What this is (and isn’t)
This is not an art school. Or a sip-and-paint experience.
The Art Story is a structured creative journey designed to help you reconnect with expression, intuition, and meaning through art.
We focus on process, not perfection. Exploration, not instruction. Depth, not decoration.
You don’t come here to “learn how to paint properly”.
You come here to see what happens when you give yourself permission to create.
Who this is for
This space is for you if you feel creatively blocked or disconnected. If art used to be part of your life and you’d like to return to it, this is the place. Or if you’re simply looking for a calm, supportive space to explore creatively.
It’s for people who are tired of comparison and pressure and want to make work that feels honest and personal, rather than copying someone else’s style.
“One of the greatest strengths of her classes, for me, was the freedom to express and explore oneself. There were no restrictive rules, only support and guidance where needed. This allowed each of us to capture a truly unique part of ourselves on canvas and to feel pleasantly surprised by our individual creations.”
Annaliese (Gordon’s Bay)
You do not need talent.
You do not need confidence.
You do not need a plan.
The process is the plan.
This might not be for you if…
This studio may not be the right fit if you’re looking for quick results or step-by-step painting formulas. It’s also not suited to competitive or outcome-driven instruction. If your main goal is to copy reference images as closely as possible, this approach may feel limiting.
The Art Story is for those who value depth, exploration, and personal process over quick outcomes.
So what are our courses like?
Our courses are intentionally designed as journeys, not drop-in classes.
Each programme includes:
• Guided weekly sessions in a small, supportive group
• A focus on experimentation and personal expression
• Individual attention and gentle facilitation
• A final exhibition or presentation of your work
You will leave with:
• Greater creative confidence
• A body of work that reflects your voice
• A renewed relationship with making
• A sense of clarity and self-trust
This is art as practice, not performance.
“This experience has been pivotal in my creative process. Mari inspires fun and daring, opening up a whole new way of painting.
Very well worth it.”
Theresa Dold (Stellenbosch)
What a typical session looks like
Each session is thoughtfully structured to support both creative exploration and skill development.
Early sessions focus on learning and experimenting with specific drawing and painting techniques, using a wide range of materials. Students are guided through practical exercises that build confidence and understanding, without pressure or rigid instruction.
As the course progresses, these skills are applied within each person’s own work. Ideas are developed gradually, with individual guidance and feedback throughout.
There is time for focused making, reflection, and discussion.
Learning happens through doing.
Progress is supported, not rushed.
Skills you develop along the way:
• Confident use of drawing and painting tools
• Practical understanding of colour mixing and application
• Visual problem-solving and idea development
• Applying technique in service of personal expression
“I absolutely enjoyed my experience, even though I was more often outside my comfort zone. My main objective was to broaden my ideas and scope and it has definitely ticked all the boxes. My comfort zone has broadened and I do feel a lot ‘braver’ than before… I may be ready for the next challenge! Thanks for a great experience.”
Leslie Hollard (Somerset West)
Explore our Courses below
Creative Journey for Adults
An 8-week guided programme focused on self-expression, exploration, and creative confidence, culminating in a final acrylic painting.
Art for Teens
A supportive programme for young artists focused on skill development, confidence, and portfolio growth.
Online Art Coaching
A personalised, supportive offering designed to guide you through your creative process at your own pace.
Open Studio Sessions
An opportunity for you to work on your art at the studio under my guidance.
Click below to explore, or whatsapp me to find out more!
Location & Community
The Art Story is based in the Woodshed Art Gallery & Venue, Somerset West, Cape Town, and serves the surrounding communities.
This is a local studio with a strong sense of belonging.
Many students return again and again.
You are not a number here.
You are part of a creative circle.
“Mari het ons geleer van lyn, kleur en tegniek, en ons so subtiel gelei om ons eie stories te skilder. Sy het my bewus gemaak, los gemaak en nuwe kwashale gegee om vryer te skep. Dankie, Mari, en al die AMAZING vroue wat saam geskilder het. Die afgelope weke was ’n mooi ervaring.”
Amanda Loubser (Somerset West)
You do not need to wait until you feel “ready”.
You only need to start.
Do you have more questions?
Do I need art experience to join The Art Story?
No prior art experience is required. The Art Story welcomes beginners and experienced artists, focusing on process, exploration, and personal expression rather than perfection.
What makes The Art Story different from other art studios?
The Art Story is not a traditional art school or a paint-and-wine studio. It offers structured creative journeys with small groups, gentle guidance, and an emphasis on process, meaning, and creative confidence.
What happens in a typical art class session?
Each session begins with a short check-in and a creative prompt. You then explore materials and ideas at your own pace, with guidance available throughout. There is time for experimentation, reflection, and quiet focus, without pressure to finish in one session.
Are materials included in the art classes?
The adult course supplies all essential materials, enabling you to focus on the creative process without the need to buy additional supplies. In contrast, the open studio and teen classes do not include materials.
Where is The Art Story located?
The Art Story is located in The Woodshed Art Gallery & Venue, a quiet and peaceful space close to the Vergelegen Plein Shopping Centre. We serve nearby areas including Somerset West, Strand, and Gordon’s Bay.
How do I get started?
Start by exploring the courses or booking a chat with me. This is simply an informal and pressure-free video conversation, designed to help you decide if The Art Story is the right fit.
“It was an amazing experience attending the classes. Mari has so much creative experience and knowledge which she generously shares.
Everytime I look at my painting I am still amazed at the end result and what the process meant to me creatively and spiritually.”
Cecile Carreira
info@theartstory.co.za
079 861 9467
The Woodshed Art Gallery & Venue
8 Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Somerset West
Want more information about upcoming courses?
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