Find Workshops
SATURDAY ART CLUB
8th August AT 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
New Art Exchange
Kick off your Saturday with a burst of creativity!
Join artist Lucy Bronwen Davies for free, drop-in workshops packed with hands-on fun, imagination, and playful discovery. Led by amazing Creative Facilitators, each session offers brand-new activities to try, so no two sessions are ever the same! Whether you come to make, explore, or simply have fun together, it’s the perfect way for families to get creative and start the weekend with a smile.
FREE and open to those aged 4-12 and their families; come along and try a session.
To find out more, contact [email protected]
Vehdance Carnival Class
Fri 17th Jul 2026 to Thu 13th Aug 2026, various times
Fabric Dance, Space 2
This Summer Vehdance and Movement is calling all movers and shakers to join them in dancing through the streets at this year’s Nottingham Carnival parade.
The annual Carnival event is an honour of music, dance and celebration with big costumes and even bigger sound systems taking over the city.
Vehdance is looking for individuals who love to move, connect with community and engage with Caribbean Carnival culture through shared creative adventure.
Over 5 weeks you and your peers would meet over five Thursday evenings to learn movement phrases, dance into fitness, design your costume and develop performance skills ready for the parade happening Sunday 16 August 2026.
Carnival Rehearsals
Thursday evenings: 16, 23 & 30 July, 6 & 13 August
Nottingham Carnival parade
Sunday 16 August, 12.30 – 5pm (times to be confirmed)
Find out more and book a class here
1525: Sketch Up 101
Wed 5 Aug, 5pm–7pm
Nottingham Contemporary
Curious about SketchUp? This beginner friendly workshop led by Beshlie Seelochan for 15-25 year olds will introduce you to the basics of computer aided design through the use of SketchUp.
SketchUp is an easy to use programme which allows you to digitally make 3D objects and spaces. We will talk about the ways that SketchUp can be useful for all artists and how you can incorporate it into your practice. We welcome anyone who is curious about 3D computer aided design to come and have a go.
You will be guided through making your own digital version of one of Nottingham Contemporary’s gallery spaces and you are invited to experiment with seeing what your own work would look like in the gallery.
Please bring along your own laptop that can run SketchUp from a web browser.
Please note that tickets are limited, so we kindly ask you to book only if you are able to attend, and to email us at [email protected] to cancel your booking if you can no longer make it to the session.
Man Up Man Down
Fisher Gate Point
7 week free creative workshop, starting 10th June
During an unusually open discussion in between World Cup matches being shown at a Nottingham bar back in 2018, it became obvious to us that most men in our group had, at some point, had issues with their mental health. The seeds were sown to make an application to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund to provide support through Arts and wellbeing sessions.
THUS, Man Up Man Down was born. Our team now offer a variety of free workshops specifically for male identifying people. The workshops cover all sorts from fashion and poetry to canoeing and DJ-ing. All the workshops are free of charge but they’re in high demand so follow us on socials to get the latest updates.
Book your free creative workshops here
Collage N’ Cocktails
Every other Wednesday
Get ready to unleash your inner artist while sipping on cocktails at Collage N’ Cocktails – a creative night you won’t want to miss!
Come join us at The Carousel on July 1st, 2026 at 7:00 PM for a fun-filled evening of collage making and cocktails! Let your creativity flow as you create unique collages while sipping on delicious drinks.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, this event is perfect for everyone. Grab your friends and make it a night to remember!
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to unwind and get creative. See you there!
Acting for Screen Summer School
Nottingham Playhouse
Mon 10 – Tue 11 Aug
Led by Kieran Vyas, our exciting Acting for Screen workshop will teach you all the things you need to know to stand out and shine on camera!
Ready to take your acting to the next level? Whether you dream of starring in films or TV shows, our 2-day Acting for Screen Summer School is the perfect place to start. Get hands-on experience with professional techniques, camera work, and performance style to help you shine on screen!
If you’re looking for an engaging activity to take part in this summer, this could be the workshop for you.
11-18-year-Olds
Find out more and how to apply here
Gallery Art Group
Saturdays 19 September – 17 October & 7 November – 5 December
Visual Arts Studio, Lakeside Arts
See your creative expression flourish! Our Associate Artists will take their inspiration from our current exhibitions programme to lead workshops that explore materials, develop art skills and technique whilst building confidence in a relaxed and sociable environment.
