ART SCHOOL
WELCOME TO NOOSA ART SCHOOL
Noosa Art School is a dynamic offering of Noosa Art Gallery, created as a welcoming space to nurture artistic flow and connection. Located in Noosaville, it blends inspiration from a curated gallery of acclaimed artists with the creative energy of a working studio—providing a warm and inviting environment for artistic practice. Designed for artists of all levels, it offers classes, workshops, and community events that encourage growth and personal expression. With a focus on creativity and connection, Noosa Art School extends the gallery’s vision—bringing people together through arts practice, shared experience, and creative flow.
Warm welcome!
We’re excited to share our 2026 course offerings—designed for artists of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced creatives.
I’m Luke Deacon, a professional artist, gallery director, and registered Art Teacher. I graduated with a BA in Visual Arts in 1999, majoring in Painting, completing my Honours year in Japan, where I studied brush painting and ceramic. I later returned to Australia to complete a Bachelor of Teaching, specialising in Art Education. With over 25 years of experience as a practicing artist and educator, I’m delighted to now offer classes through our own art school—Noosa Art School—a space created to inspire, uplift, and enrich your creative journey.
All classes are relaxed and welcoming. Enjoy a chai while building your creative confidence and foundational skills.
Life Drawing and Oil Painting are perfect for developing technical abilities in drawing and painting.
Colour and Chaos is ideal if you’re looking to explore expressive, intuitive, and more abstract approaches.
Paint and Chai offers a calming, daytime class to simply unwind and enjoy making art.
Youth classes are tailored for ages 8–14, and teens are welcome to join adult classes if they’re ready.
There’s always plenty of inspiration on offer at the gallery, with a highly talented collective of artists showcased in our rotating themed exhibitions.
If you have any questions, please reach out—we’re here to support your creative unfolding.
Hope to see you soon at Noosa Art School!
Luke Deacon
Noosa Art Gallery Director
and School founder
TERM 1 courses 2026
Find our art schools course offerings below. There are stricly limited numbers to each course for each term and early bookings are advised to avoid dissapointment. If you find a course is marked as booked out and would like to go onto our wait list please send us a quick message to info@noosartgallery.com.au
The Life Drawing Course ( Term 1), is an 8-week journey into the art of figure drawing, designed for all levels, from beginners to experienced artists. Through progressive lessons, students will refine their skills in gesture, proportion, anatomy, and composition. The course begins with quick sketches to capture movement and energy before advancing to structure, light, shadow, and expressive mark-making. Participants will explore foreshortening, perspective, and anatomical accuracy, developing confidence in both realism and abstraction. The final sessions focus on personal artistic expression, culminating in a refined life drawing or expressive series. With guidance, students will enhance their observational skills, artistic techniques, and creative voice in a supportive studio environment. Whether aiming to master fundamentals or push stylistic boundaries, this course offers a dynamic and engaging exploration of the human form.
This course is designed to support all levels, from beginners to experienced artists, with personalized guidance and progressive challenges
$35 per session x 8 weeks. Bring a friend 10% off for you and a friend. Use code 10FRIEND.
Next Classes start: Thursday 5th Feb - March 26th, 6- 7:30 pm ( for 8 weeks)
Easels, Stools, drawing, boards, clips and paper provided.
Early booking advised as classes do fill and class sizes limited
What to bring:
Pencils, charcoal, erasers
About Luke Deacon
Luke Deacon is a licensed art teacher and accomplished artist with over 20 years of international teaching experience. Based in the Noosa Hinterland, his work is deeply inspired by the coastal landscape. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Teaching, having studied under renowned Abstract Expressionist Bruce Vinall. Awarded a scholarship to study Asian Art in Japan, he explored Zen painting, ceramics, Japanese calligraphy, and art history. His teaching blends traditional techniques with expressive, contemporary approaches, fostering creativity, confidence, and artistic growth. Luke’s courses provide expert guidance for all skill levels in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Life Drawing- THE ART OF SEEING
The Life Drawing is a journey into the art of figure drawing, designed for all levels, from beginners to experienced artists. Through progressive lessons, students will refine their skills in gesture, proportion, anatomy, and composition. The course begins with quick sketches to capture movement and energy before advancing to structure, light, shadow, and expressive mark-making. Participants will explore foreshortening, perspective, and anatomical accuracy, developing confidence in both realism and abstraction. Later classes further develop skills with option to incorporate gestural painting and mixed media.
