More than leisure.
An investment in the mind, a gift to the soul.
An investment in the mind, a gift to the soul.
Weekly art classes, guided sketching
& art talks in Reading
Book a class & art talks in Reading
Cultural Layer is a creative space in Reading where art becomes a form of self-care.
We host weekly oil painting classes, guided sketching sessions and small cultural gatherings.
Our events are calm, friendly and beginner-friendly — you don’t need experience to join.
Our events are calm, friendly and beginner-friendly — you don’t need experience to join.
Art helps you slow down, focus and reconnect with yourself.
We simply guide you through the process.
We simply guide you through the process.
- Materials included. Small groups. A warm community.
- Ready to try? Scroll down to upcoming sessions.
What we offer
- Oil Painting LessonsRelaxing evening classes with a professional artist.
Learn colour mixing, composition and oil technique in a supportive atmosphere.
All materials included. - Guided SketchingA mindful drawing practice for curious minds.
Urban sketching, visual diaries, gentle guidance.
Perfect for beginners and returning creatives. - Art Talks over CoffeeSmall cultural gatherings about art, ideas and visual thinking.
Informal, inspiring, open to everyone.
All payments are safeguarded by Stripe, the most secure payment provider. We do not access your payment details. Protecting our customers is our top priority.
Moments from our sessions
We work hard every day to make our customers' lives better and happier
ART RETREAT
Searching for the Odyssey is over!
Thank you for join us in this incredible journey.
Searching for the Odyssey is over!
Thank you for join us in this incredible journey.
Our retreat is about resetting, discovering new experiences, and creating new connections — with places, ideas, and ways of seeing. Wherever we go and whatever we do, drawing will be part of every day.
Each participant had received a sketchbook and a set of art materials. Our aim was to help develop the habit of keeping a visual diary: to slow down, observe, and preserve your impressions through drawing.
What we had achieved:
- Finished the whole sketchbook with visual notes and sketches
- Visited historical sites of ancient Lykia
- Learn about antient Gods, Heroes and Myths
Our programme was:
Day 1— Introduction and Antiphellos
10:00 | Welcome meeting and introduction to the programme and participants |
12:00 | Visit to the ancient theatre of Antiphellos. Sketching workshop led by Andrey Novikov |
14:00–16:00 | Break |
16:30 | Lecture: Gods and Heroes of Antiquity — Part I |
Day 2 — Ancient Myra, Demre
09:00 | Transfer to the ancient city of Myra, Demre |
10:30 | Sketching workshop with Andrey Novikov: Proportions and Character of Architecture |
14:00 | Return transfer to Kaş |
15:00–18:00 | Break |
18:30 | Lecture: Gods and Heroes of Antiquity — Part II |
Day 3 — Archaeological Site of Sagalassos
06:00 | Departure for Sagalassos |
08:30 | Breakfast at ManterEvi Café |
09:30 | Continuation of transfer to Sagalassos |
11:00 | Guided archaeological visit and cultural interpretation led by Tamara Golubova |
12:00 | Drawing workshop with Andrey Novikov: Perspective, Tone, Light and Shadow |
13:00 | Break |
14:00 | Practical plein-air drawing session |
17:00 | Departure for Kaş |
18:30 | Dinner break |
19:30 | Continuation of return transfer |
Day 4 — Observational Drawing and Mythology
11:00 | Art brunch and drawing workshop with Andrey Novikov: Draw What You See — Food, Interior Details and Everyday Objects |
15:00 | Break |
18:00 | Lecture: The Psychology of Ancient Myths — Part I |
Day 5 — Harbour Sketching and Programme Conclusion
10:00 | Harbour sketching workshop and practical plein-air session led by Andrey Novikov |
16:00 | Lecture: The Psychology of Ancient Myths — Part II |
18:00 | Farewell dinner |
What our clients say about us
How a session works
- Oil painting Lessons work
- Every 30-minute demo with the artist
- Step-by-step guidance
- Individual support
- Relaxed creative atmosphere
- All materials included
- Take your painting home
- Come once. Stay to grow!
- Sketching SessionFind a cosy spot in the café, settle in with your favourite drink, and let your sketchbook open the door to quiet observation.
We begin with a short introduction from the tutor on how to start your composition. Throughout the session, the tutor will move around the room, offering personalised guidance and gentle feedback.
The aim of this format is simple: to help you build a habit of keeping a personal visual diary — a space for impressions, small discoveries, and your own way of seeing the world. - Art Talk Over a CoffeeAlways been curious about art? It can feel magical — and yet, at times, as if your exhibition ticket should have come with a manual.
Our Art Talk sessions are not lectures in the traditional sense. They are practical, engaging conversations that help you navigate the vast and fascinating landscape of art.
Expect vivid examples from art history, memorable stories, and clear visual explanations.
Become that effortlessly interesting person at a party — the one who can talk about Michelangelo’s temperament or the emotional depth of Rothko.
Contact us:
+44 07436352881
tamara@andreynovikov.net
tamara@andreynovikov.net
Recognized by
leading art institutions and fairs
leading art institutions and fairs
