Learn to paint and draw at the Freihand Art School
The Freihand Atelier is the art school in Cologne-Ehrenfeld focused on realistic painting and drawing. We are your training space, your rehearsal room, your dojo, or your sports field. Because, as in any discipline, the same applies in art: only through regular practice can you make progress. In our atelier, we provide the right environment for you to continuously improve your drawing and painting skills.
What sets us apart from other art schools and ateliers
- Structured and systematic classes for effective learning.
- You won’t be forced into a pre-made curriculum; instead, you can learn what truly interests you.
- Instructions and feedback are provided not only verbally but also through active drawing or painting demonstrations.
- The atelier is equipped with drawing tables and a well-lit stage.
- Our easels are custom-built with integrated shelves, which particularly help beginners maintain the right distance from their paintings.
The advantage over online courses and books
We love books, online courses, and YouTube—but one thing is missing: personal contact and direct feedback. With us, you get just that. We can immediately identify your mistakes as they happen and specifically address your individual challenges.
Structured drawing and painting instruction
Instruction follows a clear content structure but is not rigidly fixed. The structure serves as guidance and is flexibly adapted to your level of experience and your goals.
Depending on your background and focus, you can begin directly with painting or work specifically on subjects such as portrait or figure drawing, without having to complete the entire program.
Benefits of our instruction
- Personal learning plans based on your goals
- Working at your own pace
- Demonstrations
- Verbal and visual feedback
- Small groups with a maximum of 8–10 participants
- A focus on practice, repetition, and long-term development
- Working from life, photos, and still lifes
Individual guidance
The courses are structured so that everyone can work at their own level and benefit from individual support. Tasks are adjusted when needed to address specific areas for improvement, ensuring that all students develop a solid foundation without feeling overwhelmed as projects and concepts become more complex. This allows students of all ages and skill levels to learn together in one course without anyone feeling left behind or held back.
Drawing and painting as a profession
If you are aiming for a career as an illustrator, fashion designer, tattoo artist, or in a related field, you are in the right place. We teach methods that help you draw and paint efficiently and effectively, so you can work creatively, meet deadlines, and develop a confident, independent workflow.
Even if your goal is to work digitally, strong skills in traditional media provide a solid foundation that will improve your digital practice.
Our courses are an ideal complement to an art or design degree, helping you expand your skills, practice regularly, and fill gaps that your studies may not cover.
Art Community and Creative Exchange
We believe in the importance of communal learning, which is why our teachers actively paint and draw alongside you. We work in small groups to ensure you receive ample help and feedback. The communication and exchange among students also contribute to your artistic development. Everyone has something to share or may know that one technique that could be new to you. Even if you study at another art school or university, you’re welcome to refine your skills with us!
The Freihand Atelier does not see itself as a competitor to other art schools, academies, or art programs but rather as an additional and effective way to learn to paint and draw.
If you have further questions, check out our FAQ or send us a message.
See our Atelier Course
Founder of the Freihand Art School
Philip brings over 20 years of experience as a freelance artist, illustrator, and media designer. Initially, he educated himself, but he recognized the importance of a qualified instructor at an art school through his first art workshop and classes. He later furthered his education at the Watts Atelier, both online and in-person in California.
This led him to start teaching and sharing his experiences with other aspiring artists.
Philip’s Instagram
