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Painting Classes NYC

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Unleash your inner artist with a wide range of painting classes in NYC. Whether you are a beginner or experienced artist, discover new techniques, explore different mediums, and create beautiful works of art that will inspire and delight.

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Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting (For Two)

Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops See all classes by this school @ 321 W 24th St , New York, NY

Unleash your creativity with the timeless techniques of charcoal and pastel as you explore the elements of visual language. From mastering proportion to analyzing composition, this workshop offers hands-on instruction and insight into the history and philosophy of art. Experience a blend of personal guidance, artistic practice, and enriching discussions in a welcoming, intimate studio environment.

(272) All levels 18 and older
$390
for 2 students

3 sessions

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+3900 pts
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Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting

Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops See all classes by this school @ 321 W 24th St , New York, NY

Unleash your creativity with the timeless techniques of charcoal and pastel as you explore the elements of visual language. From mastering proportion to analyzing composition, this workshop offers hands-on instruction and insight into the history and philosophy of art. Experience a blend of personal guidance, artistic practice, and enriching discussions in a welcoming, intimate studio environment.

(272) All levels 18 and older
$210

3 sessions

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+2100 pts
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Paint and Sip Workshop: Midtown (BYOB)

Special School Offer!
5% Off Painting Lounge Gift Cards! Learn More >

Painting Lounge See all classes by this school @ 40 W 38th St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity in a relaxed and social atmosphere, as an experienced artist guides you step-by-step through creating a beautiful work of art. BYOB and enjoy a fun and stress-free painting experience with friends and coworkers or on a unique date night. No experience is necessary, just bring your enthusiasm!

(538) Beginner 21 and older
$35
Attend
+350 pts
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Paint and Sip Workshop: Chelsea (BYOB)

Special School Offer!
5% Off Painting Lounge Gift Cards! Learn More >

Painting Lounge See all classes by this school @ 39 W 14th St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity in a relaxed and social setting, as an experienced artist guides you step-by-step through replicating a beautiful work of art. Bring your favorite beverages and enjoy a fun and stress-free painting experience with friends or colleagues. Perfect for events, parties, or team-building workshops.

(538) All levels 21 and older
$35
Attend
+350 pts
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Paint and Sip

Paint & Sip Studio New York See all classes by this school @ 246 W 80th St, New York, NY

Escape the stress of everyday life and indulge in a romantic art adventure along a picturesque riverside. Immerse yourself in vibrant colors as you paint and sip your favorite beverage in a relaxed studio environment guided by experienced local artists. Unleash your creativity and create a masterpiece to be proud of.

(112) All levels 21 and older
$50
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+500 pts
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Drawing and Painting Techniques: Charcoal

Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops See all classes by this school @ 321 W 24th St , New York, NY

Discover the ancient beauty of charcoal drawing and painting at Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops. This beginner-friendly class will teach you the elements of the Visual Language and how to analyze and appreciate paintings in museums.

(272) All levels 18 and older
$210

3 sessions

Attend
+2100 pts
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Learning Art through Creating Art

Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops See all classes by this school @ 321 W 24th St , New York, NY

Unleash your creativity and explore the world of art through hands-on creation. Develop your artistic skills and techniques in a supportive environment with expert guidance.

(272) Beginner 16 and older
$210

3 sessions

Attend
+2100 pts
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Drawing and Painting Techniques: Charcoal (For Two)

Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops See all classes by this school @ 321 W 24th St , New York, NY

Discover the ancient beauty of charcoal drawing and painting at Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshops. This beginner-friendly class will teach you the elements of the Visual Language and how to analyze and appreciate paintings in museums. Join with a friend to save $30!

(272) All levels 18 and older
$390
for 2 students

3 sessions

Attend
+3900 pts
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Painting Workshop: Harlem

Special School Offer!
5% Off Painting Lounge Gift Cards! Learn More >

Painting Lounge See all classes by this school @ 15 W 116th St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity in a relaxed and social environment on the upcoming workshops. Join an experienced artist as they guide you step-by-step through replicating a beautiful painting. BYOB and enjoy a fun-filled evening of music, conversation, and creativity!

