We have had an expression of interest in starting a new art group in 2026. We will provide details and update this webpage in due course. The day/time and venue should remain the same as below.
Until winter 2024 the art group typically met on Thursdays from 1.30-3.30 at the Botanic Cottage which is inside the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh. It is a wonderful, accessible space, with a short walk through the gardens to the cottage (mobility buggies and wheelchairs available – get in touch if you would like to know more about this).
The group was led by branch member Lindsay, a qualified artist and illustrator, who set a topic for each session (although people were encouraged to create whatever they would like). When the weather was nice those in the class often sat outside in the beautiful gardens, as shown by the image below.
Beginners were more than welcome, and whilst were asked to bring their own materials, there was a collection of things that could be lent during the sessions, to get people started.
We have been given permission to share a couple of examples from the Art Group:
Additional Venue Information
Classes will be held at the Botanic Cottage where there are access toilets available. The groups would currently consist of up to 6 participants with volunteer support.
Botanic Cottage is situated within the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh. Attendees should arrive at the RBGE main visitor entrance The John Hope Gateway on Arboretum Place where there are designated blue badge parking bays available or paid parking facilities (www.rbge.org.uk/visit)
A limited number of Mobility buggies and manual wheelchairs can be reserved at the visitor entrances by booking in advance with the Visitor Team from this number 0131 248 2909 or by emailing visitowelcome@rbge.org.uk
Coordination & Attendance
Our Art Group Volunteer will coordinate participation and timings for art sessions. You will need to email them when you want to attend, and if you need a table and/or chair (see below) from the Botanic Cottage.
Facilities and equipment
Strong folding chairs and outside tables have been purchased for group use.
Refreshments can be purchased at the East Gate kiosk, the West Gate café, and the kiosk at Inverleith House.
The Cottage was formally opened by HRH The Princess Royal in December 2016 when she found time to pop in and chat with the Group.
The Group aims to organise an annual exhibition of their work with net proceeds being donated to the Branch. The Group’s last exhibition was held in October 2019 at the popular Bon Papillon Café/Gallery, Howe Street, Edinburgh where they sold 26 items and generously donated the net proceeds of £1,029 to the Branch, a sum significantly more than in previous years and a great effort much appreciated by the Branch.