‘You will notice that the positioning of your easel doesn’t allow you to see anyone else’s work. If, after this afternoon’s session, you don’t want to share what you’ve done with the group, then that’s fine. Simply unclip your painting and take it back to your room.

‘Some of you might be picking up a brush for the first time, only to discover that paint isn’t your medium. But what I’d like you to do is to trust me. Don’t think about what you’re doing, just do it. Today we are working with acrylic paint and heavyweight paper. It’s water-soluble. You will obtain the best finish if you apply a thin coat of primer first. Drying time is about ten minutes for it to be touch-dry.’

Nico walks over to the nearest easel and grabs one of the pots, holding it up.

‘It helps stop the paper warping with the moisture content in the paint and also makes the surface a little smoother. However, if you want that slightly gritty texture, then skip the primer. If you need to start over again, there is a pile of fresh paper over on the table in the corner, but try not to give up on a painting too soon. And, most of all, have fun, guys!’

Suddenly I can’t wait to get started, and even though I’m happier with a pencil in my hand and a little sketch pad, that bowl of fruit is so fresh and colourful I’m going to give it a go.

I look around at the other visitors and when Nico turns back to the wall to begin taking down the canvases, one of the guys catches my eye. He grimaces, picking up his brush and holding it awkwardly aloft, and I almost burst out laughing. Well, here goes!

The day unfolds in many different ways – interesting, challenging and rewarding. Unexpected. So many different emotions and new experiences are coming at me from every angle. In the rush of new things, my problems have been parked to one side and I’m now fully invested in what’s going on around me. And that’s the biggest surprise of all.

This evening I introduced Kellie to Taylor and left them to their own devices as they headed off into the courtyard to find a quiet room, guitars in hand. Patricia is still on the edge of everything, not really approaching anyone unless they talk to her first, so I spent most of the evening with her. It turns out she’s a chess player and while I need to think quite hard about what the various pieces do, we managed to have a few light-hearted games.