Inspiring art classes, holiday camps and creative experiences for children and young people aged 4–16 in our beautiful Buckinghamshire studio upstairs at THE GALLERIA on the Green in Chalfont St Giles.. Our Mission is to cultivate JOY through creativity. Making art with curiosity and playful experimentation using clay paint and drawing materials to create a work of art to be proud of!
Hear from our Artists
We’re not your average art class — and that’s exactly why our students love us.
Why Choose Mini Monets ?
Independant Art Studio
Mini Monets is an independent art studio where young people are encouraged to think, experiment and create for themselves. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, we introduce children to exciting artists, materials and techniques, giving them the skills and confidence to develop their own ideas. Our studio is a place for getting messy, taking creative risks, asking questions and discovering that there is rarely just one ‘right’ way to make art. With small groups and experienced practising artists as teachers, every child is seen as an individual and encouraged to find their own creative voice.
Local Legacy & Community Roots
For more than a decade, Mini Monets has been part of the creative fabric of Buckinghamshire. We’ve watched children arrive for their very first art class, grow in confidence and ability, and, in some cases, return years later as young artists and mentors themselves. Our roots here run deep. We know our local families, schools and community, and we’re proud to have created a place where generations of young people can make art, form friendships and feel that they belong.
Experienced Artistic Educators
Mini Monets was founded by artist and experienced art educator Debra Franses, following her return from New York City, where she had spent the first few years of her son’s life. While living in New York, Debra discovered the Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA) in SoHo. Inspired by its approach, she wanted to create a place where children could explore art with the same freedom, curiosity and creative confidence. In 2012, Mini Monets opened its doors in Debra’s canalside studio in Harefield. Over the years, something rather special has happened: many of Debra’s young artist helpers have themselves grown up through Mini Monets and gone on to study at leading London art schools, including Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Arts, where Debra herself studied from 2002–2005. Today, Mini Monets is a vibrant creative community where young people are encouraged to experiment, build confidence and, most importantly, discover their own artistic voice.
Other things you might want to know
Do I need experience to join?
No! We offer classes for all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced artists
What should I wear to class?
Can I try a class before signing up?
How often should I attend classes?
Where are you based?