Foundations of Drawing — beginner / intermediate / advanced lessons focusing on fundamental techniques to become confident and skilled at drawing. **Please note postcodes covered: EN and N, London

Find out more about Annie

• When did you start practising? How did this passion find you?

  I started drawing aged 8, but had my first chalkboard aged 4 and remember it being significantly taller than me. I had a stool and chalks and use to draw on it a lot.

• Which artists or works affect you the most?

  Because my style is realistic, I'm drawn to abstract art a lot, I suppose in a way to counterbalance my practice and exposure to a variety of art styles. I also love installation and video art.

• What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in this area?

  I think anyone can gain the skills needed to succeed with art, as long as they have the willingness to persevere and practice. You need patience and to be accepting of making mistakes as well as a willingness to learn from them.

• What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  Put the phone, tablet, or whatever device it is down, and focus on drawing for 10-20 minutes a day. Longer is better if you can. If you find yourself spending more than 30 minutes on social media on any given day, then you might wish to consider taking a break from social media. You will find that you're able to focus more on a real-life, tangible skill like drawing.

• How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel?

  Drawing for me is meditative. It makes me feel focused and calm. It's rare to have a difficult commission or piece, as long as you take time away from it and come back to it, any difficulty will resolve itself.

• What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  I'm proud of myself for having always turned to drawing when I need it and have built up a portfolio of work in different areas as a result, drawing commissions, illustration, film storyboarding and life drawing, for example. I'm also very happy that I'm at a stage where I can share my learning with students.

• Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their ability or quick progression?

  Yes. There are often times where students lack confidence and I can see that they are naturally talented or eager to progress, but maybe they are too hard on themselves. In these instances, it's important to introduce fun drawing exercises for balance.

• Being a Superprof is an art! What is your secret?

  Quick response times and clear communication, and the ability to be flexible wherever possible.