Term 1, 2025
Time: 6-7:30 pm
Start date: Thurs 5th Feb
End date: Thurs 26th March. ( 8 weeks)
Cost: $280 includes materials paper, board, clips, easel etc.
Bring: drawing materials- pencils, charcoal eraser etc
Bring a friend 10% OFF! CODE: 10FRIEND
Oil Painting- Essential Oils is a skill-building course designed for beginner/intermediate and those looking to strengthen their technique. Guided by professional artist and educator Luke Deacon, this course introduces the essentials of oil painting in a relaxed and supportive studio environment. You'll explore colour mixing, brushwork, composition, and layering techniques while working from still life, landscape, and reference images. Emphasis is placed on building confidence, understanding materials, and developing your own creative expression through a series of small oil studies and painting exercises. Whether you're completely new or returning to painting, this course offers a strong foundation in traditional methods with space to grow your personal style. All materials provided just show up and relax into the class.
What to bring: All materials provided.
Time: 6-8 pm, Wednesdays, 4th Feb - 25th March ( 8 weeks)
Cost: $400 ( bring a friend 10% off Code: 10 FRIEND)
Early booking advised as class sizes limited
OIL PAINTING- ESSENTIAL OILS
Oil Painting is a skill-building course designed for beginner /intermediate and those looking to strengthen their technique. Guided by professional artist and educator Luke Deacon, this course introduces the essentials of oil painting in a relaxed and supportive studio environment. You'll explore colour mixing, brushwork, composition, and layering techniques while working from still life, landscape, and reference images. Emphasis is placed on building confidence, understanding materials, and developing your own creative expression. Whether you're completely new or returning to painting, this course offers a strong foundation in traditional methods with space to grow your personal style. All materials provided.
Term 1, 2026
Time: 6-8 pm
Start date: Wed 4th February
End date: Wed 25th March ( 8 weeks)
Cost: $400- ALL MATERIALS SUPPLIED (canvas, paint, brushes etc)
Bring: A4 journal for note taking and exercises
Bring a friend 10% OFF! CODE: 10FRIEND
Color and Chaos – Expressive Painting (Term 1) is an 8-week course designed for both returning and new students eager to deepen their expressive and abstract painting skills. Participants will explore advanced color theory, layering, composition, and gesture-based techniques while developing their personal artistic voice. Each session combines structured lessons, live demonstrations, and guided exercises, encouraging creative risk-taking and artistic growth. Students will experiment with texture, mixed media, and large-scale works, culminating in a final showcase of their pieces. More than just a course, Color and Chaos is a thriving artistic community where collaboration and inspiration flourish. Through ongoing group discussions and one-on-one feedback, students gain confidence in their techniques and self-expression. Whether refining existing skills or discovering new approaches, this course offers a dynamic and supportive environment for artists looking to push creative boundaries. Enroll now and be part of this vibrant journey at Noosa Art School!
What to bring:A set of basic acrylic colors- blue, yellow, red, burnt umber, white, black and any colors you like
( brands recommended: A2, atelier or matisse) ,
a range of brushes ( bristle and smooth)
A3 sketch book
Painting canvases
some materials will be provided for specific exercises.
Special Offer
BRING A FRIEND 10% OFF add code: 10FRIEND at checkout.8 week Term. - $400
Time starting: Tuesday 6-8 pm, 3rd Feb- 24th March, 2025.