Meet like-minded peers, build your GCSE or A-level portfolio and/or work towards an Arts Award qualification – all in a relaxed and sociable environment.
This workshop is designed for children to enjoy independently. Parents and carers, feel free to relax in our lovely cafés or explore our galleries while the kids get creative.
For ages 11-18
NOTTDANCE
Nottingham College – City Hub
Hofesh Shechter Company Workshop (for ages 13 to 17)
Led by Hofesh Shechter Company, the workshop is an opportunity to explore the Company’s distinctive movement style. The workshop will include a full warm up and use repertoire and imagery from Hofesh’s critically acclaimed work, From England with Love, to explore his creative process.
Ticket price: £3
BFI Film Academy Alumni: Case Studies & Network Sign-Up
Explore inspiring stories from regional alumni and see where their BFI Film Academy journey has taken them.
If you’ve taken part in a Midlands BFI Film Academy Short or Specialist Course, join our alumni network by signing up to the database – gain access to exclusive opportunities and stay connected with future prospects. Check out here.
Scars and Wounds SFX Workshop
Saturday 10th October, 14:00
Broadway Cinema
Join us for a fascinating afternoon exploring the world of practical SFX. Facilitated by Steve Best of award-winning studio FakeUp, who will share his experience and expertise of silicone and gelatine prosthetics.
We’ll explore creation of prosthetics and props for film and TV, followed by a hands-on demonstration of the application of scars and wounds.
We’ll see how to prepare, apply, blend, and colour the pieces, and then have an opportunity to get stuck in ourselves learning to apply 1-2 pieces each, all supported by Steve.
The cost includes all the required materials, including the prosthetics, adhesive, blender and paints.
This course is suitable for those 18+
Film Hub Midlands
Film Hub Midlands regularly update their site with different resources, opportunities, courses and awards/prizes you can get involved with.
There’s a wide variety of activities and events for everyone aspiring to work in the film industry so don’t miss out.
Find out more
Silversmithing Beginners Ring workshop
Sat 1st August, 2:00PM – 5:00PM
The Bead Shop
Join us for Silversmithing beginners Ring workshop we’ll show you how to create your own silver rings. Your rings will be made with sterling silver wire (after creating a practice ring with copper wire. You can texture your rings and decorate them with balls of silver formed from recycled silver. During the workshop you’ll get to grips with soldering and shaping, the crucial technique to master as a beginner silversmith.
The Silversmithing Ring workshop is suitable for beginners. As well as experienced silversmithers – a great refresher if you haven’t silversmithed for a while. This is the perfect workshop for learning a new skill or have a Saturday morning to your self (or with friends) to create something different for yourself. Scroll across for an example of what was made in a private workshop booked by a family recently. If you can’t make the date of the workshop, let us know. We can run more classes, or run a private 1-2-1 session or gather some friends and book a workshop just for your group.
Materials are provided to make the Rings.
Refreshments are provided and you’ll be given a 10% off voucher for use in store (valid for 1 month). As well as a 50% discount voucher off a tea or coffee from our café (valid for a week).
Click here to see all the workshops we have available.
Life Drawing Session: Talking Heads with The Square Gallery
Sat 15 Aug, 12pm–1pm
Nottingham Contemporary
Talking Heads is a series of live drawing sessions which invite audiences to interact with our current exhibition Physical Culture by Augustas Serapinas. Guided by The Square Gallery, participants will be invited to make drawings inside of the sculptural installation, focusing on the cast heads featured in the display as well as a live fitness group occupying and activating the gym installation.
Expanding on the themes of the exhibition, the life drawing sessions aim to encourage reflection around the Western art history canon, examining where our focus has been held, and what structures continue to dominate in Western cultures.
All abilities are welcome and all materials will be provided.
Tickets are limited to take part in the life-drawing sessions, but visitors are welcome to watch the performative installation activation by booking general entry to the exhibition.
The Square Gallery is a student-led gallery based inside the Bonington building of Nottingham Trent University. They put on regular exhibitions, workshops, and events, showing students’ work and striving to engage with the context of its place within a Nottingham art school, in the heart of the Fine Art studios.
Art and Coffee Workshop with Hidden Brew Coffee
Saturday 1st August, 11-2pm
The Drawing Room Gallery, Cobden Chambers
We’re back for yet another arts workshop, in collaboration with The Hidden Brew coffee shop!
