Classical online 1-1 Training
Classical Atelier Training of the figure and portrait | Traditional Study of the Horse & Dog | Sporting & Figurative Development
Train in the methods of the great European ateliers - from your own studio, anywhere in the world.
1-1 Private Online Mentorship
A one-to-one mentorship, tailored to your individual goals and level of experience.
The Atelier
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Learn with classically trained artist Nichola Eddery with over twenty years of professional practice and a decade of teaching
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Private, one-to-one mentorship, structured around the individual
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A rigorous, step-by-step approach rooted in nineteenth-century atelier training and its foundations in the Renaissance
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The flexibility to pursue a focused study — portraiture, the figure, the horse, the dog, or the development of a personal body of work
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The ability to train from anywhere in the world, working from your own studio with direct, ongoing guidance
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Only a limited number of students are accepted at any one time to ensure a high level of individual attention
WHO THIS IS FOR
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Serious adult students seeking classical training
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Artists looking for structure, clarity, and meaningful progress
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Those aiming toward a professional standard
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Committed beginners with focus and long-term intent
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Dedicated and talented young students (16+) may be considered
a rare opportunity
Its rare to find a classical atelier training from a teacher who has learnt multiple approaches and offers equal depth across the human figure, the horse, the dog, and broader sporting subjects. Nichola's background as both a classically trained artist and specialist in these fields offers a unique opportunity to study traditional principles within these disciplines.
You can choose to focus on one or multiple subjects:
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Portraiture and the human figure
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The horse and canine form
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Sporting and equestrian subjects
About Nichola
Nichola is a classically trained professional artist, educated at leading ateliers in Italy, France, and the United States.
She is a principal artist at Osborne Studio Gallery, Belgravia, London, and was Artist in Residence at the National Horse Racing Museum (2024–2026), where her work forms part of the permanent collection. Her work has been exhibited widely in the UK and internationally, recognised by the Art Renewal Center, and is held in private collections worldwide.
With over a decade of teaching experience, Nichola has mentored students in-person and online internationally, including students in the UK, Ireland, USA, Japan, Australia and the Middle East. She has led workshops at the Victoria and Albert Museum, British Museum, National Gallery, and the National Horse Racing Museum. Previously, she spent over three years leading and designing classical training programmes at a private London art school that incorporated Chinese Academy training.
“I understand the expense and commitment required to study for several years within the atelier system. For this reason, I have designed programmes that enable students to train from home, anywhere in the world, while balancing personal and professional commitments, without compromising the depth or quality of instruction. I believe the one-to-one format also offers an exceptional level of focus and clarity, allowing students to excel in their progress,” Nichola
To view Nichola's work please visit her Gallery
"To be able to undertake high quality training in classical realism with an exceptional artist such as Nichola through the ease of an online platform has been a dream come true. " Clare, UK, current student
Atelier Programmes
Mentorship is offered across three levels, each designed to suit your individual commitment, goals, and pace of study. Together, the programmes form part of a structured progression within long-term classical atelier training.
Nichola strongly recommends beginning with the fundamentals of drawing, as drawing is the foundation of all artistic disciplines and underpins the success of a painting. From there, students may progress into a core drawing programme, refine their focus within a chosen genre, and later advance into oil painting. Students may choose to specialise in one discipline or develop confidence across several.
Foundation Programmes
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Fundamentals in Drawing (graphite)
Observation, proportion, perspective, light theory, value, planes, form modelling, developed through traditional exercises and still life -
Fundamentals in Oil Painting
Value, colour theory, colour mixing and form painting, edge control and an introduction to the indirect method developed through traditional exercises and still life
Core Programmes
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Classical Atelier Training - Drawing (graphite, charcoal, chalk and sanguine)
Development of skills in portraiture and figure drawing through Bargue plates, casts, anatomy, Old Master studies and working from photographic reference. You will also be taught how to set-up a cast and still life at home, so you can work from life as assignments. -
Classical Atelier Training - Oil Painting
Learning traditional methods in portraiture and the figure painting through cast studies, making Old Master copies and learning how to use the photograph as reference. Exploring limited and extended palette techniques and learning monochromatic and colour studies, direct and indirect painting methods plus compositional development. -
Equine & Canine Study
A classical approach to drawing and oil painting the horse and dog, grounded in structure, anatomy, colour, texture and form. Similar content to classical atelier training.
Development Programmes
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Sporting & Figurative Art
Composition, movement, and narrative within a classical framework -
Professional Development
Portfolio development, presentation, and guidance toward a professional practice
Atelier Philosophy
" A process of directing, correcting and accelerting - guiding each student towards faster, more confident progress"
Programme Structure
Traditional atelier training typically requires three to four years of full-time study, with fees often beginning at £3000 per term. Nichola’s mentorship programmes offer a more flexible and accessible pathway into this tradition — without compromising on depth or rigour.
