Painting classes for 2026

What do children learn in painting classes?

Painting class for kids helps them grow in self-expression. You’ll find classes individually dedicated to watercolour, acrylic, portfolio, and miniature painting. In all classes, children learn foundational painting skills along with skills specific to each painting medium. Kids of any age gain visual art skills through practice, as they learn about composition, perspective, and more. They gain an understanding of the creative process and grow in art appreciation. 

In some painting classes, drawing activities are part of students’ creative process. Children may be required to sketch their ideas before adding colour and dimension by painting. To prolong the quality of their tools, instructors teach children how to clean brushes and preserve their paints and other materials. Children have fun painting landscapes and portraits in classical, abstract, or contemporary ways. 

Helpful, enthusiastic instructors create safe and supportive environments in class to encourage children’s self-expression. Some classes specialise in either beginner instruction or advanced instruction, while other programs combine both. Classes are billed per week and average around $35. Painting classes for teens with more advanced curriculum⁠—portfolio building courses for serious artists—are $1,000 and up, preparing students for postsecondary art and design courses

Choosing the right painting class

In all painting classes, children can expect to learn basic painting and visual art skills, socialize with other children, and⁠—of course⁠—have fun! There are many different class options to select. The list above mixes online and in-person classes. In-person classes are immersive and hands-on, while online classes offer live or recorded step-by-step instruction for beginner to advanced students. Enrolling in in-person classes does not guarantee that students are provided with supplies and it is recommended that families inquire about supplies before classes begin.

Why enroll in painting classes?

Painting classes can inspire children to become the next Picasso or Frida Kahlo, but the focus is on fun. That said, there are still many important benefits kids and teens gain from painting class:

• Preparation for art university or college is the main focus of portfolio programs, where high school students paint various pieces and prepare for art school interviews. 
• Work with the best art supplies. In class, children use professional-grade paints, brushes, palettes, and canvasses to create art pieces. Working with high level products ensures children focus on the quality of their work.
• Mental health benefits. Painting is a form of art therapy in which teens and kids work hands-on. It steadies the heart rate and clears the mind. This art form requires children’s full attention, and often distracts them from other problems or worries in their lives.
• Transferable art skills. When kids deepen their understanding of composition and design, it unlocks more visual art opportunities. Drawing, photography, game development, fashion design all benefit from this fundamental understanding.
• Boosted social life. In both virtual or in-person classes, kids are surrounded by other budding artists. Classes offer a freeform, fun setting where they converse and exchange ideas. Painting class is a great way to make friends and grow social skills.

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