Join us for a fun and creative coffee and art workshop where teamwork and humour take center stage! Attendees will be divided into groups of three and tasked with drawing different parts of the same artwork. Once completed, each group will present their collaborative masterpiece to everyone, resulting in humorous and unexpected creations.
What will happen during the event?
- When you first arrive, you’ll be greeted with a complimentary coffee courtesy of The Hidden Brew Coffee Shop, and then shown to your seat where you’ll find all the drawing equipment you could ever need.
- After being split into 3 groups, your group will pick an item to draw, and each of you will draw 1 of 3 sections of this drawing.
- At the end of the session, your groups drawings will be pieced together, and shown to the rest of the workshop, hopefully resulting in some fun and unique creations.
EMPLOYMENT ESSENTIALS WORKSHOP: CV’s and Cover Letters
Tuesday 18 August, 2pm to 3pm
Give your job applications a boost by learning how to create an effective CV and write engaging cover letters. This free Employment Essentials session is suitable for anyone searching for employment or a fresh career opportunity. Book your free place today and join us in Room 4 at Nottingham Central Library on Monday 18 August at 2pm.
1525: Blender 101
Step into the world of 3D design with Blender, one of the most widely used creative tools for digital modelling, in this workshop for 15-25 year olds.
In this hands-on workshop lead by Technical Artist Asa Booth, participants will explore the fundamentals of 3D making by creating simple sculptural forms inspired by ceramic objects and craft practices.
Blending traditional ideas of making with digital technology, this session invites you to experiment with shape, texture and form, discovering how physical objects can be reimagined in virtual space. Whether new to 3D design or simply curious about creative technology, this beginner session is for you!
Please note, this event will be held off-site at Nottingham Trent University’s City Campus. We’ll share specific location details with ticket-holders via email.
Please note that tickets are very limited, so we kindly ask you to book only if you are able to attend, and to email us at [email protected] to cancel your booking if you can no longer make it to the session.
Miniatures for Mindfulness
The Carousel
7-9 pm, August 11th (2nd Tuesday of the month)
Please join us at The Carousel for a monthly social miniature-painting event hosted by Ay Up Georgina and Dan. This is an evening dedicated to painting miniatures, enjoying a nice drink, and spending time with others in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
All miniature painters are welcome — whether you paint Warhammer or any other miniatures. Experience level doesn’t matter; the focus is on community, creativity, and enjoying the hobby together.
Please bring your miniatures and paints and enjoy a night of community and painting!
THRESHOLDS, LIBERATING NARRATIVES: EXPLORING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY
Djanogly Gallery, Lakeside Arts
Wednesdays 16, 23 & 30 September, 7 & 14 October, 6.30pm
Reflect on your own photographs through the lens of the LagosPhoto exhibition.
Over five weeks, develop new ways of thinking about your own work and grow your understanding of the history of photography.
This workshop is not suitable for beginners. 18+
This course has been designed by Daniel Wheeler and Dr Mark Rawlinson, Associate Professor of Art History at the University of Nottingham, founders of Sequence, The Nottingham Centre for Photography and Social Engagement.
Paint and Sip – Starry Night
15 July 2026, 19:00 – 21:00
Malt Cross
Join us for a creative night of drinking and painting in the heart of Nottingham! No previous painting experience necessary! Get your creative juices flowing and your brush strokes going!
What’s included
Approx. 2 hour step-by-step painting session led by our experienced artist and assistants.
All painting materials needed to complete your masterpiece.
Acrylic paint on high-quality stretched canvas.
Photos taken throughout the session & posted on our Facebook page.
Heaps of fun exploring your creative side.
A one-of-a-kind masterpiece to take home.
and best of all – we clean up!
Please arrive 15 mins before your event start time to get settled .
Drinks are not included but can be purchased from the bar. BYO is not permitted as our events are held at licensed venues.
EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ZINES
A Creative Literacy Workshop at Nottingham Women’s Centre
Empowerment Through Zines is an 6‑week creative course designed to help you build confidence with reading, writing, and self‑expression in a relaxed, supportive space.
Together, we will explore women’s stories, rights, and experiences, using these as inspiration to create your own personal zine — a small, handmade booklet that reflects your voice, ideas, and creativity.
