Registrations for the Wānaka Autumn Art School are off to a strong start, with around half of all places taken on the first day.

Painting classes are always the fastest to fill, art school art school co-director Susan Manson said, and this year one sold out in just 26 minutes - highlighting the popularity of the once-a-year event.

The annual art school, which takes place in April, gives participants the chance to step away from everyday life and immerse themselves in a week of creative learning, guided by experienced tutors.

“It's a great chance for locals to benefit from excellent tutors from around the country and spend a week being creative but classes are filling - so it would be wise for them to decide soon,” Susan said.

She highlighted a modern calligraphy class as a new one worth considering, and said there are still some spots in writing with Joe Bennett, which is always “a fun class”.

Jewellery with Vaune Mason is also always popular, Susan said, and “this year she is focusing on beads which is something different for us.”

As always, the art school features a mix of new and returning tutors.

Two former art school students - Jahn Morris Hill and Andrea Sexton - are returning as tutors this year, with classes on contemporary textiles and mixed media respectively.

Other tutors are returning after time away, including artist Noreen Melvin, who has not taught at the school since before Covid-19, and long-time photography tutor Mike Langford, whose class is also filling quickly.

The Wānaka Autumn Art School will take place from April 13-17.

Visit the art school website for the latest class information and to book a spot.

PHOTO: Wānaka App