wanted to see 9 years ago. Our classes are central and appeal to locals, providing an opportunity for Croydon artists to lead workshops and be PAID to do so (not for exposure!!), while enabling experienced artists and beginners to try something new together.

Our life class usually offers initial shorter warm-up poses before moving on to one long pose for the rest of the session, giving the opportunity to compose, draw or paint a more finished piece. Each class is hosted by a local artist, making every session unique at Matthews Yard.

Ready to dive into a world of color and creativity? Come along on the second or last Thursday of the month and draw with us, or book us for your event and explore the joy of drawing and coloring where guidance and inspiration await with every pencil stroke.

Leoni x