Abstract painting course, no experience necessary
Creativity and connection are good for us…
Mind, body and soul.
Creative wellbeing and engaging in the arts are just as essential to our health as getting enough sleep, eating well, moving our bodies, or spending time outside in nature.
Learning to let go and have fun
Why Creativity and Connection Are Good for Your Wellbeing
This isn't just something I feel in the studio. In 2019 the World Health Organisation published a review drawing on more than 3,000 studies, and found the arts play a real part in keeping us well, in body and mind. Bringing people together and building connection is a big part of that.
Neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart is really well known. She's written a couple of books and been on loads of podcasts. Her book The Signs is all about intuition, but there's one chapter in particular about creativity, and the science of how creativity and the appreciation of beauty are really good for us.
Creative workshops for corporate teams.
Creative Wellbeing Days for Teams
Businesses and organisations are catching on, too. Many now offer creative wellbeing days for their teams, recognising that engaging in mindful, expressive activities directly supports mental and emotional health.
I've run creative wellbeing days for corporate groups from industries not usually thought of as creative. They had a great time and really appreciated it. If you'd like one for your team, get in touch.
Creativity is a core pillar of brain agility, our ability to adapt, learn, and grow.
When we step away from analysing and planning and let ourselves play, the brain gets room to wander. That's where fresh ideas, new perspectives and creative problem-solving come from.
Embracing the Beginner's Mindset
I've always been a huge advocate of the Beginner's Mindset (Shoshin in Zen Buddhism).
It means letting go of expectations and the pressure to be an expert, and coming to something new with curiosity, openness and play.
As Shunryu Suzuki so beautifully wrote in Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind:
“In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.”
Why I Say "Brilliant!" to Beginners
Whenever someone comes into the studio and tells me, "I've never painted with acrylics," or "I've never done lino cut before," my response is always the same: "Brilliant!"
No experience means you arrive with an open mind. Very often, that's where the most exciting art happens.
A Safe Harbour to Create, Connect and Belong
All of this is why the studio exists. I've made the studio a calm, comfortable and inspiring space where people can gather, create and spend time in mindful activity alongside each other.
Whether it's a structured workshop, a multi-week course, or Studio Friday, I watch participants build their own organic support networks. They share stories, swap ideas, and find a sense of true belonging and safety to explore their creative voices.
That's what's really lovely about the courses and Studio Friday. I can take a step back, observe, and just think, isn't it great how this bunch of people from all different backgrounds are connecting and chatting. It's a joy to witness.
Studio Friday, community art group in Southampton
Studio Friday: A Creative Community in Southampton
Studio Friday in particular has grown so naturally into a rich, inclusive community of artists and makers. It's easily one of the highlights of my week. I never know exactly who is going to step through the door, but when people arrive, settle into their personal projects, and sink into quiet conversation, the energy in the room is magic.
Studio Friday runs every Friday morning. It's just £5 to drop in, so bring your own creative project and enjoy a relaxed, friendly morning with fellow makers.
Playing with creativity
Permission to Play
My philosophy and ethos are simple: to give people permission to play, experiment, and express themselves authentically.
Trust your instincts. Tell your own story. Enjoy the process. Stay present and make art you love, without copying anyone or performing for anyone else.
The Workshop Moment That Said It All
I was reminded of why this matters so deeply during a recent linocut workshop. A participant fully embraced this approach: she let go of the final outcome, did not need to plan, and completely immersed herself in the process. By the end of the day, she had produced a breathtaking series of unique, original prints across vibrant new colourways.
She was thrilled, I was deeply moved, and the moment reinforced everything I stand for: empowering people to believe in themselves and make art like no one else.
Now that is exciting.
How to be creative? It's very much about letting go of the outcome. Most people really appreciate how good it feels to take the pressure off, and given permission to play.
Come and Play at the Studio
If something here has sparked a little curiosity, come and try it. You don't need any experience, just bring yourself.
Get in touch about a creative wellbeing day for your team
And if you'd love an original piece for your own walls, you can buy my prints or get in touch about a commission. You can also read about my painting Buoyant, which is on a poster at Regent's Park Tube station this October.
Questions People Often Ask:
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Not at all. Most of my workshops are made for complete beginners, and having no experience is often the best place to start.
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Yes. I run creative wellbeing days for corporate groups, and no creative experience is needed. Get in touch to talk through what you have in mind.
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Not at all. Most of my workshops are made for complete beginners, and having no experience is often the best place to start.
About Jo
Jo Morley is an abstract artist and printmaker who runs Jo Morley Studio at Kemps Quay, Southampton. She teaches abstract painting, linocut and printmaking to people of all levels, and her painting Buoyant features in Art Below's London Underground campaign.
Before using any open-access sessions or hiring the etching presses independently, a thorough Studio Induction must be completed. This ensures every printmaker is fully familiar with our space, comfortable with the equipment, and safe in their working practices.
What the Induction Covers:
Housekeeping & Good Working Practices: understanding how the studio runs and how to keep a collaborative workspace clean and functional
Health & Safety: proper handling of materials, tools, and studio safety guidelines
Materials & Equipment: a hands-on overview of our specific etching presses and printmaking facilities
Emergency Procedures: essential information on first aid, exits, and studio protocols
Competency & Safety: our goal is to ensure you feel entirely confident and independent in the space. To use open-access sessions, a printmaker must be considered competent, familiar, and safe in using the studio environment. Further information and studio guidelines will be provided both prior to and after booking. Refresher sessions are always available if it's been a while since your last visit or you feel you need a reminder on specific equipment.
📅 Date: Runs alongside Print Day, the last Tuesday of the month (variants: 29 Sept, 27 Oct, 24 Nov, 22 Dec, 26 Jan, 23 Feb)
🕙 Time: 10am - 1pm
💰 Price: £35, one-off payment
Limited to 3 spaces.