Drawing & Painting Classes NYC

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Reviews for Drawing & Painting Classes in NYC

Drawing & Painting Classes in NYC are rated 4.6 stars based on 6,140 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

• Japanese Ink Painting (Sumi-e)

  Kana K. • May 13, 2025
  Very engaging and didactic lesson. Teacher gave great tips and taught me a lot about basic techniques in just an hour. Will definitely be applying her tips in the future.

• Japanese Ink Painting (Sumi-e)

  Kana K. • May 13, 2025
  The instructor was very informative and provided hands-on instruction. Would recommend for beginners.

• Saturday Figure Drawing

  Nicholas B. • May 13, 2025
  Class was great, relaxed environment with good people, model was excellent, highly recommend!

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Bruno D. • May 13, 2025
  I enjoyed the class, the instructor gave us personalized instruction, and I was happy to learn from a professional.

• Weeknight Figure Drawing

  Kimberly K. • May 7, 2025
  amazing model; large and friendly group of participants—serious artists and beginners alike; and a great facilitator! this was a wonderful opportunity to practice for me (a novice.) while not an instructed course, i was able to learn a lot just from convos with other participants during breaks. i look forward to participating again!

• The Meditative Still Life

  Caitlin • May 5, 2025
  I thoroughly enjoyed The Meditative Still Life! My drawing skills improved immensely throughout the course, and I noticed significant progress after each individual session. I was genuinely surprised by how much I had learned even after just the first and second weeks, and by the third week I felt much more confident in my abilities. Before this class, I hadn’t worked much with charcoal and often found it intimidating. However, the course structure—with individualized still lifes and personalized instruction—made it feel much more approachable and tangible. I now feel far more comfortable sketching on my own. The class has completely shifted the way I approach and observe subjects to sketch, which has positively impacted all of my other art practices as well. In particular, my oil painting has improved thanks to a stronger foundation in underdrawing. Raphaél provides thoughtful, individualized attention and constructive feedback that allows each student to grow at their own pace. This is by far the best sketching and drawing class I’ve ever taken, as it's the only time I’ve seen such a dramatic improvement in my work from the beginning of a course to the final piece. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to strengthen their sketching and drawing skills!

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Makeda • May 1, 2025
  Raphael's "Fundamentals of Drawing and Painting" workshop has been an absolutely fantastic and enriching experience, and I cannot recommend it highly enough to anyone looking to build a strong artistic foundation or rekindle their passion for art. From the very first session, I felt I was in a space where I could genuinely learn and grow. What I particularly enjoyed was the supportive and encouraging environment Raphael cultivates. He has a wonderful way of making complex concepts accessible and provides individual attention that makes you feel seen and guided, regardless of your initial skill level. I always felt comfortable asking questions and experimenting, which is so crucial for learning. The other students were also a joy to learn alongside; everyone was enthusiastic and respectful, creating a really positive and collaborative atmosphere where we could appreciate each other's progress. In terms of what I learned, the workshop was incredibly comprehensive. Before this, concepts like accurately measuring proportion felt daunting, but Raphael's methodical approach and clear demonstrations made it click. The exercises on mark mapping were a revelation, helping me to truly see the shapes and relationships within a subject. A significant portion of the workshop focused on learning and working with charcoal, which was new to me. Raphael expertly guided us through understanding the value scale, showing us how to achieve a full range of tones from the deepest blacks to the lightest grays. His instruction on different techniques for blending with charcoal was invaluable, allowing me to create smooth transitions and a real sense of three-dimensionality in my drawings. I now feel much more confident in my ability to observe and translate what I see onto paper, especially concerning light and shadow. If you are considering this workshop, you will absolutely learn core drawing principles in a practical, hands-on way. Raphael doesn't just tell you what to do; he shows you and explains the "why" behind each technique. For anyone wanting to grasp the essentials of drawing, from initial sketching to creating depth with charcoal, this workshop is an outstanding investment in your artistic journey. I’m leaving with a much stronger skillset and a renewed enthusiasm for creating art.

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Bruno Donaggio • April 21, 2025
  I am a beginner and was looking forward to learning from a professional. In class we received personalized attention and instruction from Raphael and that helped me gain further knowledge of drawing.

• Watercolor Painting (Beginner/Intermediate)

  Salita B. • April 18, 2025
  This watercolor class was a revelation—beautifully structured, thoughtfully paced, and led by an inspiring instructor, Allison, who made even the most complex techniques feel within reach. As someone who had never touched watercolor before, I left my first year not only confident but with a piece accepted into an art show—proof of just how transformative and empowering this class truly is.

