About Art Teachers in Harewood
Welcome to The Thirsty Learner - a warm, friendly space for adult art classes in Harewood, created for people who want to slow down, try something new, and enjoy being creative in good company. Founded in 2025, our in-person art classes are thoughtfully planned and held in the beautiful setting of Harewood Village Hall. They’re led by experienced, encouraging teachers who care just as much about confidence and enjoyment as they do about technique. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the very first time or returning to creativity after many years away, you’ll be made to feel welcome from the moment you walk through the door.
Our Story
The Thirsty Learner was founded by Lisa Stubbs with a simple idea: learning should feel welcoming, sociable and achievable at any stage of life.
The classes were created for adults who want to enjoy art without pressure or perfection - just time to learn, explore and relax in a supportive environment. From the beginning, the aim has been to create a space where people feel comfortable coming along on their own, knowing they’ll be greeted with warmth, guidance and encouragement.
Our termly programmes are carefully structured, giving you time to build skills, grow in confidence and genuinely look forward to coming back each week.
What We Are All About
At The Thirsty Learner, everything we do is guided by a clear set of values that shape our classes, our teaching style, and the experience we create for every learner.
Inclusive and welcoming
Our classes are open to everyone. Beginners are always welcome, and no previous experience is needed - just a willingness to have a go.
Friendly and social
Creativity thrives in a relaxed atmosphere. Our sessions are calm, friendly and sociable, with plenty of encouragement along the way.
Thoughtfully structured learning
Our termly courses give you time to explore techniques, practise skills and see real progress without feeling rushed.
Community and well-being
Being creative is good for confidence and well-being. We’re proud to be rooted in the local community and to support charitable causes through Gifted Smile.
Meet the Team Behind The Thirsty Learner
Hannah Merrill, Lead Art Teacher
Hannah is our lead art teacher and a highly skilled fine artist specialising in painting. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art with Honours from New York, and her work is regularly exhibited and sold across Yorkshire and internationally.
In the classroom, Hannah is calm, encouraging and wonderfully supportive. She gently guides learners to discover their own style, sharing practical techniques while creating a relaxed environment where everyone feels at ease.
Jackie Smith, Guest Art Teacher
From time to time, we’re joined by guest art teacher Jackie Smith. Jackie is a passionate artist and designer with an exceptional background in education and the creative industries.
She has led art departments to outstanding A-level results, worked as an examiner, and is also a highly respected production designer in television and film. Her work includes leading design teams on well-known series such as All Creatures Great and Small and Vera.
Lisa Stubbs, Founder and Class Organiser
Lisa is the founder of The Thirsty Learner and your main point of contact. If you have questions about class dates, materials or anything at all, she’s always happy to help.
Although Lisa isn’t an artist herself, she’s present at every class to make sure everything runs smoothly - and to keep everyone refreshed while they work!
A mum of two boys (and Cooper, our class dog), Lisa loves the outdoors and regularly walks the beautiful surroundings of Harewood. She works closely with Hannah and Jackie to make sure the classes stay welcoming, well-organised and enjoyable, week after week.
Cooper, Our Class Dog
From time to time, Cooper — our much-loved and very friendly working cocker spaniel - may join us for certain classes. He usually prefers to relax quietly in his bed and enjoy the company rather than take part in the artwork.
Your comfort always comes first. If you have allergies or would rather Cooper not be present, just let us know - it’s absolutely no problem.
What Makes Our Art Classes Different
The Thirsty Learner offers something truly special for people searching for art classes near Leeds and the surrounding areas:
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Expert-led teaching from professional artists
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Structured termly programmes, not one-off sessions
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A beautiful countryside venue
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A warm, friendly, and social environment
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Inclusive classes suitable for all abilities
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Support for local charities through Gifted Smile
Our location also means learners can enjoy a full day out, with a café and surrounding facilities nearby, making our adult art classes a creative and enriching experience.
Join Our Art Classes
If you are looking for art classes or a welcoming creative space in Harewood, we would love to hear from you.
You can book your place online, get in touch with any questions, or contact us directly to find out more about our current and upcoming classes.
Phone: 07809 827324
Email: hello@thirstylearner.com