Art classes for Teenagers

Traditional & Digital Art Programs

Designed to Inspire Teenage Artists.

At ART+Academy, our teen art programs are designed to help young artists grow skills, confidence, and creative independence. We offer two distinct learning pathsTraditional Art Classes or Digital Art Classes — allowing students to choose the medium that best fits their interests and goals.

Across our Austin and Cedar Park locations, teens work on personalized projects at their own pace in a supportive, small-group setting. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, students receive individual guidance from professional instructors who help them strengthen technique while encouraging creative exploration.

Beginner-Friendly Approach

Teens new to art typically begin in our traditional art classes, where strong drawing skills form the foundation for all future learning. Using principles from Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Dr. Betty Edwards, students learn how to truly “see” what they draw.

They explore:

  • Contour and cross-contour lines

  • Perspective and negative space

  • Basic shading and value

As confidence grows, students deepen their skills through value studies, observation exercises, and shading with charcoal or pastels. Projects may include composition studies, still life, and master-inspired work, while also incorporating color theory and the use of watercolors and acrylic paints to support creative growth.
(See what can be learned.)

Digital Art Classes & Advanced Skill Development

For teens interested in digital illustration, ART+Academy offers dedicated digital art classes. Students work using digital tools (such as iPad and Procreate) while learning essential art concepts like composition, color, value, and design — all applied specifically to digital media.

For experienced students (traditional or digital), instructors begin with an assessment of skill level and goals, then guide students through projects that challenge their abilities and expand their portfolios. This focused approach helps teens develop confidence, refine technique, and grow creatively within their chosen medium.

Our Commitment to Quality

With small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios, every teen receives meaningful, personalized instruction. Our caring instructors provide timely feedback and encouragement, helping students see real progress over time.

✨ You can view that growth in our Before & After Gallery.
If a class is currently full, families are welcome to join the waitlist, and we’ll notify you as soon as a space becomes available.

Before
After

What you get?

START ANYTIME.
Yes, you can enroll at any time, as long as there’s space available in the class. Additionally, we prorate your first month tuition  based on your start date.

PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS
Also, all our teachers have a college degree in an art-related field.

SMALL CLASS SIZE
Specifically, we limit each class to a maximum of 8 students.

GALLERY DAY EVENT
Above all, every April, we celebrate our students’ progress with an art show we call “Gallery Day”. This event is open to all our enrolled students and their families & friends!

What if I miss a class?

We understand that sometimes things come up—unexpected events, travel, or illness—and you may need to miss a class. Not a problem! As long as you are enrolled, you can make up a missed classes by attending another class listed in our schedule at any of our locations.

However, keep in mind that there is absolutely no prorating or refund for missed classes. In addition, missed  classes cannot be used as class credit for the next session, other classes, or camps.

google

Adult classes at the Art + Academy are designed to inspire all levels of artistic talent, from beginners to advanced. Thanks to the excellent instructors, the interaction between aspiring artists is also a driving force for the creative spirit. I have been a student at the Studio for over four years and can recommend the Art + Academy without hesitation.

google

Great teachers and superb extracurricular academy. My kids love it!

google

My 12 year old loved the summer camp. To the point that she’s asked to take classes at Art+Academy this new school year.

google

I looked at several schools before settling on Art Plus Academy. The before and after pictures on the website gave me the push I needed to sign up for a class. I took an adult art class with Monica. I saw vast improvements in my sketches in a short time. Monica is an excellent teacher. Her passion for art and teaching comes across in every class. She genuinely cares about her students. When I was having a difficult time with one of the techniques, she sent me materials to look at so that I could improve my skill. She has built a wonderful community of students and teachers. Everyone I have come across has been encouraging, inclusive and friendly. I would highly recommend Art Plus Academy.

google

It is an excellent academy where my daughter really excelled in art. She learnt a lot…we miss you

google

Our experience with Art Academy over the past two years has been absolutely fantastic! The teachers are not only great at what they do but also incredibly personable. My daughters have thoroughly enjoyed their time, and I appreciate the positive and nurturing environment that Art Academy provides. Highly recommend!

google

My 6 year old daughter started taking classes from Ms Macia this January, and the progress she made within just five months has been so impressive! She was able learn different ways of expressions and also started to develop an appreciation of art. The teacher is very professional. My daughter absolutely loves going to the art class each week!

