5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Try An Art Class

Open Your Artistic Creative Mind and Try Something New

Every artist gets brain fog or loses inspiration so why not try a painting course. While I'm the posterchild for "NO RULES" in painting, there is nothing wrong with seeking new techniques and tools. In just a few classes you can learn a different way to mix colors or mark making, find some new tools or tips of the trade. Artists love to share their tricks and what better way to learn new ideas is by taking a class.

My suggestions will be to find a class that isn't too heavy on the "RULES" of painting and seek inspiration and technique options. I used to have a professor that graded me on all of the textbook rules of painting and it was like taking the air out of your balloon.

Create Your Own Style

Do you have a design in mind for art? If you are seeking more direction, more definition, an art class might help you find that perfect niche. Not to say your style might change in a few days/weeks/months, but for now, a class might help you better define your likes, dislikes and style. A good way to help define your style is to create a series of paintings in the same theme - variations with the same subject, same textures, same print making, all of the above. You might come to see there is one particular style you really enjoyed doing.

Get Inspired

There is something called 'steal like an artist' where you don't actually plagiarize their work, but you use the best elements of their work to inspire yours. When you are around other artists in a classroom setting, you will begin to see all types of elements in their works that might just turn on that creative lightbulb.

Share Your Story

Be original, show off your stye and tell your story. An art class just might be the best sounding board yet. You will get feedback from like-minded people and as much as you love your best friend or even your cat, they are maybe not the best people to ask when seeking opinions about your art.

Feed Your Soul

There is nothing like being in a room filled with creative minds. Even if you don't walk away with any new 'lessons', you will at least have fed your soul with art food. I suggest that if for any other reason you take a class is to feed that insatiable hunger for comfort. Be it colors, textures, subject matter, an artist needs soul food to unleash the inner spirit. Go play.


NOTES: On a sidebar, there are some fabulous artists that teach annual classes online and while a little expensive, they are upwards of 10 weeks long and will cater to abstract and representational artists at the same time. Suggest you look at (my favorite) Louise Fletcher Art, Betty Franks Art, Nicholas Wilton Art2Life, Julie Schumer - most of these artists offer a free course before the extended sessions begin so you can get a taste of their style. Some are better in instruction that others.


And don't forget to look at your local colleges for courses. Especially in the senior bracket, there are many schools that offer free or very low cost options. Check your galleries, libraries, local Arts Alliances. There are so many options out there so go check them out. Happy Painting.