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Art Classes Chicago

Discover a vibrant array of art classes in Chicago that will ignite your creativity and expand your artistic skills. From painting and drawing to photography and pottery, unlock your artistic potential and gain confidence in your abilities with hands-on instruction from experienced artists.

123 classes have spots left

Mixed Media Art

Discovery Center @ 4318 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL

Unleash your creativity and explore a world of endless artistic possibilities as you learn to create captivating compositions using a diverse range of materials and techniques. Let your imagination soar in this dynamic art course that focuses on conceptual practice and personal process.

(277) All levels 16 and older
$110

4 sessions

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Comics & Cartooning (Ages 9-14)

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity and tell stories through art! Dive into character design and storytelling techniques to craft your own comic panels using various drawing tools. Explore traditional and digital drawing methods while gaining inspiration from professional examples.

(83) All levels 9 - 14 years old
$340

9 sessions

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Painting the Portrait in Oils (Ages 16+)

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unlock the secrets of capturing the essence of a person through the medium of oils in this engaging course. Discover techniques to create lifelike portraits that convey emotion and personality.

(83) All levels 16 and older
$490

10 sessions

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Explore Art Private Group Events

Explore private group events and team building activities ranging from cooking to art, escape rooms, trivia, and more

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Painting Studio

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity and explore the world of color and expression in a dynamic and supportive environment. Dive into an immersive artistic experience where you can hone your painting skills and develop your unique style under the guidance of experienced instructors. Join a vibrant community of artists and discover the joy of bringing your imagination to life on canvas.

(83) Intermediate 18 and older
$435

10 sessions

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Color Exploration: Studio Painting

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Elevate your painting skills in a dynamic studio setting where you can experiment, learn, and express yourself through the language of hues. Join us in exploring the endless possibilities of color.

(83) Intermediate 18 and older
$435

10 sessions

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Advanced/Intermediate Wheel Throwing

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Refine your pottery skills with Evanston Art Center's Advanced/Intermediate Wheel Throwing class. Elevate your craftsmanship as you focus on creating functional pottery forms, honing both throwing and glazing techniques under expert guidance. Perfect for experienced throwers seeking to enhance their artistry and expand their repertoire of forms.

(83) Intermediate 16 and older
$480

10 sessions

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Beginning/Intermediate Wheel Throwing

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Embark on a journey of creativity with our Beginning Wheel Throwing class, tailored for newcomers and experienced potters alike. Expand your pottery repertoire as you delve into advanced techniques and refine your skills on the wheel. Join us to elevate your craft and bring your ceramic visions to life with expert guidance and support.

(83) Beginner 18 and older
$480

10 sessions

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Painting the Still Life in Oil (Ages 16+)

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Experience the beauty of oil painting as you master the art of capturing still life compositions. Explore step-by-step techniques, honing your skills in drawing accuracy and delving into color theory and composition. Join us to unlock the secrets of creating depth and dimension on canvas under expert guidance.

(83) All levels 16 and older
$435

10 sessions

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Introduction to Perspective Drawing

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unlock the secrets of drawing realistic space in this comprehensive course at Evanston Art Center. Discover the principles of linear perspective and develop the skills to create accurate visualizations of three-dimensional spaces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this course offers valuable techniques and exercises to enhance your drawing abilities.

(83) All levels 18 and older
$160

5 sessions

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Experimenting with Pastels

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity with a versatile medium known for its vibrant colors and soft textures. Dive into the world of pastels and discover the joy of experimenting with different techniques to bring your artwork to life.

(83) All levels 18 and older
$355

8 sessions

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Divergent Inks: Mixed-Media & Experimental Printmaking Techniques

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Embark on a journey of boundless creativity through experimental printmaking and mixed-media techniques. Discover the freedom to blend mediums and explore diverse approaches to artistic expression. Whether you're drawn to structured experimentation or free-flowing exploration, this class provides a supportive space to cultivate your unique artistic voice.

(83) All levels 18 and older
$320

10 sessions

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Abstract Painting Studio

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity in our Abstract Painting Studio, where you'll delve into the world of abstraction and personal expression. Work in series to evolve your style while learning methods to enrich your paintings with newfound skills. Gain confidence and coherence in your artwork, developing an exciting body of work guided by professional expertise.

(83) Intermediate 18 and older
$435

10 sessions

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Ensemble of the Portrait

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Refine your portrait painting skills with personalized coaching focusing on drawing and painting techniques. Explore rendering models in color or honing your drawing abilities in this dynamic class. Unleash your creativity with poses lasting 2 to 3 weeks and bring your preferred drawing and painting materials to the first session.

(83) Intermediate 18 and older
$445

9 sessions

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Methods of Successful Drawing

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Discover the secrets of successful drawing as you learn various techniques and materials at the prestigious Evanston Art Center. Unleash your creativity and develop essential skills in composition, value patterns, and still-life drawing using charcoal, graphite, and micro pens.

(83) All levels 18 and older
$300

10 sessions

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Drawing & Painting the Portrait

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Refine your portrait drawing and painting skills with personalized guidance and the freedom to work in color or focus solely on drawing techniques. Unleash your creativity in capturing the essence of the model through poses spanning 2-3 weeks. View the instructor's recommended supply list for a head start on this artistic journey.