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My son has been taking lessons here for over two years. It is absolutely his favorite class. He loves his instructor, Erin. She is very knowledgeable, encouraging, and patient. The gallery days are such a fun way for the kids to show off their work. Highly recommend this place!

google

My son was hesistant to do any sort of art. He thought he didn’t like it. But he was willing to try a class at Art +, mostly because a friend was in the class. And he fell in love with drawing! I have seen such improvement in his skill and effort in just a short time. He now spends some of his free time drawing and it is wonderful! He is proud of his work and sees his own improvement, and he can describe drawing techiniques to me. His friend, who has been at Art + for 2-3 years, has developed incredible skill. Watching this friend’s talent develop over the years has been astounding. This is a high quality art class. They keep it fun, there is a lot of freedom, and the skills are taught and practiced brilliantly. We just signed up for another year!

google

I’ve been learning drawing and painting at this studio for over a year and a half, and it’s been amazing, thanks to our talented teacher, Rose. Her patience and dedication have really helped improve my skills. She’s encouraged me to go big on canvases, be bold with my strokes, and dive deep into my artistic expressions. I’m so grateful for her support in both my art and personal growth. The vibe here is great too—my classmates are super supportive and always lift you up when needed, and we all get inspired by each other’s work. I definitely recommend this place. You’ll love it here!

google

Our daughter began attending Art + Academy last year as a kindergartner, and it quickly became her favorite extracurricular activity. We’ve explored various programs, but Art + Academy stood out for its ability to introduce her to new and creative drawing and painting techniques that she wouldn’t have tried on her own. We’re thrilled to start again next week after her summer break!

google

Art+Academy is a fantastic art school! I appreciate the ease & flexibility with the sign up process and to a make up a missed class. The owner is very responsive. My two kids (teen class & 9-12yo class) have been attending for several months and love their teachers. In fact, because of the class make up policy, my kids have met & learned from several teachers and all of them have been so kind, engaging and skilled! I’ve been impressed. All the teachers we’ve come across really care about the kids as people and as artists and my kids feel that respect and care. We’ve seen my kids’ skills (& art) improve with the constructive feedback from talented teachers.

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Fantastic teachers, right on task with age appropriate activities and always enriching the creativity. Going back this summer.

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My kiddo loved her camp experience here. They got to draw and paint animals from around the world and all of the kids had such cute pictures to present. We will be back for sure!

google

I’ve been attending art classes for about 5 years now. I’ve grown a ton in my skills and confidence. The teachers are all super supportive. The teaching is personalized to individuals based on your own interests. And the studio, in general, is also super flexible and adaptable to my busy schedule. I highly recommend!

google

We have had such a lovely experience here. Our daughter has jumped leaps and bounds with the amazing instruction she is getting!

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Since 2021, my daughter has been attending these art classes. Under the tutelage of Ms. Marcia, she has unleashed her creativity as she explores various mediums such as pastel, acrylic, watercolor… among others. Also, she has improved her tracing skills since then, and is more aware of the perspective and colors palette when drawing and painting. Teachers are nurturing, and encourage the kids to express themselves artistically delving into their themes of interest. The academy holds an annual showcase, presenting a fantastic opportunity for her to exhibit her artistic growth and to immerse herself in the diverse styles and talents of her peers. Its accommodating policy on making up for missed classes adds to the convenience. All in all, this is a great space for nurturing your kids’ artistic skills!