(538) All levels 17 and older
$30
Attend
+300 pts
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Painting Workshop: Williamsburg

Special School Offer!
5% Off Painting Lounge Gift Cards! Learn More >

Painting Lounge See all classes by this school @ 309 Roebling St, Brooklyn, NY

Unleash your creativity and enjoy a stress-free painting experience at a relaxed and social workshop in Williamsburg. No previous experience is needed - our experienced artist will guide you step-by-step through creating a beautiful work of art. Bring your friends and coworkers, or enjoy a unique date night and have fun in a fun and creative atmosphere.

(538) All levels 17 and older
$35
Attend
+350 pts
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Watercolor Painting for Total Beginners

The Art Studio NY See all classes by this school @ 243 W 72nd St , New York, NY

Ignite your creativity in a beginner-friendly watercolor painting class, where you'll explore the beauty of flora, fauna, and flowers. Guided by a professional NYC artist, you'll learn essential techniques like wet-on-wet, glazing, and color mixing, all while expressing your unique artistic voice. Relax, de-stress, and create meaningful, expressive paintings to be proud of in a supportive, fear-free environment.

(657) Beginner 18 and older
$169

4 sessions

Attend
+1690 pts
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Wheel Throwing and Hand-Building + Painting - Financial District

Pottery Studio 1 See all classes by this school @ 40 Water St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity with a hands-on pottery experience, where you'll shape, sculpt, and paint your own unique clay piece. Guided by skilled instructors, you'll explore both wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques in a fun and relaxed setting. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class invites you to embrace the process and create something truly one-of-a-kind.

(1) All levels 18 and older
$130
Attend
+1300 pts
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Beginner Oil Painting for Adults (Drop-In)

Creatively Wild Art Studio Dumbo See all classes by this school @ 98 Water St, Brooklyn, NY

Discover the joy of oil painting as you unleash your creativity on canvas. Join us at the renowned Creatively Wild Art Studio Dumbo for an intensive course that will equip you with the essential techniques and skills needed to create stunning oil paintings. Whether you're a total beginner or an intermediate artist, this class offers a supportive environment for all levels.

(193) Beginner 18 and older
$80
Attend
+800 pts
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Weeknight Figure Drawing

Drawing New York See all classes by this school @ 15 Gramercy Park South, New York, NY

Join us for an immersive figure drawing experience designed to help you create more completed drawings. With short warm-up poses followed by longer poses, you'll have ample time to refine your techniques. All levels are welcome.

(758) All levels 16 and older
$30
Attend
+300 pts
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Japanese Ink Painting (Sumi-e)

RESOBOX See all classes by this school @ 91 East 3rd St, New York, NY

Discover the tranquility and simplicity of Sumi-e, the ancient East Asian art of ink wash-painting. Explore the essence of objects through the fewest possible strokes and let your personality shine through in your work. Join us for a contemplative experience that will transport you to a world of beauty and self-expression.

(534) All levels 18 and older
$40
Attend
+400 pts
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Wheel Throwing and Hand-Building + Painting - Upper West Side

Pottery Studio 1 See all classes by this school @ 216 W 104th St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity with a hands-on pottery experience, where you'll shape, sculpt, and paint your own unique clay piece. Guided by skilled instructors, you'll explore both wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques in a fun and relaxed setting. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class invites you to embrace the process and create something truly one-of-a-kind.

(1) All levels 18 and older
$130
Attend
+1300 pts
Gift it!

Wheel Throwing and Hand-Building + Painting - Turtle Bay (Midtown East)

Pottery Studio 1 See all classes by this school @ 140 E 52nd St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity with a hands-on pottery experience, where you'll shape, sculpt, and paint your own unique clay piece. Guided by skilled instructors, you'll explore both wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques in a fun and relaxed setting. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this class invites you to embrace the process and create something truly one-of-a-kind.

(1) All levels 18 and older
$130
Attend
+1300 pts
Gift it!

Private Graffiti Art Workshop for 6-9 People

Graff Tours See all classes by this school @ 282 Meserole St, Brooklyn, NY

Learn spray painting techniques and create your own graffiti art project. Immerse yourself in graffiti culture, and bring a new piece of art home!

(3) All levels 1 and older
$265
Attend
+2650 pts
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Long Pose Figure Drawing & Painting

Chelsea Classical Studio See all classes by this school @ 526 W 26th St, New York, NY

Learn the art of composition, proportions, and color in this figure drawing and painting class. Working from a live model, students will develop their skills in a direct alla-prima approach, focusing on draftsmanship, values, and color mixing. All levels are welcome to join this hands-on and immersive experience.

