What is an art café?
An art café is a café where the main activity is making art. You book a seat for a couple of hours, choose what to create (or bring a project of your own), and work at your own pace with a drink in hand. There is no class to keep up with, and no experience is needed.
Imperfect Art runs art cafés in Angel (Islington) and Peckham, London: two-hour sessions from £18 per person, with art materials and unlimited tea and coffee included.
How does an art café work?
- Book a time. Pick a slot at our Angel or Peckham studio. Sessions last two hours.
- Arrive and settle in. Your host welcomes you, and tea, coffee and biscuits are there to help yourself to.
- Your materials are included. Watercolour, charcoal, and soft and oil pastels are ready and waiting. Add an upgrade (canvas, clay and more) if you like, or bring your own.
- Make what you like. There is no set project and nobody is marking it. If you would like a hand, ask your host.
- Take it home. Leave with what you made and a clearer head.
How is an art café different from an art class or a paint and sip?
A class follows a lesson at the teacher's pace. A paint and sip is often one step-by-step painting that everyone copies. In an art café you decide what to make and how long to spend on it.
If you would like guidance, our workshops are guided sessions on one medium or theme. If you are curious how the two compare, read our page on the paint and sip alternative.
Who is an art café for?
Anyone who would like a couple of hours to make something with their hands. People come on their own for some quiet time, with friends, on dates, and with colleagues. You do not need to be able to draw, and there is no such thing as getting it wrong.
Planning something for a bigger group, such as a hen do, birthday or team day? See our private events.
How much does an art café session cost?
| What | Angel & Peckham |
|---|---|
| Off-peak (weekdays 2 to 5pm) | £18 |
| Peak (weekday evenings and weekends) | £24 |
| Upgrades (optional) | From £8 |
Your session covers your seat for two hours, plus watercolour, charcoal, soft and oil pastels, and unlimited tea, coffee and biscuits, all included. Students and NHS staff get 10% off with valid ID.
What should I bring?
Nothing. You do not need to bring anything, but you are welcome to bring your own project or materials. Wear something you do not mind getting a little messy.
Where can I try an art café in London?
Angel, Islington
Studio 2B, 5 Torrens Street, London EC1V 1NQ. A 2 minute walk from Angel station (Northern line).
Peckham
Unit D2.1, Yellow Stairs, Bussey Building, Copeland Park, 133 Copeland Road, London SE15 3SN. A 5 minute walk from Peckham Rye station.
Both studios are open Thursday and Friday 2pm to 9pm, and Saturday and Sunday 11am to 6pm.
Imperfect Art was set up as London's first art café, and the two studios are both a short walk from the station.
Frequently asked questions
What is an art café?
An art café is a café where the main activity is making art. You book a seat for a couple of hours, choose what to create or bring your own project, and work at your own pace with tea or coffee to hand. No class, no set project and no experience needed.
Do I need to be good at art to go to an art café?
No. Nobody is marking your work and there is no set project. The point is the time spent making something, not how it turns out.
How long is an art café session?
Sessions at Imperfect Art last two hours.
Are tea and coffee included?
Yes. Unlimited tea, coffee and biscuits are included with every session, and you can help yourself throughout.
How much does an art café session cost?
A session is £18 off-peak or £24 at peak times, at both studios, including watercolour, charcoal, soft and oil pastels. Paid upgrades are available from £8, or you can bring your own materials. Students and NHS staff get 10% off with valid ID.
Can I go to an art café on my own?
Yes. Coming on your own is very welcome, and a session booked just for yourself is a good way to have some quiet time.
Can I bring my own materials?
Yes. You are welcome to bring your own materials or project, and the session price stays the same.
More from Imperfect Art
Try an art café for yourself
Two hours, art materials, tea and coffee included, from £18. No experience needed.
Book a session