google

Art Plus Academy is not just a great place to learn how to draw, paint, and use other media. It’s teachers help you learn how to see the world in a different way. I’ve been taking classes there since 2018, and I’m really happy with the progress I’ve made. My artwork is just getting better and better. You can’t go wrong with the teachers here and the community and friends you will build and make with other students.

google

My girls love ART+ Academy! Last fall, I put my daughters in the in-person ART+ classes and they loved it. They learned new techniques, they flourished, and they were so excited to show me their progress each week. Then in the spring, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, I turned to the online ART+ classes. Their teacher, Johanna Heilman, made the transition to virtual learning so easy at a time when my daughters needed the consistency, routine, and familiarity of their art classes the most. I now have them enrolled in the online summer ART camps and they couldn’t be happier.

google

Una muy buena opción para los chiquitines y adultos con ese grandioso don del arte, la atención y desarrollo de las clases de primera. Totalmente recomendado.

Tuition & Fees

Your tuition provides four(4) consecutive weekly art classes. If you start in the middle of the month, we’ll simply prorate your tuition based on your registration date.

For Kids and Teen Classes, a quarterly admin fee applies in September, December, and March. We will also prorate the admin fee in you enroll in the middle of the quarter.

Materials

We provide all materials for kids and teen classes; you only need to bring your student.

Students will explore a wide range of materials, including watercolor, tempera paint, pastels, charcoal, ink, acrylic paint, and more.  

5.0
google

Monica, thank you and your entire team for the support you have given us, thank you for helping Joan excel in something that he really loves. you and your academy and your work team are the best things that have touched our lives. We received word that one of Joan’s drawings has been selected for a school district exhibit.

omar Garcia March 28, 2023
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My daughter’s progress in art is phenomenal, she loves going to the academy. Her teacher is great!

Victoria Fonseca September 6, 2023
google

My six-year-old son had a great time! After the first day of camp, he was so excited and looked forward to going each day thereafter. He often checked with me to make sure I had not forgotten. 🙂 He definitely wants to attend next Summer and I’m sure he will. The teacher (Ms. Morgan) was super as well. He usually would give her a hug before leaving each day. The portfolio show on the last day was also terrific and nicely laid out. My son was so proud to show off his accomplishments. Next year I suspect he will be attending 2 or 3 camps. Thanks so much to Art Academy for giving him such a wonderful experience!!

Jay Todd August 16, 2016
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The team are very focused on individual learning needs. My 6 year old son always looks forward to his weekly lessons! Marlene is very kind and gentle with the children.

Jules TJ (JTJ) February 3, 2022
google

Great art studio (clean and spacious) for kids and adults! Supportive and caring teachers for my teens! The teachers always motivate my teens to explore and encourage their creativity. My teens have been long term students there. Strongly recommended!

Brenda Deng August 14, 2024
google

Art Academy SW has been a fantastic experience for our daughter. Her skills and confidence have increased especially in regards to shading, dimension, use of color and different media. Class sizes are small allowing for kids to remain focused and have some individual direction while working on projects. Mr. Matt is an outstanding and engaging instructor!

Margaret Bloch April 7, 2025
google

Adult classes at the Art + Academy are designed to inspire all levels of artistic talent, from beginners to advanced. Thanks to the excellent instructors, the interaction between aspiring artists is also a driving force for the creative spirit. I have been a student at the Studio for over four years and can recommend the Art + Academy without hesitation.

Sarah O'Neil August 15, 2024
google

This place takes their job seriously and really does a great job teaching and immersing kids into their art. Great and fast communication when there is any sort of issue. They really try and accommodate any personal requests to make things work for the student and get them involved. I do find their rates slightly expensive, BUT they really deliver on the quality of their studio and lessons and we’ve really loved it!

Rebecca C July 28, 2020
google

This is an Art Academy that teaches children and adult classes. Students have beginner to advanced knowledge in drawing and painting. There are several locations, great instructors and a goal to teach YOU to be a better artist. You will like it here!