(279) All levels 16 and older
$40
Attend
+400 pts
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Paint in the Dark™: UV Body Painting for Couples

DenArt See all classes by this school @ 99 Kingsland Ave 102 Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY

Experience a unique and intimate date night where couples unleash their creativity through UV body painting in a dark studio. Let your imagination run wild as you and your partner explore this playful and romantic activity under the guidance of a professional artist. No artistic skills are required - just bring your enthusiasm and a sense of adventure!

(9) Beginner 18 and older
$299
for 2 students
Attend
+2990 pts
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Reviews for Painting Classes in NYC

Painting Classes in NYC are rated 4.6 stars based on 4,064 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • I took the Fundamentals of Drawing & Painting and I loved it! I reconnected with my passion for art and I was guided very well to complete a piece of art I was proud of and could hang up! Would 100% recommend!
  • This was so fun! I brought my friend and we love to do arts projects. We brought our own beer and had a great time. There was not a lot of time to sip our beer during the class but that’s because we were very focused on the artwork. If you are a little unfamiliar with painting I would say the pace of the instruction may be a little fast. But I am already excited to come back.
  • James was a caring, dedicated, and passionate teacher. I have taken many drawing classes over the years and this was one of the best, and I've learned new skills as well! I highly recommend this class to anyone he wants to be taught by a wonderful teacher, and enhance their skills.
  • Great class and space! Had pencils/easels, instructor was really good as well :)
  • Excellent guidance, great staff, good materials, all around amazing experience!
  • I absolutely loved this class! I’d for years wanted to take a class to help me improve on my sketching and learn some basic techniques. I love to draw, sketch, watercolor and now I feel like I have some real skills to create. Raphael is a superb teacher, very personalized instruction and so talented and lovely. I’ll be taking more classes with him in the fall. Wonderful experience
  • Great class and even better teacher. I progressed so much in just 3 classes. I would recommend to anyone who wants to start drawing.
  • I really enjoyed this 3 part series class. This is the first art class that i took as an adult and Rafael made the process very accessible and inspiring. I love that he provides all supplies so you don't need to buy anything in advance. Also new students come in every week and there are students there who have been working for longer which allowed me to see not just my progression but those of other students as well. I really learned how to see in this class and got much better at drawing than when I first began. Would recommend!
  • The instructor, Patricia is very helpful and gracious.
  • At first, I was intimidated to take a drawing course since I had no drawing experience, but I’m so glad I did. Raphael is a warm and inviting teacher, and there is absolutely no judgment in the class. He helps bring out each student’s unique style during one-on-ones and provides great critiques. You can tell Raphael truly loves art! Through this course, I learned shading techniques, depth perception, and proportions —all of which are foundational to drawing. I’m excited to apply these skills in future work, and I am retaking another class.
  • This class has been such a refreshing creative outlet. I had no formal training and barely drew before, but after just 3 sessions I am pleasantly surprised at what I created. Rafael creates a calm, supportive space and teaches practical techniques like mark mapping, scaling with reference points, and breaking down shapes—which made drawing feel approachable and fun. I also loved how he brought in artist references and bits of art history for inspiration. Highly recommend for anyone looking to reconnect with their creativity, no matter their starting point.
  • This class was very fun and informative! As someone who was interested in exploring their creativity, this was a really engrossing and community-based class to enjoy. The techniques about mark mapping, blending and erasing with charcoal and value were great. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to get creative - super good for beginners!
  • I had a lot of fun and learned a lot in this class! The different techniques, from Mark Mapping to blending/erasing with charcoal, to the value scale, were really helpful and clear. I feel like I progressed a lot in just a three week period with Raphael’s instruction. It was a really warm, community environment which made it enjoyable. Would recommend to anyone who wants to tap into their creative side. As pretty much a total beginner, it was great for me!
  • Really enjoyed this class. The instruction was more helpful than I thought it would be.
  • Leysan was a joy to work with -- offering knowledgeable insights and fun ideas that led to my creating a beautiful collage. I love too that so many different materials are on-hand to use. I've taken this class before and will continue to take it again and again in the future!
  • Working with Raphael is a real joy. He's an artist through-and-through and conducts his class in a way that is conducive to hands-on learning. He always has something thought-provoking to say and creates a warm, encouraging, and friendly environment for students to learn various techniques and media in the visual arts. I was very surprised at what I was able to create after only 3 weeks of charcoal drawing classes, especially considering I had no prior drawing experience!!
  • 10/10 and this class is quickly becoming one of my favorite parts of the week! It has a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to focus and have fun at the same time. Everyone is friendly and supportive which makes the whole experience feel welcoming. Raphael is a great instructor giving personalized feedback and guidance no matter your skill level. I learned how to map out shapes using mark-making techniques and build form through light and shadow. One of the highlights for me was the quick sketching exercises, where I spent 10 minutes each drawing different objects with charcoal. At first it was intimidating, but it really helped me get more confident and comfortable with the process. I’m currently working with colored pastels and excited to see where that leads. If I could only take one art class, this would be the one.
  • 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.
  • The instructor was very informative and provided hands-on instruction. Would recommend for beginners.
  • Class was great, relaxed environment with good people, model was excellent, highly recommend!
  • I enjoyed the class, the instructor gave us personalized instruction, and I was happy to learn from a professional.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • Amazing experience
  • 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
  • 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!
  • Raphael is amazing, never thought I could draw anything this beautiful. He really provided perfect guidance!!!
  • 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.
  • 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 !
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • 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!
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • Really fantastic! Patricia was a jovial, funny and patient instructor. I was with a group of seven and we all had a phenomenal time!
  • A very real experience. James Xavier's commitment and enthusiasm is contagious.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • We loved the instructor, Luke. He was both kind and hilarious. We had so much fun!
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • It was great- lots of fun and very engaging!

