Cumbrian art classes see students paint dogs, cats and cows

Victoria Newstead, a teacher at James Rennie school in Carlisle, has found success with her new art classes in Crosby-on-Eden, where students can paint their beloved pets, or other cute animals. 

After moving to England from Moscow over 30 years ago, the teacher is now bringing the people of Cumbria together, entertaining ages from six to 82. 

Teacher Victoria Newstead (Image: Supplied)

Her classes are also helping to boost people's mental health, as the tranquil and friendly atmosphere has benefitted those who need time to relax. 

She said: "The feedback has been quite extraordinary. Lots of people who had never painted before are now coming back for the fifth or sixth time. It's amazing that so many people want to do this, and are then bringing along their mums or their sisters."

Victoria was keen to stress that her classes are for absolutely anyone, and that making mistakes is a 'part of being an artist'. 

She added: "My only requirement for coming is enthusiasm. I don't care if you can't do it, I will show you how to do it, you've just got to want to do it.

"Sometimes people can't relax and all they think about is the final product. I always say, please refrain from judging and be easy on yourself. I will always do my best to help you.

"There is nothing you can do in acrylic painting that you can't fix. After I make a mistake and show them how to fix it on my canvas, people seem to relax. You learn from every mistake.

"It's ok to be a little anxious, that's how you get to the next level."

Highland Cow classes are always popular (Image: Supplied)

Her class painting highland cows, which can of course be found in the Lake District in Buttermere, have also proven particularly popular. But more general landscape classes, including flowers and cottages, are also on the agenda in the coming months.

Tickets for Victoria's classes, which cost £50 and include a lunch, are available to purchase on her website.