Relax and Recharge with an Art Class Off the Tourist Trail
Art for Adults Sally-Ann Johns Art for Adults Sally-Ann Johns

Relax and Recharge with an Art Class Off the Tourist Trail

When visiting Edinburgh you’ll discover centuries-old castles, sweeping views, historic streets, and lively shops, but if you’re looking for something truly memorable and a little different, step away from the tourist trail and come to Studio 48. Tucked away in Leith, we are a welcoming art studio offering a refreshing escape from the busyness of the city centre. It’s a place where creativity flows freely, where visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the simple pleasure of making art, meeting new people, and take home something they’ve created with their own hands.

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Exploring Digital Art: A New Creative Frontier
Creativity Sally-Ann Johns Creativity Sally-Ann Johns

Exploring Digital Art: A New Creative Frontier

As the creative world continues to evolve, digital art has emerged as a dynamic and accessible form of expression. At Studio 48, we’re excited to introduce Digital Arty Tuesdays, a five-week evening course designed for adults who are eager to explore this medium. Digital art is not just for professional illustrators or tech-savvy creatives; with the right tools and support, anyone can begin to experiment with digital drawing, painting, and animation.

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Exploring the Joy of Colour and Shape
Art History Sally-Ann Johns Art History Sally-Ann Johns

Exploring the Joy of Colour and Shape

Recently at the studio we immersed ourselves in the vibrant world of Henri Matisse, embracing his bold use of colour and abstract forms. Students engaged in painting, cutting, and assembling their own Matisse-inspired masterpieces. This hands-on experience not only introduced them to his unique style but also encouraged them to explore their own artistic expressions.

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Why Art Belongs in After-School Routines
Children, Education Sally-Ann Johns Children, Education Sally-Ann Johns

Why Art Belongs in After-School Routines

In general, after-school routines are part of a helpful daily structure. They provide a bridge between formal education and downtime, offering opportunities to explore interests that may not be covered in the classroom. Whether it’s sports, languages, or art, these post-school activities can give children time to build new skills and develop a stronger sense of identity outside the classroom. They offer the chance to challenge themselves, collaborate with others, and gain confidence through doing something they genuinely enjoy. And if it’s art they like doing, there’s plenty of sessions available at Studio 48!

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The Joy of Learning Through Making
Creativity Sally-Ann Johns Creativity Sally-Ann Johns

The Joy of Learning Through Making

In an increasingly digital world where there is less physical interaction, the act of making something with our own hand brings a unique sense of fulfilment. Whether it’s painting, drawing, crafting, or something else, the process of creating is more than just fun. It’s a wonderful way to learn, grow, and connect with a part of ourselves that may not often be used.

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Why You Should Make Time for Art (Even If You Think You’re Not ‘Creative’)
Art for Adults, Creativity Sally-Ann Johns Art for Adults, Creativity Sally-Ann Johns

Why You Should Make Time for Art (Even If You Think You’re Not ‘Creative’)

Many dismiss the idea of making art, believing they lack creativity or artistic talent. They may say "I can’t draw” or "I was never good at art in school” – but really art is for everyone. It’s not just for those who might consider themselves naturally gifted. Being an artist or a creative is not an exclusive club! While technical skills can be developed, art can just be a form of joy and self-expression, and is an activity that anyone can and should partake in.

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New Year, New Skills: Embrace Art in 2025
Creativity Creativity

New Year, New Skills: Embrace Art in 2025

As we start 2025 it’s a great time to explore new things and make meaningful resolutions. Often they can be restrictive, but why not try something that nurtures your creativity by taking an art class at Studio 48!  Art classes offer a unique way for you to explore your imagination, learn new skills, and have an outlet for self-expression. Whether you’re a beginner or someone rediscovering a passion for art, this could be the perfect resolution to brighten your year. 

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Crafting a Merry Season: Simple Decorations for Christmas
Children, Creativity Children, Creativity

Crafting a Merry Season: Simple Decorations for Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to bring festive spirit into your home than through DIY holiday decorations. Creating holiday decor is a fun and fulfilling activity allowing you to personalise your space and add a unique, artistic touch. Whether you’re decorating solo or with your kids, these simple ideas can help you create a cozy, festive environment filled with your own creative flair.

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Spooky Art Projects for Kids: Easy Halloween Crafts
Holiday, Children, Crafts Holiday, Children, Crafts

Spooky Art Projects for Kids: Easy Halloween Crafts

Halloween is the perfect time to spark your child's creativity with some spooky art projects. From classic paper ghosts to DIY glowing mummies, these crafts are easy to make and fun for kids of all ages. Not only do they provide an engaging way for children to celebrate the season, but they also help develop fine motor skills, creativity, and imagination. Try a few of these easy Halloween crafts at home, and watch your little ones get into the spooky spirit!

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The Value of Process Over Perfection in Art
Creativity, Education Creativity, Education

The Value of Process Over Perfection in Art

Often a perfect outcome is strived for, whether it’s in work, relationships, or personal projects, there is a pressure to produce and have something flawless. This mindset is particularly discouraging for creative endeavours like art, where it should be more about the process rather than simply the finished product. For both beginners and experienced artists, shifting the focus from perfection to the act of creating itself can be freeing, rewarding, and transformative, so here is just a little reminder to appreciate the journey and not just the destination.

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Four Female Artists You Should Know About
Creativity, Education Creativity, Education

Four Female Artists You Should Know About

Recently we did a quick overview of famous art movements in history, but that blog left out an important detail: the contributions of women. Women have often been overlooked in the art world, whether due to limited access to education, lack of resources, or simply being overshadowed by their male counterparts. However, their impact is undeniable and deserves recognition. This blog is dedicated to highlighting four female artists who have made significant contributions to the world of art and deserve to be celebrated.

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Edinburgh Art Museums To Visit
Creativity, Education Creativity, Education

Edinburgh Art Museums To Visit

Summer has arrived, school is out, and it's the perfect time to explore Edinburgh's art scene, which offers a rich and diverse array of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests. Take the opportunity to explore some remarkable galleries and museums, each offering a unique perspective on the world of art. Whether you're looking to appreciate classic masterpieces or contemporary creations, Edinburgh has something to offer, and here are just a few places to go visit.

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The Importance of Art for Self Expression

The Importance of Art for Self Expression

Art is a powerful medium for children to express themselves and explore their emotions. Through the arts, children learn the fundamental process of discovering and imagining, originating and problem solving, thinking and creating. By offering them the opportunity to create art, it gives a means to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that is unique to them.

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Budget Friendly Crafts: Paper Mache Bowls
Crafts, Creativity Crafts, Creativity

Budget Friendly Crafts: Paper Mache Bowls

Papier-mâché, also known as paper mache, is a fun and simple activity for kids. You don't need many materials, and chances are you have everything you need at home already. All you need is water, flour, paper, balloons, and your imagination! Not only is it easy and inexpensive, but paper mache is also surprisingly strong and durable.

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The Importance of Bad Art

The Importance of Bad Art

In this blog post I wanted to explore the idea that art has to be perfect in order to be valid. Sometimes society has made it feel like being a good artist is just a natural-born thing, where you either have it or you don’t. You are either a creative person or you are not. Some biopics represent art like you just start creating and the ideas come pouring out and it is perfection at first stroke.

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The Benefits of Art for Children
Children Children

The Benefits of Art for Children

Arts & crafts have always been an especially fun activity for children of all ages, great for making friendships through shared interests and for strengthening family bonds, as it is a highly enjoyable activity for both parents and children alike... But did you know artmaking and creativity has many more essential benefits to your child's physical, emotional, and mental well-being than simply being fun and enjoyable?

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