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Painting Classes Chicago

Unlock your inner artist and explore the world of painting with a diverse range of classes in Chicago. From beginner to advanced, discover new techniques, develop your skills, and gain the confidence to create beautiful works of art.

22 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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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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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 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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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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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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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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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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Shooting + Spinning Painting Experience (2-4 People)

Shot of Art Chicago @ 1700 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL

Unleash your inner artist and create stunning abstract works of art using airsoft guns and paint-filled balloons in this unique and immersive creative experience. Get ready to shoot and spin your way to a masterpiece with the experts at Shot of Art Chi.

All levels 18 and older

Spinning Paint Experience (2-4 People)

Shot of Art Chicago @ 1700 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL

Unleash your creativity with a unique abstract painting technique that combines splashes and drips for a mesmerizing masterpiece. Join us for a one-of-a-kind art experience that will leave you spinning with excitement.

All levels 3 and older

High School: College Portfolio

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Explore artistic techniques and concepts to create a compelling body of work that reflects your unique artistic voice. Elevate your portfolio with guidance from experienced instructors in a supportive and inspiring environment.

(83) All levels 14 - 18 years old
$370

5 sessions

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Drawing and Painting The Nude: The Long Pose

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity as you delve into the art of capturing the human form through drawing and painting. Explore the nuances of the long pose and develop your artistic skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. Immerse yourself in a transformative artistic journey at a renowned art institution.

(83) Intermediate 18 and older
$445

9 sessions

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Evening Drawing & Painting Studio

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity alongside fellow artists in a supportive environment. Explore various mediums while refining your techniques and honing your artistic voice. From concept to execution, immerse yourself in a world of composition, value, and color, and watch your creations flourish.

(83) All levels 18 and older
$435

10 sessions

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Adult WaterColors

The Paintbrush @ 2446 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

Discover the beauty and versatility of watercolor painting in this exclusive adults-only class. Enhance your skills or start from scratch as you immerse yourself in the vibrant world of watercolors. Join us at The Paintbrush and unleash your creativity with our expert guidance and provided materials.

(4) All levels 15 and older
$340

7 sessions

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ART for Tots/Preschoolers

The Paintbrush @ 2446 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

Introduce your little ones to the world of art through hands-on lessons at The Paintbrush. Join us for a creative adventure where toddlers and preschoolers can explore various artistic techniques like drawing, painting, and collaging. Don't miss out on the fun in our art-themed playroom!

(4) All levels 2 - 5 years old
$225

7 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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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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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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Reviews for Painting Classes in Chicago

Painting Classes in Chicago are rated 4.4 stars based on 376 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • 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 Painting Classes in Chicago

Do you live in Chicago? Are you looking for a new hobby that will allow you to express yourself? It might be a good idea to try painting. This method of artistic expression–in which paint, pigment, color, or another medium is applied to a solid surface–dates back to prehistory, when nomadic people created paintings on rocky walls using charcoal. The oldest paintings discovered to date were found in Spain, and they are thought to be over 42,000 years old. The most commonly used tool to apply paint is a brush, but other tools, such as knives, spatulas, sponges, and airbrushes can be used alone or in combination with brushes. Any person of any age or ability level can learn to paint.

Why You Should Learn Painting in Chicago

Learning painting in Chicago can be a great way to relieve the stress of everyday life, especially if you like to do things with your hands during your free time. You may also like the aspect of painting that can be related to doing things for other people. This can come in many forms, such as creating a special gift in the form of a painting that they can hang in their home. This could be a painting of them, their pet, a landscape, or a special memory that is meaningful to them.

There is a large community of people who enjoy painting, both as a hobby and as a profession. Once you have mastered the basics of painting, you might want to research local clubs, groups, events, or organizations where you can meet other people who like painting. These groups could be in-person, but they could also be online, and pretty soon you may find yourself with a brand new social circle.

Lastly, learning painting is a marketable skill that you may be able to turn into a side hustle or even a new job altogether. You could easily begin selling your paintings through an online marketplace, or in person at a craft fair close to where you live. You may even be able to start taking commissions, where you create custom paintings based on the requests of your customers.

In-Person Painting Classes & Schools in Chicago

If you want to learn painting in an in-person environment, CourseHorse can connect you with classes in Chicago. For example, Intro to Painting I & II takes place at the Discovery Center in Irving Park. This beginner-level class allows you to express your own unique style through painting while you learn the fundamentals of color blending and balance. Taught in four sessions, this class utilizes water-based paints, and you get to select the style in which you paint. Another Discovery Center offering is Mixed Media Art, which is also four sessions. In this class, you will learn how to create dynamic, multi-layered compositions using watercolors, acrylic inks, pastels, images, found objects, and more. Techniques explored include but are not limited to painting, drawing, collage, printing, photo transferring, and assemblage. 

Painting with Gelli Plates is held at Evanston Art Center and is a unique class that utilizes Gelli Plate monotypes to add an exciting twist to painting. You will work in layers and create one-of-a-kind paintings on paper while also learning how to use mark-making, stencils, and masking. Painting with Acrylics is also offered at the Evanston Art Center and gives you a strong introduction to painting in which you will learn about color mixing, painting techniques, and composition. You will receive one-on-one instruction and be encouraged to develop personal themes.

Painting the Stages of Growth in Nature is offered by the Chicago Botanic Garden, and aims to explore growth and change from a new perspective. You will paint both en plein air and in the studio over the course of four sessions, with each painting you create gaining inspiration from plant life or butterflies.

Beginning/Intermediate Oil Painting is another Evanston Art Center course that takes place over six sessions. This multi-level painting class will teach you the basics techniques of oils. You will explore color theory, mixing, multiple mediums, and various applications in several fun exercises.

Virtual Painting Classes & Schools

While you might be intimidated by the idea of taking an online painting class at first, they have their pros and cons just like in-person painting classes. Something good about taking a virtual painting class is that you can attend the class from anywhere. Feel free to work on your painting project at home, in your backyard, or even in a public space like a park. You also do not have to commute to a classroom when you take an online painting class, which saves you both money and time. The biggest con about taking an online painting class is that you generally have to supply your own materials and equipment.

If you are interested in online painting classes, CourseHorse has options that will work for you. 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. Beginner Watercolor Online is a six-session course focused on botanicals, and you will learn to paint with luminous, sparkling watercolors. Enjoy acquiring new techniques and learning through fun activities that transition into studies and landscapes. 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.

Private Group Painting Classes in Chicago

Do you live or work in Chicago? Are you interested in scheduling a painting class as a fun team-building event for your business or organization? CourseHorse offers painting classes for private groups in Chicago that they can deliver to you. Virtual Watercolor Workshop (Materials Included) takes up to 225 participants at a time, and all materials are provided for the class. You and your coworkers will have fun learning new techniques to create an abstract painting in a relaxing and creative atmosphere. Virtual Acrylic Painting (Materials Included) will take up to 500 participants per course and all materials are included. This class will teach those in your group how to create a painting together on canvas. While you will all be working on the same painting, the end products will be unique to each artist. Virtual Watercolor Georgia O’Keeffe (Materials Included) is another workshop that takes up to 225 people and includes all the materials you need to learn. This unique 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. And remember that when you book with CourseHorse, 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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