New Community Art School Set for Country Lane in 2026

A new pop-up art school, “Art Assembly”, will open in the Assembly Room at Frankton’s Country Lane from mid-April to mid-May 2026, offering Queenstown Lakes residents and visitors a chance to learn core visual art skills and join a growing creative community.

The seven-week programme will feature drawing, painting and printmaking classes, along with weekend workshops, three-to-four-day
intensives and evening sessions designed for adult learners and those artists wanting to up-skill. Each course will focus on developing foundational technique, observational skills, experimentation and confidence with materials, guided directly by experienced contemporary artists from the region and beyond.

“Art Assembly” is led by local practicing artist and arts manager Kim Shaw, who holds a Master of Arts and Master of Arts Management. Her experience at Auckland’s highly regarded Browne School of Art reinforced the importance of a strong, supportive arts community and the impact it can have on students.

Shaw sees a clear opportunity in the Wakatipu for a serious, skills-based visual arts programme that also encourages connection, discussion, experimentation and peer learning. “I want people to spark off each other, take creative risks and deepen their understanding of visual art,” she says.
The project will launch as a pilot, with plans to expand if demand is strong.

For more information or to register interest, contact Kim Shaw at info@artassembly.nz

If you have ever been curious about your creative ability, wanting to extend your visual arts practice, or yearn to connect to an art making community – being part of an art conversation, then “Art Assembly”, is a place for you.

Visit: www.artassembly.co.nz