Cecilia Richardson February 7, 2025
google

My son and I have been going here to learn painting, sketching , charcoal. All the teachers are amazing and really passionate about art. It has re-kindled in me the love for art and really thankful for the wonderful teachers including Ms. Southworth who is an amazing teacher and artist.

Arnab Gupta August 15, 2024
google

I’ve been taking adult drawing/painting lessons for the past 3 years now. Every teacher I’ve met has been excellent, kind and very knowledgeable. The other students that I’ve met are also always very nice and wonderful people, and it’s great to be able to learn from other adults who are coming from different levels of experience. I just love this place

Eduardo Sanchez August 14, 2024
google

We have been going to this art studio for many years now. We love all the teachers and their methodology. Ms. Rose is especially wonderful! My kids learn much more than drawing and painting. They are more creative, have more discipline, and learn to see things though different perspectives outside the studio as well.

Karine North November 20, 2023
google

I have two kids, who take classes at the South Austin location. They love it! The teachers are kind and patient. The kids enjoy the classes immensely and have grown as artists. We highly recommend Art+ Academy if your kids like art and want to learn how to be a better artist. It is a caring and encouraging environment. My favorite part is Gallery Day at the end of each year. You get to walk through and see EVERYONE’s art on display and leave notes on any that speak to you. It is so important for my kids to see their work on public display and receive positive feedback on the part of themselves they shared in a particular piece of art. It is the highlight of the year!

Ingrid Thomas August 15, 2024
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I started art lessons in December in the three hours every Tuesday adult class which Monica was teaching. I have grown and learned so much! I basically started at zero, with a love for trying craft projects and doing artistic things without any real knowledge of drawing. I feel like Monica always intuitively knows what to draw my attention to and where to push me. I would recommend this class to anyone! We even had some subs in May when Monica had to be out and each of the teachers were highly knowledgeable and great at teaching. If you’re thinking about taking a class, just do it! You won’t regret it 🙂

google

These art classes are wonderful! They teach real technique and use multi-media. We are so excited for the upcoming art show they put on every year! I’ve been trying not to look at my daughters art so I can be surprised! One suggestion is that their scheduling system links up to your phone calendar. I’ve made multiple make-up class appointment. But they are all at different times and I’ve missed them since they don’t have an option to link up to my calendar.

Johanna Parrish April 4, 2023
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My 12 year old loved the summer camp. To the point that she’s asked to take classes at Art+Academy this new school year.

Toni D July 8, 2018
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Love taking classes here. Class sizes are perfect and teacher is cool

gaby L September 17, 2024
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Teachers are kind and welcoming, and my son has plenty of fun while learning how to paint. Thank you Art+ Northwest Austin!

Kunal Jindal September 1, 2023
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My son has been attending SW Art+ Academy for a couple years now. I have really appreciated the smaller classes so that teachers can provide more personalized attention to the kids. Monica is reasonable & responsive to the various requests I have made, too, which I have appreciated. My son recently finished the Watercolor Art Camp, and really enjoyed his time with Mr. Matt! He had many nice items of artwork to proudly show off at his Art Gallery today.

Ulia Karabian July 28, 2023
google

My daughter loves the classes here. Small groups and patient instructors. Also her skills improve a lot.

Bin Fang August 14, 2024

Start
Today

We will prorate your tuition if you join mid-month.

Professional
Artists

Learn from professional artists who are also experienced, passionate educators.

SMALL
CLASSES

With a small class ratio (1:8), students explore their creativity with personalized attention.

Improve
your Skills

No matter your starting point, we help you build strong techniques and reach the next level.

Missed
a Class?

No problem! Make it up in another class as long as you're still enrolled.

Locally
Owned

Over 16 years of service since 2009 — fostering creativity and community growth.

Pick your location

and find the perfect class for you
CEDAR PARK
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NORTHWEST
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SOUTHWEST
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