I would start by finding a class that is cheap. If you don’t want to find a class, get a book at the library. I would start with acrylics. They are easier to control and clean up it much easier—soap and water. If you dont’ want to buy expensive canvas start on poster board or museum board. Cheap brushes are fine, but be ready to pick brush hair out of the paint. I would invest in a couple medium brushes if you think are going to continue. Start with sketches on the board. A still life is prly the easier to start with you can leave it and it will be the same when you come back. I had to start with just one object, to many would just overwhelm me. I couldn’t get the all to sit right, so I would start with an applel or something and when I felt comfortable with it I would add new. Don’t ever be afraid to put the brush to the canvas. You gotta start somewhere. If you mess up you can start over. Or better yet, finish it and then start over and compare. See what you learned from that painting. Try different ways of holding the brush. All my art teachers have always said never hold a brush or pecnil to paint/draw like you hold a pen to write. Its not the same thing and the results will not be a good. I hope some of this helps.