Throughout the course, you’ll have the chance to:
- Develop your reading, writing, and communication skills at your own pace
- Try out creative techniques such as drawing, collage, lettering and simple design
- Share stories, ideas, and inspiration with other women in a friendly group
- Build confidence through hands-on activities and gentle guidance from an experienced tutor
- By the end of the course you will create, publish and showcase your zines and contribute your work to a small exhibition in the library (optional)
Please register in advance by emailing [email protected] or call 0115 941 1475 (Mon-Fri 9-5)
Amplify Co-Working Sessions
Nottingham Playhouse
22 July, 10am
For creatives who have work to be getting on with but like being around other people doing the same, Company is booked out for AMPLIFY members from 10am-5pm. We’ll provide tea and coffee. Come along for a check in first thing, and we’ll have an end of day accountability check in for those that want it. Or just drop in when it suits you – even if just to say hello.
In cosy corner, we have the Play Library up and running, so if you have any plays you’d like to re-home and gift to the theatre community, please bring them along – and of course feel free to take a play or two home with you to bring back another time.
Free | £5 suggested donation
NextGen Hub Nottingham
Introducing NextGen Hub!
Calling all young creatives in Nottingham and surrounding areas! We’re excited to unveil Next Gen Hub, a brand-new series of sessions just for you!
What’s in store?
• Songwriting & Spoken Word Masterclasses: Unleash your creativity and craft your own music.
• Event Management Skills: Gain the know-how to lead and organise a fantastic festival event this summer!
• Wellbeing & Relationships: Explore how to nurture your mental health and build meaningful connections.
• Voice Work & Tone: Improve your singing skills with expert guidance.
• Dance & Relaxation: Find your rhythm and unwind through movement.
Session tutors will be revealed soon! Stay tuned for more details on the experts who’ll be guiding you through each session.
A huge thank you to Near Neighbours Nottingham for funding our inclusive creative project especially designed in consultation with young people at Community Recording Studios (CRS) in Nottingham.
📢 Stay Tuned!
More details on how to sign up and get involved are coming soon. Keep an eye out for updates and get ready to join the creative journey!
Sugar Stealers
Sugar Stealers are offering free creative and wellbeing opportunities for all women and gender expansive people. These workshops are made to suit a wide range of abilities & all necessary equipment will be provided for you, so don’t worry if you are a first timer!
Free 8 week Music Industry Development Programme (Podcasting, event planning, DJ-ing, Music Production, Sound Engineering, Industry Mentorship, Rehearsal Space). Limited spaces available, advised to apply soon to secure a spot! https://www.sugarstealers.com/music
Free 5 Week Music Tuition For People Facing Financial Barriers (DJ-ing, Music Production, Sound Engineering): https://www.sugarstealers.com/tuition
Nottingham Trent University – Experience subjects
Ages 16+
Various Dates
NTU have designed a series of activities with their current students and teaching colleagues to help you build a better picture of how they run their courses. These experience programmes are designed for both students and Teachers and Advisers.
Whether you’re curious about what it might be like to study psychology, fashion, design or business, click the link below and register your interest in experiencing a subject.
Find out more
Create – Grow – Learn
Nottingham Arts Theatre Youth Group reformed in March 2019, thanks to funding from the lottery. We cover a range of disciplines including drama, dance and singing with students aged between 8 and 18.
The ethos of the group is to create an environment that allows our young people to grow, learn and be creative. We are passionate about providing access to theatre and developing skills, while always being adaptable to individual’s journeys and being led by our young people. We aim to improve confidence, nurture talent and encourage our young people by providing opportunity and a safe space to explore through creative exercise. In more recent years, we have also encouraged the learning of backstage and offstage roles, for our young people to also develop their knowledge and understanding of theatre as a whole.
We work on both developing skills and working towards performances across the year. All groups will take part in an annual showcase, as well as other performance opportunities throughout the year. Our leaders are all fully DBS and chaperone trained as well as having received formal training and qualifications within the performing arts industry.
To join our waiting list, or get more information email [email protected]
Or, volunteer opportunities include auditing and managing our props and wardrobe stores, various admin tasks, staffing the Box Office during the week, assisting at special events, supporting community initiatives, and crewing in-house productions.
To discuss volunteering opportuities further, simply email [email protected], leaving your name and contact details.