(83) Intermediate 18 and older
$445

9 sessions

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Introduction to Observational Drawing

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Dive into the essentials of observational drawing with our comprehensive course. From basic geometric forms to intricate subjects, master a range of techniques using graphite, conte crayon, and ink. Receive expert guidance through weekly demonstrations and critiques, ensuring each student enhances their ability to create realistic yet artistic drawings.

(83) Beginner 18 and older
$295

10 sessions

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Painting I: Acrylics & Oils

Aartwerk Studio @ 1141 W Granville Ave, Chicago, IL

Unleash your creativity and explore the vibrant world of acrylics and oils at Aartwerk Studio. Dive into a hands-on experience where you'll learn essential techniques, unleash your artistic potential, and create stunning masterpieces under the guidance of experienced instructors. Join us and bring your imagination to life through the power of colors and brushes.

(12) Beginner 16 and older
$280

7 sessions

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Watercolor Open Studio

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity and master the art of watercolor in a serene and supportive environment. Join artists of all levels at the Evanston Art Center for a weekly session where you can freely express your ideas, receive expert guidance, and explore a variety of watercolor techniques.

(83) All levels 16 and older
$230

5 sessions

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Intro to Painting I & II

Discovery Center @ 4318 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL

Unleash your creativity and master the art of painting with this immersive course at Discovery Center. Explore various painting techniques, experiment with water-based paints, and create captivating abstract and representational artworks. Join us to unlock your artistic potential and express yourself through the power of colors.

(277) Beginner 16 and older
$110

4 sessions

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Pen & Ink & Watercolor (Ages 16+)

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity with Pen & Ink and Watercolor techniques! Join us for a hands-on artistic journey where you'll learn to create stunning drawings and paintings using a variety of pens and watercolor mediums. Get ready to explore new techniques and unlock your artistic potential.

(83) All levels 16 and older
$240

5 sessions

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Reviews for Art Classes in Chicago

Art Classes in Chicago are rated 4.4 stars based on 372 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • Introduction to Perspective Drawing

    Reviewed by Matt G. on 12/2/2023
    Duffy is an engaging instructor and the class is thorough and relaxed. Learned what I was hoping to and had a chance to practice it.
  • Pen & Ink & Watercolor (Ages 16+)

    Reviewed by Barbara M. on 10/21/2023
    Pen, Ink and Watercolor has proven a wonderful art experience encompassing teaching of technique, skill and medium as well as sharing up to date information on the current art world. Michelle Kogan is a notable teacher and artist, supportive of student growth and experimentation. I have signed on again for another session.
  • Painting I: Acrylics & Oils

    Anonymous review on 2/20/2023
    I really enjoyed this class. The instructor was very helpful and I learned some really good techniques. I'm planning to take more classes from Aartwerk in the future.
  • Intro to Painting I & II

    Anonymous review on 9/14/2022
    The teacher was excellent. She made the class fun. Nobody felt intimidated. She was very knowledgeable and terrific with instruction.
  • Painting I: Acrylics & Oils

    Reviewed by Carly B. on 5/12/2022
    This is a fantastic beginners course. I feel like I have a better understanding of fundamental concepts around materials and basic techniques
  • Comics & Cartooning (Ages 9-14)

    Reviewed by Mario T. on 9/13/2021
    I truly enjoyed 6 wks learning more & increase my ability. I am hoping to taping into more in drawing . I to thank my grandma for giving me the opportunity & the price was right to. Thank you Mario Townsend Jr
  • Intro to Painting I & II

    Reviewed by Karen R. on 3/6/2020
    I enjoyed the class very much and felt the instructor showed an interest in each participant. She also covered a wide range of media in the session. And, she is very entertaining.
  • Painting I: Acrylics & Oils

    Reviewed by Catherine B. on 3/20/2018
    This class exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended.

Discover the Best Art Classes in Chicago

Chicago has a rich history of art. One of Chicago’s first major art showings was held at the World’s Columbian Exposition, which featured Mary Casset and other well-known and important painters and sculptures. The Art Institute of Chicago (founded in 1866) houses hundreds of artists, architects, writers, and activists. 

Modern-day Chicago is still a rich ground for artists of all kinds. There are amazing art museums, galleries, and shows that feature local and famous artists and celebrate creativity. Because of Chicago’s rich art history, it’s a great place to take art classes. You’ll find dozens of art schools offering painting, drawing, and sculpting courses. To find the best art classes in Chicago, visit CourseHorse to find current classes in your area. 

Why You Should Learn Art in Chicago

There are many reasons why you should learn art in Chicago. First of all, art is a fun and rewarding hobby. You can learn art in your free time and have a new productive hobby. In addition, taking art classes in Chicago connects you to the area’s art history. You’ll be able to learn more about the artists that founded the Art Institute of Chicago and learn how to replicate their art styles. 

In addition, learning art in Chicago will introduce you to others interested in the same styles. You’ll be able to join communities, clubs, groups, and events that feature local small artists. This will help you to connect to larger communities, network with other artists, and fill your free time with meaningful and fun activities. 

