Bob Ross-style 'sociable' painting classes take Northwich by storm

Friends Lucy Ashley and Becky Ralph – aka Imaginators –  have been 'on a roll' since starting their Bob Ross-style step-by-step painting workshops in December 2023.

The pair, who met in 2021 on the new mums' circuit, have hit on a winning formula involving booking out local bars and restaurants on quieter evenings for their classes.

“People keep coming back month after month because they really enjoy being able to relax, have a drink, and socialise,” said Becky.

“But they also like doing something where they’re totally immersed and not on their phones or thinking about other stuff.”

While each participant’s painting is done entirely from scratch, the tutor demonstrates each process step by step at the front.

Everyone can achieve something they can be proud of (Image: Lucy Ashley)

The result is a painting which is entirely original, but at the same time, of a quality which the painters can be proud of and even display at home.

More confident painters are free to let their creativity run wild, if they want to.

Lucy and Becky’s love of painting used to see them travel far and wide to find classes and workshops which suited them.

This spurred them on to set up the events in Northwich, and they now run around seven every month at places including Devenham’s in Davenham, the Antrobus Arm, and Hartford Hall.

Students can follow the tutor - here, Lucy - step by step (Image: Lucy Ashley)

They also holds coffee morning sessions at Weaver Vale Garden Centre in Winnington for those who prefer to stay home in the evening.

The 32-year-old added: “It’s so easy for people to forget to make time for themselves. In essence, we’re about creating that opportunity.   

“We chose a different picture for each month, and we stand at the front and do a full step-by-step demonstration of how to create it. 

“Everyone does it completely from scratch. We don’t pre-draw anything on our canvases.

Lucy (left) with her daughter, Isla Ashley, and Becky with her daughter Edith Ralph (Image: Lucy Ashley)

“It means they go home with something they can be really proud of."

Lucy and Becky are offering something a little different in September – a neon painting party at That South African Place in Barons Quay – and they’ve recently branched out into the private party and corporate hospitality markets.

To book a place at one of their workshops, visit their booking website, or check out their Facebook page for more information.

Becky added: “A lot of people have said to us they can’t paint because they weren’t very good at art in school, and have never tried since. We don’t believe that. Everyone is creative.

“What's more - painting is great for the mind. It gives you time to be yourself."