south coast studio

Amazing life drawing class, unique in that it's is based on the artist Cecil Collins. The host, JoElle who was a student of his teachings in London, runs the class with true insight and especially helpful to beginners.

My boyfriend and I had a fantastic afternoon doing the watercolour workshop at South Coast Studio. The location is stunning and we were given the option to paint outside or in the light and airy studio (we chose the latter!). We are both complete beginners and haven't done any painting since school despite being in our late 20s. JoElle was incredibly accommodating and took us right back to basics. We learned a huge amount in the time we had with her and the artwork we produced is now proudly presented in our campervan. If you're looking for a relaxed and patient teacher with a wealth of experience, we strongly recommend giving this studio a visit. It was a pleasure to meet JoElle and Bill (another of her students) and we also enjoyed grabbing a drink with them after the lesson. Thanks again for a great day!

I absolutely adore my art classes with JoElle. She creates such a fun supportive environment for learning. The Cecil Collins life drawing classes are a must! You’ll love them! Penny Wyatt

Amazing variety offered.I have attended both the life drawing and watercolour classes which have been great fun.Relaxed atmosphere and JoElle is a wonderful teacher with skills galore

My father Bill has had such a corker of a year taking weekly art classes to improve and enjoy his painting. JoElle Gragilla is the Tutor and her tutorage is splendid she is very friendly {and she makes a good cup of tea}. He's enjoyed every week at South Coast Studio and is sure that next year will be as superb as 2022 has been.

I've had a really awesome time doing a plein-air painting session with JoElle. She is super friendly and an amazing teacher and communicator, with a lot of amazing tips on brushes, colours, techniques, and papers. She demonstrates her suggestions and gives constructive feedback.A really warm and supportive atmosphere here!

I LOVE the drawing class- Its loads of fun. JoElle is an amazing teacher.The space is amazing and the class has such a warm and supportive atmosphere. Fully recommend

I had a great day! The tuition was spot on and my classmates were lovely. Great location.

South Coast Studio is a restful space by the ocean, overlooking the Cook Strait, so beautiful!Joelle is a wonderful tutor, a warm-hearted mix of kindness and incredible talent. Her years of teaching and expertise shine through and I felt really welcome and safe. These workshops are perfect for beginners or experienced practitioners. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

I had such a lovely time at JoElle’s all day Friday class! I learned so much and then had the chance to put it all into practice. It was a really welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, so much so that I’ve just signed up for a term of classes