Discover the Best Painting Classes in NYC

Do you live in New York City? Are you thinking about learning to paint? Painting is a method of artistic expression in which paint, pigment, color, or another medium is applied to a solid surface. This unique form of self-expression dates back to prehistory, when nomadic people created paintings on rocky walls using charcoal. The oldest paintings in the world were recently found in Spain, and experts believe them to be over 42,000 years old. Most often a brush is used to apply paint, but other tools such as knives, spatulas, sponges, and airbrushes can be used alone or in combination with brushes. “Painting” is an interesting word, since it is used to describe the action that creates the end product (both are referred to as “painting”). Any person can learn to paint, regardless of their background.

Why You Should Learn Painting in NYC

Learning painting in New York City can be a great hobby that will help you relieve stress, or simply give you something to do when you have free time. You might find that you enjoy the part of painting that allows you to create something for another person as well. Your next painting could wind up being a special gift that a loved one can hang in their home. It is the perfect way to show you care about them on their next birthday, or just in general. The best part is, your painting could be of anything that you believe is special to the person in question.

There is a large community of painting lovers in New York City that is accessible both in-person and online. These can be people who use painting as a hobby, or even people who paint professionally. Once you have a basic understanding of how to paint, you may want to research local clubs, groups, events, or organizations where you can meet other people who like painting. Groups like this can offer you the opportunity to create a new social circle.

If you are looking for your new side hustle, painting could be it. Being able to paint is a marketable skill that you can turn into a part-time job, or even a new job entirely. You have the option of selling your paintings through an online marketplace, or in-person at a craft fair near where you live. You could even begin taking commissions, where you create custom paintings based on the requests of your customers.

In-Person Painting Classes & Schools in NYC

If you live in New York City and you want to learn painting in-person, CourseHorse can connect you with classes in your area. For example, you can attend Painting Workshop: Harlem in the neighborhood of the same name at Painting Lounge. In this class, you will learn painting by replicating the featured painting of the evening with guidance from an experienced artist. This class is perfect for beginners, and you can even bring beer, wine, and food to enjoy while you paint. 

BYOB Painting: Santorini (UWS) takes place at The Paint Place on the Upper West Side, and it is a class for beginners. You will learn to create a one-of-a-kind painting masterpiece that you can take home the same night. 

Also at The Paint Place on the Upper West Side is BYOB Painting: Banksy Girl with Balloon (UWS). This beginner-level painting class will show you how to replicate this famous work by street artist Banksy, and you will be able to take your creation home with you at the end of the evening.

