Art in the Park Derby has been operating within the council-owned grounds of Markeaton Park for over six years, but its roots in the local community extend back to its founding in 2013. As an active participant in Derby's creative economy, the independent business collaborates with Derby City Council initiatives and works closely with the Derby Market Hall. Now, the team wants to ensure every Derby and Derbyshire resident knows the community resources and creative spaces available to them.
Classes as a Family Anchor
Given its central location in Markeaton Park, the hub's classes serve as an anchor for a family day out or a relaxing afternoon. Whether entertaining children or finding a new mindful hobby, Art in the Park has structured upcoming schedules into two streams: Children/Families and specialised art workshops for adults aged 16 and above.
Children Art Classes
Saturday classes run from 10:30 to 12:00 and 12:30 to 2:00, costing £15 per session. Themes include: July 4: Rolls Royce Motors; July 11: Cromford watermill; July 18: Cosy Denby Pottery; July 25: Heage windmill at dusk; August 1: Royal Elegance.
Manga Art Classes for Children
Sunday manga classes run from 10:00 to 12:00, priced at £20 for one or £34 for two. Schedule: July 19: The Morning Bark-fast; August 23: Your character in Kimono; September 27: Girl with Blue Dragon; October 25: Mystic Moon Samurai; November 22: Mystic Forest Box; December 13: Twilight Cherry Blossoms.
Autumn 2026 Curriculum for Adults and 16+
Returning students pay £340 or £32 per session; new students pay £370 or £34 per session. Classes run Monday 13:20-16:20, Tuesday 9:30-12:30, Wednesday 9:30-12:30, Thursday 9:30-12:30 and 13:20-16:20. The 12-week course offers structured, progressive tuition in drawing and painting techniques:
Week 1 (Sept 14-17): Pencil - Animal
Week 2 (Sept 21-24): Pencil/Pen - Whitby Abbey
Week 3 (Sept 28-Oct 1): Soft Pastel - Raven
Week 4 (Oct 5-8): Oil Pastels - Seascape
Week 5 (Oct 12-15): Watercolour - Autumn Leaves
Week 6 (Oct 19-22): Watercolour - Dracula's Castle
Week 7 (Nov 2-5): Watercolour - Christmas Cards
Week 8 (Nov 9-12): Watercolour - Sheep Dog
Week 9 (Nov 16-19): Acrylic - Queen Anne's Lace
Week 10 (Nov 23-26): Acrylic - Cow
Week 11 (Nov 30-Dec 3): Acrylic - Tree Reflections
Week 12 (Dec 7-10): Oil Paints - Tonal Portrait
Supporting an Independent Business
By stepping inside the studio, participants not only learn new skills but also support an independent business that has spent over a decade keeping Derbyshire vibrant. For more information, visit artintheparkderby.co.uk or email info@artintheparkderby.co.uk. The studio is located at Art in the Park Derby, Markeaton Park, The Craft Village, DE22 3BG.
