If you have ever dreamed of filling your week with colour, creativity and new friends, learning how to start a community art club is a brilliant place to begin. You do not need a huge budget or a fancy studio – just a spark of enthusiasm and a plan to turn it into something joyful.
Why start a community art club?
Before you dive into the details of how to start a community art club, it helps to know your why. Maybe you want a regular excuse to paint instead of scrolling, or you would love to give local children a playful, arty space after school. Perhaps you simply miss the buzz of making things with other people.
A community art club can:
- Bring neighbours together in a relaxed, friendly setting
- Give people of all ages a creative outlet
- Support mental wellbeing through mindful making
- Turn quiet community spaces into colourful hubs of activity
Some groups, such as Brick Club, show how hands on, creative meet ups can grow into a real highlight of the week for families and young makers.
Planning how to start a community art club
Once you are sure you want to go for it, planning is your next playful step. Grab a notebook, a rainbow of pens and sketch out the basics:
- Who is it for? Children, adults, or a mix? Beginners only, or all levels?
- How often? Weekly, fortnightly or monthly sessions keep things regular without being overwhelming.
- Where? Community halls, libraries, church halls and school spaces are often affordable and welcoming.
- When? Evenings suit adults, while after school or Saturday mornings work well for families.
As you map this out, keep it light and flexible. The joy of learning how to start a community art club is that you can tweak things as you go and see what your group enjoys most.
Choosing colourful, low stress activities
Next, plan what you will actually make. Start with simple, low pressure projects that do not demand perfect drawing skills or expensive materials. Think bold colour, big shapes and playful experimentation.
Fun first session ideas include:
- Collaborative murals on big rolls of paper spread across tables
- Fruit and veg stamping with bright poster paints
- Collage using old magazines, scrap paper and fabric
- Watercolour postcards people can take home or swap
Rotate between painting, collage, printmaking and simple sculpture so there is always something fresh and fruity on offer. Keep instructions clear but loose, and always leave room for people to follow their own ideas.
Gathering materials on a budget
One of the biggest worries when people think about how to start a community art club is cost. The good news is you can build a brilliant stash of supplies without emptying your wallet.
Try these ideas:
- Ask friends and neighbours to donate spare art materials
- Use recycled jars, cardboard and packaging in projects
- Buy basics like paints and brushes in bulk where possible
- Charge a small fee per session to cover ongoing supplies
You can also invite members to bring their own favourite tools, like sketchbooks or pens, while you provide the shared, messier materials such as paint and glue.
Creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere
The secret ingredient in how to start a community art club that lasts is not fancy kit, it is atmosphere. From the moment people walk in, you want them to feel relaxed and ready to play.
Small touches make a big difference:
- Colourful tablecloths or paper to instantly brighten the room
- Upbeat background music at a gentle volume
- Jugs of squash, tea and bowls of biscuits or fruit
- Name stickers so people can chat easily
Celebrate process over perfection. Encourage people to share what they are working on, but never force anyone to show their art if they feel shy. A kind, encouraging tone from you will set the mood for the whole group.
How to start a community art club FAQs
Do I need to be a professional artist to start a community art club?
You do not need to be a professional artist to start a community art club. As long as you enjoy making things and can organise simple projects, you can host a welcoming space. Focus on easy, colourful activities, invite others to share skills, and keep the atmosphere relaxed rather than formal or academic.
How can I keep costs low when running a community art club?
To keep costs low, use recycled materials, ask for donations of spare art supplies, and choose projects that rely on affordable basics like paper, poster paint and glue. A small session fee can help cover ongoing costs, and you can encourage members to bring their own sketchbooks or favourite tools.
What is the best venue for a new community art club?
The best venue for a new community art club is a space that is easy to reach, with tables, chairs, good light and a floor that can cope with a bit of mess. Community halls, libraries, church rooms and school spaces are all good options. Make sure there is access to water for washing brushes and enough room for people to spread out comfortably.