Another The Paint Place on the Upper West Side offering is Paint Your Pet (UWS). For this class, you send in a photograph of your pet that you would like to paint, and that photo is sketched onto your canvas as a guide for you to follow. Create your own masterpiece and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Open BYOB Sip and Paint takes place at Painting Hangout in Midtown. Bring some drinks and your friends and enjoy making memories and masterpieces together. All art materials are provided, and you can release your stress with this simple and fun course.

Painting from Life: Alla Prima at Chelsea Classical Studio in Chelsea is a class where students work from a live model and learn the alla-prima approach to painting. You will also learn good draftsmanship, values, and color, which are all fundamentals for continuing your painting journey.

Grayscale Painting for Beginners is offered at Creatively Wild Art Studio Dumbo in Brooklyn and will teach you to create dynamic compositions using a sequence of tones from light to dark. You will create a monochrome image in this unique and challenging class for all levels.

Another Chelsea Classical Studio offering is Long Pose Figure Drawing & Painting. This class focuses on composition, proportions, gesture, values, color, and oil painting technique. You will work from a live model and learn a direct alla-prima approach that aims for good draftsmanship.

Painting in the Park is offered by ArtClassBrklyn.com at Prospect Park South. This weather-permitting in-person class includes a free half-hour set-up time and all of the necessary materials. You will paint a portrait of Prospect Park in a low-pressure setting.

Creatively Wild Art Studio Dumbo in Brooklyn offers Oil Painting I: Beginner Steps for Adults. This intensive oil painting class will equip beginners with the essential skills needed to express their own ideas on canvas. You will create an original finished work using oil paints.

Virtual Painting Classes & Schools

If you want to learn painting online, there are many virtual classes from which to choose. When you take an online painting class, you can gain the same knowledge of painting as you would at an in-person class, and if you take a live online class, you will still get the real-time feedback from your instructor who you would at an in-person class. This type of feedback is critical to learning painting in an easy and relaxing way. Just remember that if you choose to take an online painting class, you will most likely need to purchase your own materials, but your instructor should give you a list of what to buy.

Interested in online painting classes? CourseHorse has several options that you can pick from based on what type of painting you would like to master. For example, Beginner’s Intro to Watercolor Painting: Single Session is a class that explores the colorful world of watercolor painting. You will experience learning and fun in this relaxed group atmosphere while you discover your unique form of self-expression.

Painting the Natural World is another watercolors class that is perfect for all skill levels. In this class, you will learn to make expressive marks, mix colors, and apply water mindfully. It is recommended that you have at least basic knowledge of painting and watercolors to take this class.

Online Painting With Acrylics 301 is a virtual class for all levels in which you will learn the techniques of 20th-century painting masters. These include mixing colors and preparing your canvas for your work.

Online Oil Pastel 101 is a virtual class that teaches you about the creamy, easy-to-mix medium that is oil pastels. You will learn the basics of color theory and create unique projects using smooth blends and subtle applications of color.

Private Group Painting Classes in NYC

Do you have a business or organization in New York City? Would you like to schedule a painting class as a fun team-building event? CourseHorse has painting classes for private groups in New York City that they can deliver to you. To give you an idea of what to expect from one of these courses, Virtual Watercolor Workshop (Materials Included) will take up to 225 participants and all materials are included in the cost of the class. Your group will learn techniques to create an abstract painting in a relaxing and creative atmosphere. Virtual Acrylic Painting (Materials Included) is designed for up to 500 participants per course and all materials are included. This class instructs your group on how to create a painting on canvas. While you will all be working on the same painting, the end products will be unique to each artist. And Virtual Watercolor Georgia O’Keeffe (Materials Included) takes up to 225 people at one time and includes all the materials you need to learn. This class will teach your group about legendary watercolor artist Georgia O’Keeffe, and in the process of painting, you will learn her techniques.

If you do not see a group class that interests you listed publicly on their website, CourseHorse can provide a different class for your group. Reach out through the contact form on their website to learn about all available options. When you book with CourseHorse, it is important to remember that you get a multitude of benefits, including the ability to change your group size after booking if necessary. You will also receive a confirmation within 24 hours of your booking, and there are no extra booking fees. Finally, CourseHorse private group classes are supported on multiple platforms, so everyone can join in on the fun no matter where they are.

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