Barefoot Gallery Workshops — Art in an Inspiring Setting

Barefoot is one of Colombo’s most beloved cultural spaces, and their occasional children’s art workshops are a wonderful way to introduce kids to creativity in an authentic artistic environment.

Workshop Details

Ages: 6+ (some workshops suitable for 8+)
Format: Half-day workshops (3-4 hours), usually during school holidays
Types: Drawing, painting, batik, printmaking, collage
Cost: LKR 2,000-3,000 per workshop
Materials: All included
Frequency: Holiday workshops and special events (not weekly classes)

The Barefoot Experience

Unlike regular art classes, Barefoot workshops place children in a gallery surrounded by real art. The building itself — a restored colonial-era house with tropical gardens — is enough to inspire creativity. Children work with visiting artists or gallery staff in small groups.

Past workshops have included:

Batik fabric painting
Garden-inspired watercolour
Portrait drawing workshops
Sri Lankan motif design
Collaborative mural painting

Our Experience

We attended a holiday watercolour workshop with our 10-year-old. The setting was magical — painting in the Barefoot garden, surrounded by tropical plants and original artwork. The quality of instruction was excellent, and children produced work they were genuinely proud of.

It’s not a regular weekly commitment — it’s more of a special creative experience. Perfect for school holidays or as a treat.

Tips

Follow Barefoot on social media for workshop announcements
Book early — workshops are small and popular
Visit the café (our Barefoot Café review) after the workshop
The gallery shop has beautiful art supplies if your child gets inspired

Our Verdict

4.0 out of 5 — not for regular art education (try Kala Pola or Creative Kids for that), but as a creative experience and introduction to real art, Barefoot workshops are unmatched.

👉 See our full guide to Art Classes for Kids in Colombo and our Barefoot Café review.