DMU's art clubs go online with free classes for children and adults

Every Saturday, children across Leicester spent two hours getting crafty thanks to free art clubs run in the city.

Now that everyone’s in lockdown, De Montfort University Leicester (DMU)’s public engagement team DMU Local has worked with artists to move their classes online.


Children will get their weekly dose of inspiration and ideas on Saturdays from 10am to 12noon while an adult class will be run online on Wednesdays teaching painting and drawing free. All classes will be held on DMU’s YouTube channel. 

The first class goes online on Saturday at 10am for children with a special craft project being taught by Jonjo Elliott, DMU graduate and artist. Adults can learn how about painting and perspective on Wednesday May 13. The classes will both be released at 10am but can be viewed at any time after that.

Jonjo also manages Leicester’s StudionAme in St Matthews, one of four centres which would normally host DMU Local Saturday art clubs. The others are in Fosse, Thurnby Lodge and Beaumont Leys.  



Jonjo, an international artist whose work is sold around the world, said: “We are trying to use things that most people would have at home – cardboard, milk cartons, a bit of paint and the like.



“We are hoping to recreate the vibes from Saturday Art Club where it’s fun and you learn things but it’s not serious! 

“Art is about having fun. It’s about being creative, having a go and these sessions are for everyone, adults as much as children will get something out of them.”  

Mark Charlton,

Associate Director of Public Engagement, said: “We know how many children and their families love Saturday Art Club and hopefully these video projects will help keep us all going during lockdown. Big thanks to Jonjo and the team for putting these online – they are doing some great work!”