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Lora • April 13, 2025
  I had no drawing experience prior to taking this course. Raphael is a great teacher and introduced me to concepts like measuring proportions, mark mapping, value scale. He broke things down in a way which was easy to understand, taught me to look at lines and lighting which was tremendously helpful. I was able to draw a still life using charcoal and pastel which even I am proud of. Usually my mind is distracted by many things, but when in Raphael’s class I am able to totally concentrate on drawing which he refers to as active meditation, so true! Raphael walks around and pays individual attention to each student, and has us look at each others work, which sounds daunting but actually is a fun experience. Since this class I’ve been sketching and looking at everything in a different light, becoming more observant and noticing much more details. I highly recommend this class!

• Japanese Ink Painting (Sumi-e)

  Anonymous • April 11, 2025
  Amazing experience

• Weeknight Figure Drawing

  Anonymous • April 8, 2025
  Loved the class!

• Instructed Drawing: Improve Your Drawing Skills

  Erica E. • April 8, 2025
  Great teacher nice atmosphere

• Long Pose Figure Drawing & Painting

  Lisa M P. • April 8, 2025
  I took my first class in long pose figure drawing with Roy. He is a phenomenal teacher and artist. I was feeling very out of my league having never drawn based on a live model but he quickly guided me and put me at ease. The vibe of the class was relaxed and the small group was perfect since we all got a lot of attention and there were regulars in the class who were very friendly. I highly recommend this class and Roy as a teacher!

• Saturday Figure Drawing

  Anonymous • April 8, 2025
  A delightful way to spend a Saturday! We were complete beginners and still felt welcomed and comfortable. It was very meditative. I can't wait to come back.

• Open Studio

  Judy G. • April 8, 2025
  This was a brilliant way to spend a Saturday! Melisse was terrific and the studio is cozy and had every type of material to dive into a day of creativity and calm. I will definitely be back

• Figure Drawing (Four Week Pose)

  Charlton R. • April 8, 2025
  Gabby was wonderful, and the space was very inspiring to work in over the month. Every student improved throughout the course.

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Alexej J. • April 8, 2025
  Raphael is amazing, never thought I could draw anything this beautiful. He really provided perfect guidance!!!

• Watercolor Techniques

  Doris E. • April 8, 2025
  Mark is very kind and gives direction well. His examples are clear and three hours of a perfect amount of time to work and not feel rushed. He also can be specific with his suggestions and answered questions patiently. I love kind of fast but will would take his class again if I don’t find another stimulating class nearby. I kind of wish it started earlier, though.

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Corinne T. • April 8, 2025
  The class was such a delight. We were treated to not only an introduction on the fundamentals of drawing but also the history and theory of art and why it matters. Raphael is a wonderful teacher. Would highly recommend !

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting (For Two)

  Anna Cho • April 6, 2025
  My husband and I took this course as a way to get reintroduced into drawing and could not have asked for a better teacher than Raphael to ignite our passion to explore the arts and also appreciate life around us through the lens of an artist. Raphael not only teaches techniques such as mark mapping, grayscale values and working with charcoal, but also helps with your mindset towards the arts. I am a perfectionist and the arts always intimidated me because I always compared myself to artists who worked years at their craft and found my own art lacking. Raphael helped me overcome that mental obstacle and encouraged us to embrace our mistakes and reiterated that as a beginner its normal to make mistakes and that there is no shame in making them. Mistakes help us grow and even start to understand how to improve and even great artists take years to feel satisfied with their works. We are both so appreciative of being able to work in his art studio and have a meditative space to draw and polish our observation skills as we work on still life. It has felt like a little pocket space outside of the hustle and bustle of the city outside. Our skills have improved drastically from the first session to the last and we are looking forward to booking more time with Raphael who has been an incredible teacher. We love that he encourages us to appreciate our peer's work and share the things we love about their work because seeing their growth and talent is inspiring and their encouraging comments definitely make you feel more accomplished about your own work. I highly recommend Raphael and his class whether you are a budding artist or an already accomplished one because he is an encouraging and funny teacher. Always walk out of his class with a smile because we had a great time even after a long day.

• Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

  Anonymous • April 1, 2025
  The instructor was truly so helpful and took time to really cater the experience to exactly what I needed in my level of drawing. It definitely is an intro class and an introduction to the studio so do keep that in mind as a good chunk of the first hour was walking through the studio and talking about what services were offered etc. The instructor did gladly let me stay past the time to help me individually with my drawing which I so appreciated and everyone there was so helpful. I would definitely recommend if someone is considering full time classes at the studio for an introduction class.

