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Children creating art at Smudge Artspace studio

Where creativity begins

Process-led art for kids. Classes, parties and holiday programs at our Surrey Hills studio, and art you can make at home anywhere in the world.

Young girl immersed in painting at Smudge Artspace

Our Philosophy

It's all about the making, not just the masterpiece

We believe the best art happens when you stop trying to get it 'right' and can create without pressure. Smudge is process-driven, hands-on, and gloriously messy! For kids and adults who'd rather play than perfect.

Play isn’t just for kids

Workshops for adults who want to make something.

Creative sessions for adults who want to experiment, make something fun and enjoy the process. From $85 a person, Friday afternoons and the odd Friday night in our Surrey Hills studio.

Cyanotype Afternoon

Fri 13 Nov

Cyanotype Afternoon

Ever watched a photo appear in water? Emma teaches cyanotype, the 1840s sun-printing process, with natural materials and treasures, and you'll take home a stack of deep blue prints.

1:30pm$85
Wet Felting Afternoon

Fri 27 Nov

Wet Felting Afternoon

Slow, squishy and oddly calming, wet felting turns loose merino into a soft wool picture with nothing but warm water, soap and your hands. No experience needed.

1:30pm$85
Embossed Tin Ornament Night

Fri 4 Dec

Embossed Tin Ornament Night

Our end-of-year night out for grown-ups: a glass of bubbles, plenty of nibbles and two hours learning to emboss soft tin into shiny ornaments to hang at home (or give away).

7pm$90
See all workshops

Book 2 or more spots, save 15%.

Celebrate at Smudge

Birthday Parties

Give your child a birthday they'll never forget. Our weekend party packages transform the studio into a private creative wonderland with themed art activities, all materials, setup, and cleanup included.

  • 11 party themes to choose from
  • Suitable for ages 2 to 12
  • Weekend exclusive: the studio is all yours
  • Setup, cleanup, and materials all included
Plan a Party
Girl painting onto a colourful wall at Smudge Artspace
Children creating art during a Smudge Artspace holiday program

School Holidays

Immersive Holiday Programs

When school's out, Smudge comes alive with themed creative programs that keep kids inspired all day long. Each holiday we design brand-new experiences packed with art, sensory play, and hands-on making.

  • Unique themed experiences every holiday
  • Ages 5 to 12: drop off and play

Summer holidays are on the way

Spring holidays have wrapped up for 2026. Pop your details in and we'll email you the moment new dates go up.

Keep me in the loop

What Parents Say

Loved by Families

★★★★★

“We absolutely love Art Play Lab! Every week is a new theme and there are so many different ways to create.”

Caitlin

Google Review

Art Play Lab
★★★★★

“Smudge has been such a gift for my young creator! He’s come alive since having a weekly outlet to tap his creativity.”

Allie

Google Review

★★★★★

“We love Smudge so much! The classes, parties and school holiday program are all thoughtfully and beautifully done. This place is amazing for children.”

Katerina

Google Review

★★★★★

“Coming to Smudge is the calmest hour of week. It is the most warm and inspiring place. Emma and the other instructors are simply wonderful. The Art Play Lab sessions have something for everyone. We love it!”

Leonora

Google Review

Art Play Lab
The Inside Days cover photo, a garden of painted cardboard flowers in the studio

Print at home

Smudge at Home

The same art we make in the studio, written down so you can make it at your own kitchen table, wherever in the world that table is.

  • Ten art experiences, whichever you choose
  • Mostly bits you already have: paper, cardboard, tape, paint and the recycling
  • No subscription, and nothing to cancel

A$9.95 A$14.95 each, or any three for A$24.95 A$34.95.

Prices are in Australian dollars. If you are overseas you will see your own local price at checkout.

Choose yours

Online Membership

The Smudge Hub

The Smudge Hub gives you everything you need to bring open-ended creativity into your home, classroom or studio; wherever you are in the world!

  • Guided themes and activities with step-by-step notes
  • The Artist's Toolkit: material lists and smart swaps
  • Guidance for educators and leaders
  • A members' gallery to share what you make
Try a full theme free

The Art of Everyday Making

Creative inspiration at your fingertips

Practical resources and creative prompts, with a new theme every month. The Smudge Hub is designed for parents, educators, and studio leaders who believe in the power of process art.

$12AUD / month

Cancel anytime. 170+ activities inside.

Give the Gift of Creativity

Not sure which class to pick? A Smudge gift card lets families choose their own creative adventure.

The perfect stocking stuffer – instant delivery

Shop Gift Cards

Our Melbourne Studio

Come and create with us

Our light-filled studio is in the heart of Surrey Hills, just off Union Road. There's plenty of street parking nearby and Union station is a short walk away.

102 Union Road, Surrey Hills
Victoria, Australia 3127

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Stay in the Loop

Get class updates, creative inspiration, and first access to new programs and holiday workshops. No spam, just the good stuff.