Carlisle

classes: Painting

About Me & My Craft

I was born in Moscow in 1969, and creativity has run through me for as long as I can recall. Funny enough, the piano was my very first love – and I still play quite well today – but as I grew through my teens, I felt art calling louder than ever. I quickly discovered a natural flair for portraits, and knew this was where my heart belonged.

I trained as a secondary art teacher, and after relocating to the UK, I’ve spent years supporting children with special educational needs – work that shapes every bit of how I teach today. I’ve also held maternity roles at both state and private schools, including Carlisle’s Austin Friars.

Three years ago I founded Paint with Victoria, and what an adventure it’s been: I’ve now taught over 3000 students, and hold a flawless 100% review rating on Facebook. I’m immensely proud of what my students create – their results are honestly some of the very best you’ll find anywhere in the country. Even compared to well-known names in our field, the work we produce together stands apart.

What makes my classes truly special is their versatility. We can build art entirely from scratch, step-by-step – like my beloved Lake District scenes, where I demonstrate every stage and we paint together. Or, for those who prefer guidance, I pre-sketch every canvas individually, then work alongside you to bring it to life. I teach across oils, charcoal, watercolours and more – including a unique, fast oil technique perfect for tattooists, illustrators and professional artists looking to expand their creative toolkit. We explore everything from brush pressure and technique to palette knives and textured pastes for bold, striking finishes.

I run workshops for every kind of group: young farmers, GPs, lawyers, NHS staff, school wellbeing teams, parents, children and teens – plus monthly creative sessions for elderly residents in local care homes.

Above all, I believe art is for everyone. Whether you’ve never picked up a brush or you’re a seasoned creator, I can’t wait to help you make something wonderful.

Classes