If you’re interested in starting an art career, taking an art class is a great place to start. You can learn the basics of art and learn new techniques to begin creating your own style to help you stand out from other artists in the area. 

You can also take art classes to learn more about the art history in your area. Art teachers will often touch on the important artists from Chicago to help you better understand the foundation of art. 

In-Person Art Classes & Schools in Chicago

In-person art classes are the best way to learn art. You’ll get personalized feedback and instruction, live demonstrations, and chances to network with other artists in your area. You can take a one-time art class or sign up for a class that meets multiple times. 

A great art class to take is Macbeth's Art (Ages 16+) from Evanston Art Center. This class meets six times for three hours and is located in Evanston, Illinois, making it a great course for those who live just outside the Chicago area. 

This art class combines Shakespeare and art by creating paintings in response to Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” It’s a unique course that allows students to shine in their creativity. The class has an average size of ten people and is open to artists and readers of all levels. 

Another great class to take is Mixed Media Art from Discovery Center. The class meets four times for two hours each and is open to students ages 16 and older. During the class, students will create dynamic, multi-layered compositions with a variety of materials, including watercolors, acrylic ink, images, found objects, and pastels. In addition, students will learn photo transferring, collage, printing, drawing, painting, and assemblage. 

All of the materials that you’ll need are included in the class. However, you’ll need to bring a $35 materials fee on the first day of class to use the plentiful materials available. This class also has an average size of ten people, which makes it perfect for those looking for smaller and more personalized art classes. 

The Evanston Art Center also offers an Introduction to Figure Drawing course that meets for 12 sessions. This boot camp-style class welcomes intermediate students who have experience in drawing but have never attempted to capture the human body. The class uses nude models to help students better understand human anatomy. 

Most of the class will use charcoal as a medium, but throughout the 12 weeks of classes, you’ll also learn to use ink wash and other techniques. You will also learn techniques of representation, such as composition, contract, and line quality. Although figure drawing is challenging, you’ll walk away from this class with a solid understanding of the most important concepts. 

Evanston Art Center also offers a unique art class called The Artists’ Studio. This class meets for six sessions that offer studio time for you to work on projects of your personal preference with the availability of individualized instruction and techniques. You will be encouraged to explore new concepts of line, composition, color, and scale. 

The class also includes group critiques and references to classic and contemporary art to inspire you. You can bring your choice of medium to the first class and learn from the others who attend. Each class lasts three hours, giving you plenty of time to learn in the art studio. 

Since art is popular in Chicago, there are dozens of other schools that offer art classes. Visit CourseHorse’s website to see a list of the current in-person art classes in Chicago

Virtual Art Classes & Schools

Virtual art classes are a great option for those who can’t or don’t have time to commute to in-person art classes. Online art classes offer many of the same benefits and aim to teach you the basics of art from an entirely remote setting, meaning that you can learn from the comfort of your own home. To give you a good idea of what to expect from online art classes, here are some of the most popular virtual classes available. 

A unique class that you can take is Beginners Art Journaling from The Art Studio NY. This class meets for four sessions and lasts one hour and 15 minutes. It’s open to anyone ages 18 and older and teaches you to unlock your creative expression. The class focuses on “art journaling,” where you will express your inner world through a variety of materials, colors, layers, and subject matter. 

Rather than focusing on a single piece, you’ll learn to create a journal that expresses your world of thought through mini art pieces that work together to create an overarching theme. It allows you to express your thoughts and creativity while combining mediums in a unique manner. The class calls itself a “Fear-Free Beginners Art Journaling Class” because you’re allowed to express yourself entirely and authentically. 

If you’re new to art and want to learn the basics, consider taking Drawing for Beginners from 92nd Street Y. The class includes five sessions and is open to beginners. During the course, you’ll learn elements of art, including line, shape, shadow, value, tone, form, and perspective. The class also includes demonstrations and critiques to help you improve and learn from others in the class. 

The Chicago Botanic Garden offers a class called Painting with Gouache: Online that meets six times for two and a half hours. During the class, you’ll learn how to use gouache, which is an opaque watercolor that has a flat, graphic quality that gives it a modern look. The class talks about artists who are well-known for using the medium, including Henri Matisse.

Private Group Art Classes in Chicago

Are you looking for a fun team-building activity in Chicago that can help alleviate the stress that your employees are facing? Holding a fun, enjoyable group activity that is centered on art can ensure that your employees get the time that they need to relax. CourseHorse offers several great art classes for private groups in Chicago that are perfect for businesses. 

For example, consider taking Virtual Acrylic Painting (Materials Included). The class lasts for 90 minutes and is open for groups of up to 500 remote individuals. All of the materials will be shipped out to your group members before the class begins to ensure that everyone will be able to participate fully. 

You can also select the image that you want the group to paint so that everyone can follow the instructor's lead as you use acrylic paint on a canvas. It’s the perfect class to help your group relax and rewind. 

For more art classes, check out CourseHorse’s website. You’ll find dozens of art classes perfect for large groups to give back to your employees. You can also find classes to help your group learn new skills and learn great hobbies.

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