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Pattern and Colour Painting Workshop

A beginner-friendly painting class on the Surf Coast exploring patterns and colours. Book Now!

Joanna McOwen Art

ClassBento donates with every booking to

4 hours

1 to 12 guests

$160 (Afterpay available)

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Overview

Reviews

Teacher

What you'll do

If you are searching for fun things to do in Torquay or the Surf Coast this spring, then join me for a vibrant Pattern & Colour Painting Workshop at the light-filled Lightbox Studios. Guided by local coastal artist Joanna McOwen, you will create your own expressive patterned artwork inspired by local natives, bold colour, playful mark-making, and rhythmic design.

This beginner-friendly painting class in Torquay is the perfect weekend activity if you are looking for creative workshops on the Surf Coast. You will be gently guided through acrylic painting techniques such as layering, pattern building, and abstract expression, with plenty of time to experiment, explore colour freely, and let your style shine.

No prior experience is needed. Just come along, unwind, and enjoy a mindful art experience. By the end of the session, you will leave with a finished patterned canvas (plus practice pieces) to take home, along with the confidence and skills to keep painting at home.

It is the ideal creative activity for solo participants, couples, and groups, and also makes a unique option for team bonding, birthdays, or hens’ parties. Just a short drive from Geelong and under two hours from Melbourne, this Surf Coast painting workshop is a beautiful way to spend a Saturday surrounded by colour, creativity, and community.

This beginner-friendly painting class in Torquay is a perfect weekend activity if you are looking for creative workshops on the Surf Coast.

What you'll get

Step-by-step guidance from a local professional artist
All art materials provided (paints, brushes, canvas, and paper)
Your own finished floral artwork on canvas (plus practice pieces) to take home
Morning tea with coffee, tea, and gluten-free treats

Gift or Buy

Knowledge required

No experience is needed. This workshop is completely beginner-friendly and open to all levels.

What to bring

This is a day of fun and self-care. Time for you! Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting paint on (aprons welcome). Bring a light lunch and pop it in the fridge (or purchase something locally). Bring an open mind and love of playful colour.

FAQ

Can I bring my children with me?

I am very mindful this is a special self-care day away from everyday responsibilities. Mature teens aged 16+ can join when accompanied by a parent or guardian. It’s a beautiful way to share creativity, connect, and enjoy making art together.

Can I bring my own brushes?

Yes, absolutely!

Is there parking at the studio?

Yes, there is plenty of parking at the studio or on the adjacent road.

Is there wheelchair acces?

Yes, absolutely

Can I buy coffee nearby?

There is an amazing Torquay coffee shop 5 minutes walk away. We will provide tea, instant coffee and morning treats.

Will my artwork by wet when I leave?

Acrylic paints dry super quickly but just be careful when you pop this into your car.

Do you have any past students who have written reviews?

Yes, you will find many, many happy reviews on my website!

Location

The Light Box Torquay, Cylinders Drive, Torquay VIC

Related reviews

This is one of our newer classes, but here's what guests say about ClassBento's other Painting classes:

Your teacher

Joanna McOwen Art

Women-owned

Hi there! I’m Joanna, a contemporary visual artist and passionate teacher. My love of painting began with the landscapes around me from the windswept grasses of rural Victoria, the bright yellow canola fields, the rugged Grampians, and the wild, phthalo-blue ocean along the Great Ocean Road. These places have shaped my expressive, intuitive style, and it’s this joy of colour and movement that I share in every workshop.

Over the years, my work has been exhibited across Australia and collected worldwide. One of the most meaningful compliments I have received was from an Associate Professor of Visual Arts who said my paintings “took her breath away.” But what excites me most is not just creating, but helping others discover their own creativity.

Through my Learn to Paint workshops, I have taught hundreds of students, from complete beginners to seasoned creatives, in Melbourne, Geelong, the Surf Coast and Port Fairy. I have also had the privilege of teaching art programs in some of Melbourne's most well-known independent schools. Whether in a studio, a school, or a community group, I love guiding people to experiment, let go of perfection, and surprise themselves. My classes are relaxed, fun, and hands-on, and I especially enjoy seeing students walk away proud and exhilarated at the canvas they have created.

Originally from the UK, I grew up in a creative family of musicians, painters, and ceramicists. After travelling and working around the world, I settled in Australia in 2004. With formal studies in Textile and Interior Design at Leeds University and Chelsea College of Art in London, I bring both training and life experience into my classes.

Something many people don’t know is that you don’t need to be “good at art” to create something beautiful. I love helping people unlock their creativity with simple techniques, bold colour, and plenty of friendly vibes and encouragement.

If you are looking for an inspiring, welcoming space to paint, I would love to create with you on my workshop days.