• Art Workshop (Thursdays)

  Isabel • March 29, 2025
  I took Raphael's classes because I had always wanted to explore painting, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Raphael is an exceptional teacher, offering a perfect blend of art history and practical drawing techniques. He meticulously arranges each space, paying attention to every detail and ensuring the lighting is just right for each student. This setup allows you to draw still life with an incredible focus on shadows and intricate details. You'll master both charcoal drawing and the art of creating stunning pastel paintings. Raphael even provides all the necessary materials, so you don’t need to worry about purchasing anything. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to enhance your skills, Rafael's classes will ignite a lasting passion for art.

• Japanese Ink Painting (Sumi-e)

  Carl E. • March 20, 2025
  I really enjoyed the experience. It was what I was looking for in a class and the description matched it. The instructor was very skilled and communicated well. I picked up a few new things and had fun!

• Long Pose Figure Drawing & Painting

  Rita S. • March 19, 2025
  I had a fantastic time doing this class. I had virtually no experience yet everyone was incredibly welcoming and kindly offered me guidance, helpful tips and direction throughout. I loved it so much I booked myself into a second session only a couple days later!

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Celia • March 18, 2025
  Raphael is such an incredible instructor. He assesses your current skill level (even if at 0 skill) and adjusts his guidance accordingly. Although in a group setting, it feels very personalized and tailored to each student. I feel invigorated to do more art in my free time and look forward to continuing learning under Raphael's guidance. Truly would give this 6 stars if that was an option. I was looking to learn how to blend colors and understand the fundamentals of a drawing/painting so that I can grow my skill set to feel confident enough to call myself an artist. In just 3 sessions, I do feel that confidence! Couldn't be more grateful for these sessions, they are FABULOUS!

• Paint and Sip Workshop: Midtown (BYOB)

  Kenny H. • March 17, 2025
  Overall, I like the course very much. It's affordable and located in the heart of Manhattan. The workshop itself feels very artsy, welcoming and comfortable. I also like that I can BYOB. The instructor is also very friendly and easy to interact with. All the supplies are provided to make for a very smooth experience. My only complaint is that the instructor is going a little too fast for me. Perhaps this course could benefit from a 30-minute extension? Overall, wonderful experience and I would definitely book again.

• Character Drawing: The Cartoon Psyche Unleashed

  Rachel S. • March 14, 2025
  I had an excellent experience with Gosha. I had zero drawing experience, and he helped make it feel accessible and fun. He also did a great job catering his instruction toward my individual goals.

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Franz Lino S. • March 14, 2025
  This was a fantastic fundamentals of drawing & painting class. The class can be very personal, where you're taught at your skill/experience level so it doesn't ever feel like you're "behind" others. Also, just learning the mark-mapping technique alone made a huge improvement in my drawing which was great. Excited to continue going!

• Paint and Sip Workshop: Chelsea (BYOB)

  Shauna P. • March 12, 2025
  Really fantastic! Patricia was a jovial, funny and patient instructor. I was with a group of seven and we all had a phenomenal time!

• Quick Small Scale Portrait Sculpture

  Elliot L. • March 12, 2025
  A very real experience. James Xavier's commitment and enthusiasm is contagious.

• Watercolor for Relaxation

  Tina P. • March 12, 2025
  The class was so fun! It's great for all levels; I know nothing about water color painting, but I still had a really nice time learning different techniques and playing around. Everyone was so encouraging. It's a very non-stressful atmosphere. Melisse, the instructor, is so inviting and helpful. I will definitely go back for more classes!

• Paint and Sip Workshop: Midtown (BYOB)

  Myla D. • March 12, 2025
  It was so much fun to paint with friends, such a great way to hang out and get to do a fun activity while enjoying the company of friends. The teacher was very instructive and helpful.

• Valentine's Day Couples Painting

  Abigail K. • March 12, 2025
  We loved the instructor, Luke. He was both kind and hilarious. We had so much fun!

• Valentine's Day Couples Painting

  Aravind E. • March 12, 2025
  Perfect class and highly recommended. Made us feel like established artists. Tons of fun and a great way to take our minds off of the busy world around us.

• Quick Small Scale Portrait Sculpture

  Aiyana P. • March 12, 2025
  This was a fantastic class. James was incredible. He started the class off by giving us a tour of his studio where some of his other students were working which allowed us to be immersed in mind and body in the craft of portraits in different modes. He was available and present with the lesson which felt intimate and extraterrestrial at the same time. His words were incredibly uplifting and his instruction showed how firmness meets flexibility in the craft of one's self. I would highly recommend this class for anyone who feels that there is something burgeoning inside them that needs a guide to come through. James is both an instructor of the art of sculpting clay as well as one's own vision for themselves. 10/10 would recommend and will very likely work with James again.