Students are guided through the same fundamental principles and structured progression, while working at a pace that suits their individual goals and commitments.
Unlike many online programmes that rely heavily on written or recorded critique and limited 1-1 time, this mentorship is built around direct, one-to-one teaching with additional email support allowing for immediate guidance, correction, and clarity at every stage — accelerating both understanding and progress.
1. Monthly Mentorship
2 Private Lessons (2 hr per Session) | 2 Email Critiques | Bespoke Study Plan | Assignments
A structured introduction to classical atelier training, designed to establish fundamental principles and working methods.
An ideal starting point before progressing into longer-term study.
Also suited to ongoing monthly practice for those who prefer a flexible pace while maintaining study alongside professional or personal commitments.
Lessons may be taken as two 2-hour sessions or arranged as four 1-hour sessions, depending on individual preference.
2. Three-Month Development Programme - (Most Popular)
8 Private Lessons (2 hrs per Session) | 4 Email Critiques | Bespoke Study Plan | Assignments | Extra Time to Work on Projects
A structured and progressive programme designed to build strong foundations and develop consistency in practice.
Students are guided through the core principles before progressing into a chosen area of focus, whether portraiture, the figure, or animal studies.
Ideal for those seeking meaningful progress within a defined period, while maintaining flexibility.
3. Six-Month Atelier Programme
16 Private Lessons (2 hrs per Session) | 10 Email Critiques | Bespoke Study Plan | Assignments | Extra Time to Work on Projects
The atelier experience
A comprehensive and immersive period of study, allowing for deeper understanding, refinement, and confident execution in both drawing and painting.
Designed for serious students seeking sustained development and working towards a professional standard.
Please see below how to enrol, pricing and more information.
"I have utterly enjoyed my live online lessons with Nichola over the last few months. Nichola is highly knowledgeable and provides thorough guidance throughout the lessons. Her advice on drawing and painting has been invaluable." Michaela, Abu Dhabi, former student
How online Mentorship works
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Initial consultation and tailored programme
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Live, one-to-one Zoom sessions with direct feedback
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Ongoing guidance and structured assignments
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Flexible scheduling
Preparing for Your Online Lesson
Preparing for Your Online Lesson
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A simple and well-organised workspace will allow you to get the most from your mentorship. The setup does not need to be elaborate—only considered and practical.
Studio Setup
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Easel (a lightweight, portable tripod easel is perfectly suitable)
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Chair and small side table
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Drawing board (wood or foam board) with two clips
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A well-lit space, ideally with natural north-facing light or a consistent artificial light source
Devices & Setup
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A laptop or tablet for communication, reference material, and screen sharing
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A smartphone positioned to clearly show your work during the lesson
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For the best experience, your phone should be mounted on an extension arm clamped to a stand or table, angled directly towards your drawing or painting surface. This allows Nichola to observe your process and provide precise, real-time guidance
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You may join Zoom using both devices; however, please ensure audio is enabled on only one device to avoid echo.
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Please join WhatsApp to share images during the lesson
Nichola will provide specific material lists as required.
Additional Guidance
Please view studio setup example image for reference.
Nichola offers guidance on creating an effective home studio environment and welcomes you to share images of your setup for personalised advice.
What You Will Receive
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A private consultation to establish your goals and direction
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One-to-one mentorship tailored to your level
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A bespoke study plan grounded in classical atelier training
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In-depth critique and correction during each session
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Personalised assignments to support your development
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Demonstrations and clear visual guidance where needed
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Ongoing support, encouragement, and direction
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Portfolio review and development planning
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Insight into professional practice (for those pursuing a career)
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The development of confidence, clarity, and an individual artistic voice
FAQ
1. “Am I good enough and do I need prior experience?"
No. Beginners are welcome. Training begins with fundamental drawing principles and progresses at your pace. Also great for more advanced artists too.
2. “How do the lessons actually work online?”
Lessons are held privately online via Zoom, allowing for direct observation, feedback, and demonstration in real time.
3. “Will this actually help me improve?”
Progress depends on commitment, but students benefit from immediate correction and structured guidance—advancing more efficiently than in group settings.
4. “Is this worth the investment?”
Traditional atelier study typically requires full-time commitment over several years. These programmes offer the same principles in a flexible, tailored format.
5. “How long should I study for?”
It depends on the individual and what they wish to accomplish. Anywhere from three months to four years.
Enquiries
Apply for online Mentorship
Nichola offers a limited number of places each year for private mentorship, allowing for a highly focused, supportive, and personalised learning experience alongside her studio practice.
She warmly welcomes applications from dedicated students at all levels who are seeking to develop their skills through classical training.
To apply, please include:
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A brief introduction
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Current level and any prior training
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Artistic goals
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Area of focus
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Examples of work
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Preferred start timeframe
Please send your application to Nichola at:
"I very much look forward to hearing from you and supporting your development", Nichola
