Artmaking as adventure

ART CLASSES →
kids and young adults ages
6-18

Many art classes are built around assignments. While these can teach techniques, they often miss the magic of the creative process — the joy of curiosity, exploration, and making something truly your own. My approach is different.

In my classes, kids and young adults are introduced to a variety of materials and methods, but the choice of what to create is theirs. This builds autonomy, decision-making skills, and confidence in listening to their own imagination. Inspired by the philosophy of Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB), I see each child as the artist: unique, capable, and ready to explore. The process is playful and adventurous, sometimes messy, always surprising, and ultimately deeply rewarding.

I also bring a perspective that goes beyond traditional art teaching. As an active artist in The Hague, I know what it takes to study at an art academy and to build a relevant artistic practice. For parents of children with a special passion or talent for art, this means I can offer guidance that connects today’s creative play with the skills and mindset that may support a future in the arts — whether that’s applying to the Royal Academy or simply understanding what it means to live as a practicing artist.

In short: these classes are more than drawing or painting lessons. They are a space where children and young adults learn to trust themselves, discover their voice, and experience the adventure of art in a supportive environment.

Meet your teacher

Erik Kamaletdinov is a practicing artist and graduate of the Royal Academy of Art (KABK) in The Hague, active in the city’s contemporary art scene. Over the past six years he has taught art to children of all ages — from toddlers to teens — as well as adults and even people with dementia.

His background in psychology and international upbringing (Kazakhstan, Greece, China, and the Netherlands) shape the way he teaches: curious, open, and with a focus on creativity as a way to express and discover yourself.

You can check out his work here

Parent of a 7-year-old
"My daughter always comes home with paint on her hands and the biggest smile on her face. She loves that she can decide what to make instead of following strict assignments."

Parent of a teenager
"It’s rare to find a space where my 15-year-old feels free to experiment without pressure. These classes give him confidence and spark new ideas every week."

Mila, 9 years old
"It feels like going on an adventure every time. You never know what you will make, and that’s the fun part."

Neighbourhood participant
"The classroom feels alive when the kids are in it — colourful, noisy, and full of imagination. It’s a gift to the neighbourhood.”

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