Mentoring with Richard Kitson

It’s a question that has been asked many times but safe to say many people make art because it is very rewarding, especially when the artwork you are making goes well. Art is also very challenging and sometimes the compulsion can lead to frustration and a feeling of being lost. For many artists, their practice is a solo pursuit with hours spent practicing in the hope of making solid progress without the support of peers who can relate to the realities of a creative practice.

If you are an artist who is feeling frustrated, stuck or lacking direction then it may be time to consider mentoring as the next step in your artistic journey. Below are a few considerations to help you to decide if mentoring is for you.

Workshops vs Mentoring, what’s the difference?

As a workshop tutor, I enjoy teaching lots of different people from all walks of life, all at different stages of their creative journeys. For the most part workshops last a single day and, in that time, I try to cover as much content as possible in relation to the subject being covered. Whilst many artists enjoy the workshop experience, there is only so much that can be covered in a single day and it is up to the participants to follow up on the workshop on their own or book onto another workshop when they have time. Mentoring is a much slower method of learning and tailored to the individual rather than a group. People who enter into a mentoring relationship do so because they want to dig deeper, be challenged and gain a better sense of who they are as an artist. Mentoring is for artists wishing to make a bigger commitment to their creative practice and take it to the next level.

How does mentoring work?

It all begins with an initial meeting (either online or in person) in which we discuss your work and reasons for wanting to undertake mentoring. Essentially it is a discussion about where you are as an artist, your aims and objectives. It is the best way for me to gain a sense of who you are, what you want to do and begin planning your mentoring programme.

After the initial meeting I will send a summary of what we discussed and draw up an action plan for your first month of mentoring. Then it is up to you to do the work! As your mentor I am here to guide and support you, not to do the work for you. Mentoring is all about independent learning, and if you put the hours in you will gain the full benefit.

After the first month we will arrange a tutorial where you will present the work you have made, which will form the basis for discussion. This work will also inform the following months action plan to ensure you are always moving forwards, and that the advice I give and work I set is relevant and meaningful to you.

Can I contact you before our monthly tutorial? What other support will I receive?

Yes of course you can. Independent learning can be difficult so you need to maintain your motivation. If you are feeling lost at all you can email me or arrange a phone call. I will also ask you to send me images of the work you have been doing approximately every ten days. This will enable me to send you formative feedback via email as the month progresses.

How long does mentoring last?

I recommend a six-month mentoring programme in order to get the most out of the learning experience. However, everyone is different so we can discuss your requirements.

How much does mentoring cost?

£300 per month. If undertaking a six-month programme this is payable in two 3-month instalments. 

Do I always have to work independently or can I receive some private tuition?

For the most part my mentees work independently, much as they would if undertaking a post graduate course. I will always give you enough work to sustain a month’s worth of work. However, some people may wish to receive some painting or drawing tuition if it is relevant to their practice. If this is the case, we can arrange a private lesson at £40 per hour (materials included). Alternatively you can arrange to come and work in my studio for a day where you will work independently but with me on hand to observe and offer my insights at no additional cost to the mentoring fee.

Do you set writing tasks?

Yes. Whilst mentoring is predominantly practice-led, there will be elements of research too. Most often this research addresses your key concerns and interests but also the way in which artists engage with their audience through personal statements and online, be it through social media or a website. The job of an artist today encompasses many skills so mentoring is an opportunity to develop into a more rounded and confident practitioner. I will also ask you to write regular personal reflections as a way of assessing your own progress and practice.  

Can I continue once I have completed my programme?

Yes. At the end of every mentoring programme we will have a final tutorial in which we will discuss your overall outcomes. In most cases it will make sense to continue independently to fully embed your mentoring into your everyday practice. However, if you feel like you require further support, you are always welcome to extend your mentoring relationship.

If you wish to enquire about mentoring, please fill out the contact form via the button below with as much detail as possible. Alternatively you can email info@richardkitson.co.uk with your enquiry.

What Artists Say About Mentoring with Richard Kitson

I started working with Richard as my mentor, when I was getting back into my art practice after 40 years off. Richard has provided structure and support for my development, setting challenges and providing constructive feedback. This has led to my skills developing but more importantly it is helping me create a clearer focus on who I am as an artist and what I really want to be saying and working on. Richard has an ability to understand where I am and what I need, before I do. It is this intuition, knowledge and experience that makes Richard a fabulous mentor. Claire Paterson - Six month mentoring programme.