Tutor:
Luke Deacon is a licensed art teacher and accomplished artist with over 20 years of international teaching experience. Based in the Noosa Hinterland, his work is deeply inspired by the coastal landscape. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Teaching, having studied under renowned Abstract Expressionist Bruce Vinall. Awarded a scholarship to study Asian Art in Japan, he explored Zen painting, ceramics, Japanese calligraphy, and art history. His teaching blends traditional techniques with expressive, contemporary approaches, fostering creativity, confidence, and artistic growth. Luke’s courses provide expert guidance for all skill levels in a supportive, inspiring environment.
COLOR AND CHAOS- expressive painting
Color and Chaos – Expressive Painting is an 8-week course designed for both returning and new students eager to deepen their expressive and abstract painting skills. Participants will explore advanced color theory, layering, composition, mixed media and gesture-based techniques while developing their personal artistic voice. Each session combines structured lessons, live demonstrations, and guided exercises, encouraging creative risk-taking and artistic growth. Students will experiment with texture, mixed media, and large-scale works, culminating in a final showcase of their pieces.
Term 1, 2026
Time: 6-8 pm
Start date: Tues 3rd Feb
End date: Tues 24th March. ( 8 weeks)
Cost: $400
Bring: Journal A3, Basic acrylics and brushes
Bring a friend 10% OFF! CODE: 10FRIEND
Painting and Chai (Term 3)
The Acrylic Painting Course is an 8-week journey designed to build confidence and skill in acrylic techniques. Starting with an introduction to materials and basic brushwork, students will explore color theory, composition, and underpainting to create depth and balance in their work. As the course progresses, participants refine their understanding of light, shadow, blending, and expressive brush techniques. Through guided exercises, students experiment with different styles, from still life, portraiture, landscape and abstract, while developing their personal artistic voice. The final sessions focus on layering, refining details, and completing a finished painting with individual feedback and group critique. This course provides a supportive environment for both beginners and experienced artists to enhance their creativity and technical abilities in acrylic painting.
This course builds confidence in acrylic painting while encouraging personal exploration.
Tea master Kelly will supply of organic herbal teas to sooth ourselves into our painting.
Suitable for mature teens to Adults at all stages.
All painting materials supplied.
BYO:
A3 sketch book and pencil for note taking
Bring a friend 10% off. Code is 10 FRIEND
COST: $50 per class x 8, $400 for the term.
8 week course starting - Tues 3rd Feb - 24th March, 12 noon till 2 pm.
Strictly limited numbers early booking advised
About Luke Deacon
Luke Deacon is a licensed art teacher and accomplished artist with over 20 years of international teaching experience. Based in the Noosa Hinterland, his work is deeply inspired by the coastal landscape. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Teaching, having studied under renowned Abstract Expressionist Bruce Vinall. Awarded a scholarship to study Asian Art in Japan, he explored Zen painting, ceramics, Japanese calligraphy, and art history. His teaching blends traditional techniques with expressive, contemporary approaches, fostering creativity, confidence, and artistic growth. Luke’s courses provide expert guidance for all skill levels in a supportive, inspiring environment.
PAINT n CHAI
This is a relaxed Acrylic Painting designed to build confidence and skill in acrylic techniques. Starting with an introduction to materials and basic brushwork, students will explore color theory, composition, and underpainting to create depth and balance in their work. As the course progresses, participants refine their understanding of light, shadow, blending, and expressive brush techniques. Through guided exercises, students experiment with different styles, from still life to abstract, while developing their personal artistic voice
Term 1, 2026
Time: 12-2pm
Start date: Tues 3rd Feb
End date: Tues 24th March( 8 weeks)
Cost: $400
ALL MATERIALS SUPPLIED
Bring: A3 art journal and pencil for notetaking
Bring a friend 10% OFF! CODE: 10FRIEND
Our approach blends artistic exploration with hands-on learning, encouraging children to express themselves freely while developing essential skills. Whether in the classroom or the studio, we strive to create an environment where curiosity thrives, confidence grows, and every child feels empowered to create.
Join us on this journey of artistic discovery—where learning is vibrant, joyful, and filled with possibility!
This course will introduce young artists to the basics of painting while allowing them to explore different themes and creative concepts through fun, themed projects.