• Drawing for Beginners

  Rasheed W. • March 12, 2025
  Bernado is amazing. I learned so many new things and had a blast drawing and learning from him. Would definitely recommend and take again.

• Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

  Laura K. • March 6, 2025
  James was an awesome instructor and is clearly very passionate about what he does. A very comfortable environment with helpful feedback!

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Cai • March 3, 2025
  This class was amazing! I took the three-class session, and I honestly can't believe the painting I was able to create after only three days of instruction. The instructor is so great — kind, honest, and very knowledgable. I entered this class knowing nothing about charcoal and pastel, and I left with a painting that I actually feel so proud of! Thank you!

• Paint and Sip Workshop: Midtown (BYOB)

  Jesse R. • March 2, 2025
  I had a great time - and the instructor was a good teacher, well rehearsed on how to help us unskilled masses. I would do it again for sure! I am grateful how comfortable the instructor made us feel.

• Art Workshop (Thursdays)

  Kathryn Sobota • February 26, 2025
  Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops is a great place for all levels of artists and people learning. Raphael great gives mini lessons on techniques and art history (and philosophy) at the beginning of each class. He does a great job of helping individual students and personalizes instruction to help each student improve on their specific drawings. He is supportive and encouraging. Students can learn how to use charcoal and pastels to create drawings of whatever they want. This class is a great place to cultivate creativity and explore drawing and art techniques.

• Art Workshop (Thursdays)

  Jasmine • February 24, 2025
  If you had shown me the painting I created before starting this class, I never would have believed it was mine and that I could create something so advanced. Raphael is an incredibly encouraging teacher who helped me discover artistic skills I didn’t even know I had. His techniques are especially beginner-friendly, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. I’ve always loved drawing for fun, but I never had the motivation or supplies to take it further. This class gave me the perfect opportunity to explore a new hobby and dedicate time to my creativity each week.

• Drawing Improvement Through Bargue Copying

  Alice G. • February 18, 2025
  Wonderful course. The instructor was amazing and so helpful; I am surprised that I managed to see improvement in just one course. This studio is a delightful place to learn.

• Valentine's Day Couples Painting

  Monica P. • February 15, 2025
  It was great- lots of fun and very engaging!

• Paint and Sip Workshop: Midtown (BYOB)

  Claudette J. • February 12, 2025
  The art class was great. I met new people. My picture came out really good and I was surprised that I could paint as I have never painted before. I was proud of my accomplishments. It was a wonderful experience. I would refer my friends.

• Fear-Free Beginners Drawing

  Nadine T. • February 12, 2025
  As someone who was anxious about taking a drawing class, I’m happy to say that quickly disappeared thanks to the inviting, supportive, and nonjudgmental atmosphere from day one! Thanks to Clem and then Tol (my apologies if I spelled her name wrong), and even Tyler who was both teacher and model for a day who all continued the wonderful atmosphere that was conducive to my style of learning. I even liked the jazz music in the background while we practiced! I’ve definitely improved my drawing skills and will continue practicing on my own. For any future classes, I’ll definitely consider The Art Studio NY! Thank you very much!

• Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

  Lori • February 11, 2025
  This class is a fun way to start drawing, or to return to it if you feel out of practice. Raphael, the instructor, is a talented artist and talented teacher. He gives each student personalized instruction, understanding your strengths or interests. And he patiently and kindly answers your questions and shows you ‘how-to’. I learned to become comfortable with using charcoal for drawing and pastels for painting. He teaches techniques such as composition, mark mapping, measuring proportion, erasing, and blending. The welcoming art studio environment is the opposite of a stuffy classroom. There is no pressure, and everyone’s effort is taken seriously. Raphael is a really smart, interesting person – throughout the class we talk about art, history, philosophy, music. I have learned much more than just drawing technique. He’s a great storyteller, and his sense of humor keeps us laughing. Within just a few sessions my skills totally improved! I am inspired to keep drawing. This is the best art class I’ve ever taken!

• Art Workshop (Thursdays)

  Ese • January 19, 2025
  Raphael's art class is great for anyone who wants to start learning to draw or improve skills you already have. Over my time taking his course I was able to create work with charcoal and pastel that proudly hangs in my home. He is patient with beginner learners like myself and I’ve learned alot beyond drawing but also learned art history through his presentations. I highly recommend taking classes with Raphael!

• Instructed Drawing: Improve Your Drawing Skills

  Margaret S. • January 17, 2025
  It was informative, relaxed and fun

• Watercolor Painting (Beginner/Intermediate)

  Anonymous • January 15, 2025
  This class was absolutely awesome!