Having been creative from a young age, Patricia's fine art journey started with her contemporary fine art degree from the University of Sussex, having gone on to exhibit her art pieces in group exhibitions. Having learnt the skills needed to become a qualified Fine Art Practicioner, she wanted to share her expertise through tutoring. She now teaches drawing and painting to GCSE and A-Level students, fellow artists, and anyone with a passion for art wanting to learn.

We spoke to Patricia about her journey as an artist, what inspires her to keep teaching, and how Obby helped her grow her small business.

(Author's: Patricia's answers have been edited for length and clarity)

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When was the first time you started working with fine art, and what drew you to it?

I’ve always been creative even as a young child, but it was my Dad who really inspired me. Making kites, homemade mini gardens, jewellery boxes out of shells, and more, he always had a new idea to try. I learnt from a very young age that everything from chairs, to TV's, to baths, were all made by humans who were being creative in their surroundings.

What made you realise that teaching might be for you? And was it difficult for you to make that leap from creating for yourself to teaching others?

I started out doing private art teaching for school children, because I realised they were missing out on important skills in being able to draw, paint, and being able to bring their ideas to life on paper. It was the feedback I received from their parents that inspired me to set-up my private teaching business. For me, the leap wasn’t difficult, it was just a natural progression; by taking the leap to provide kids classes, I was then being asked by others to provide art courses and workshops for adults. So, it all seemed to fall into place.

What encouraged you to join Obby as a teacher? And how are we helping you grow?

Obby offered to handle all marketing of my services and manage the payment side for a reasonable fee. It's proven to be really successful, something you can see in how my business has been thriving, even through the height of the pandemic.

How do you maintain your inspiration for your own fine art? And how do you pass that inspiration onto your students?

I’ve not made tutoring my full-time job, but I will in the near future, so right now being able to still be a fine art practitioner and exhibit my pieces and produce artworks helps me balance the teaching side of my life.

Do you feel your craft helps people with their wellbeing and mental health? And why?

I certainly do feel my craft helps others in their wellbeing and mental health.  They get to take time out of their daily lives and focus on doing something creative, which is for them only and only them. They get to realise how creative they can be when they're given the right tools and guidance, and can be proud of their results.  

What has been your favourite student interaction since you’ve started teaching?

Face-to-face interaction has been my favourite, and my students feel the same. My art courses is all about the experience and a chance to open one’s self to the creative art world, and this I feel is best shared when everyone gets to share the experience together in-person.

What is your favourite thing about teaching that you feel you benefit from?

Seeing my clients grow, and what they bring into my art course to study.  It allows me a chance to see their personal character, and I get to see them fully express themselves creatively; it's such a rewarding feeling.

Any tips for aspiring creatives who are looking to start teaching their own classes?

Be sure to be open to all your students, because they all think and learn differently. Be very patient and at all times be positive, and remember that your guidance can help turn their weaknesses into strength.

Want to know more?

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