Learn to paint compelling portraits in acrylics - from proportions and likeness to colour, brushwork and expression - in this structured, small-group course with professional artist and art restorer Kasia Hebda.

THURSDAYS | 27 August - 1 October | 6-8:30 PM | All levels welcome

Portraits can feel intimidating until you understand how to actually see them. This 5-week course breaks portrait painting into manageable, confidence-building steps - helping you move past hesitation and into real painting, from your very first session.

Working from reference images, you'll build a practical understanding of facial structure, colour mixing, and how to simplify complex features without losing character. The focus is on creating portraits that feel realistic yet painterly - avoiding the flat or overworked look.

Expect demonstrations, individual guidance, practical exercises and plenty of problem-solving along the way. You'll complete several paintings across the course and leave with both the skills and the confidence to keep going independently.

No prior experience needed.

Limited spots available.

Dates:

27 August, 3, 10, 17 September, 1 October

What you'll learn:

• Facial proportions and head structure
• Colour mixing for realistic and expressive skin tones
• Brushwork and paint application for a painterly finish
• Simplifying complex features without losing likeness
• Building up layers - avoiding the overworked look
• Capturing expression and personality
• Developing your own approach to portrait painting
  
  

Who it's for:

• Total beginners wanting a solid, structured start
• Intermediate artists looking to improve their portrait work
• Anyone who finds faces challenging and wants to finally crack it
• Life drawing students who want to move on from drawing into painting
   

Small-group sessions ensure individual feedback and guidance, supporting each participant in developing their own approach and visual language.

Materials:

All high-quality materials provided. You’re welcome to bring your own tools if you prefer.

Drop-In Option:

Can’t commit to all sessions? You’re welcome to join individual classes. Spots are released only if the course is not fully booked.

Location:
KASIA HEBDA STUDIO – School House Studios (Country Lane)
26 Hansen Road, Frankton, Queenstown
 

Free parking + great coffee / food / shopping options on site.

About the Artist

Kasia Hebda is a Polish-born artist, designer and art conservator based in Queenstown, New Zealand.
 

She has over 20 years of painting experience, with a background spanning fine art, design, and conservation practice. Kasia has also created a number of murals in both Poland and Queenstown.

Working from her studio at Country Lane, she is known for her signature watercolour courses and workshops that combine technical skill with close observation and creative development. Strongly inspired by New Zealand nature, it's her constant source of inspiration for her own art.

She is passionate about sharing her knowledge with other creatives. Her teaching focuses on slowing down, building confidence, and developing your own artistic voice rather than following a fixed style.

More about Kasia's workshops - here.