Skills will include accuracy in drawing and painting, values and color mixing and personal expression.
Themes will include pet/ animal portraits, still life, abstract painting colour and colour exercises, portrait and landscape painting.
We also include hand building clay work during the term.
Materials will includes acrylic, water color painting, drawing, clay and mixed media.
This course is designed to help young artists gain confidence in their creative abilities, with lots of fun and freedom to explore different painting styles.
This class includes all materials including paint, canvas, clay and paper.
This class is suitable for children 8-14 years old. This is a drop off class with a licensed and registered teacher.
Cost: $40 per session (8 weeks $320)
Bring a friend: 10% off, Code is 10FRIEND
Time: Tuesdays, 3rd Feb - 26th March, 4:00 pm till 5:30 pm
Numbers strictly limited- book early to avoid disappointment.
About Luke
Luke Deacon is a highly experienced art educator with over 20 years of teaching children worldwide. As a licensed art teacher, he combines his artistic passion with a deep understanding of child development, creating engaging and inspiring lessons. Luke’s approach fosters creativity, confidence, and self-expression, encouraging young artists to explore their unique abilities. His background in Fine Arts and teaching, paired with his experience in various cultural settings, allows him to introduce children to a wide range of artistic techniques and concepts. Luke’s nurturing and dynamic teaching style helps children develop a lifelong appreciation for art.
YOUTH ART STUDIO
Youth Art Class is an inspiring weekly session designed for young creatives aged 8–14. Led by professional artist and registered art educator Luke Deacon, this class nurtures artistic skills while encouraging imagination, confidence, and self-expression. Students will explore a wide range of mediums including drawing, painting, collage, and mixed media, while learning foundational techniques such as shading, colour theory, composition, and creative thinking. Each term includes exciting themed projects and opportunities to develop individual style. The atmosphere is relaxed, supportive, and filled with encouragement—perfect for budding artists to flourish while having fun. All materials are provided.
Term 1, 2026
Time: 4:00 - 5:30 pm
Start date: Tues 3rd Feb
End date: Tues 24th March ( 8 weeks)
Cost: $320 ALL MATERIALS SUPPLIED
Bring a friend 10% OFF! CODE: 10FRIEND
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“Luke is a fabulous artist and teacher. His patience and calm nature helped me learn the basics at my own pace, without pressure. I would highly recommend any of Luke's classes and thank him for making everything so enjoyable. Thank you!” -Silke
“Loved the four different projects we were involved with - I think I might have to become an oil painter!” -Liz
“Luke is a great teacher. I enjoyed the classes and learnt so many tips and tricks along the way. Very grateful”
“I was feeling very supported and encouraged by the thoughtful and considered feedback given.” - Lenore
“I found Luke an excellent communicator and art teacher. I learnt so much on layering and technique. The venue is excellent, perhaps better natural light would be an alternative. I was a visitor from Melbourne and when a return next year I will enrol in another. I enjoyed painting with music and the other participants. Well done Luke.” Cheers Steve
“My Daughter Maddison took a moment to warm into the class and now absolutely loved it and cant wait to do it again. Luke is very calm, patient, and good at being clear with instruction but also lets Maddie explore her ideas as well which makes it an unique experience to her . Thank you so much in offering these classes Maddie has had a great time and has learnt so much. Luke is fantastic.” - Kelly
“Thank you Luke for a most enjoyable weekend. Every aspect of the weekend workshop was carefully planned to bring out the best in those taking part. I especially liked the exercises which made the expressive approach to the landscape attainable.” - Erica
“I participated in Luke’s expressive painting course in term one 2025. The course was informative and fun and Luke is an excellent teacher and artist. I would love to participate in one of Luke’s courses in the future.” Kathryn Smith
“My kids loved the classes, nice calm atmosphere and loved the different mediums”- Eve
“The Life Drawing course at Noosa Gallery was fantastic. Luke is welcoming and provides a great atmosphere .There was a good variety of models and exercises. I would highly recommend the course .?I will be back.” - Jenny