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Abstract Painting Classes NYC

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Unleash your inner artist with abstract painting classes in NYC. Learn techniques and explore your creativity as you make unique, expressive works of art that will leave you feeling inspired and accomplished.

6 classes in-person in NYC have spots left, and 2 classes live online are available.

Spinning Experience (2-4 People)

Shot of Art NYC @ 28 W 36th St, New York, NY

Experience the thrill of creating a unique masterpiece through the abstract painting technique of spinning. Unleash your creativity as you drip, splash, and pour paint onto the canvas, then watch it come to life as it spins. Join us at Shot of Art for an unforgettable artistic journey.

All levels 3 and older

Glow in the Dark Shooting & Spinning Experience (2-4 People)

Shot of Art NYC @ 28 W 36th St, New York, NY

Experience the enchantment of Shot of Art - After Dark, a glow-in-the-dark adventure perfect for date nights or group outings. Dive into a creative journey with glow paint bombs, airsoft guns, and protective gear. Unleash your artistic side and create lasting memories in our private studio.

All levels 18 and older

Shooting + Spinning Painting Experience (2-4 People)

Shot of Art NYC @ 28 W 36th St, New York, NY

Experience the thrill of shooting down paint-filled balloons and unleash your creativity as we spin your paint-splashed canvas into a stunning abstract masterpiece. Get ready for a unique artistic adventure at Shot of Art.

All levels 18 and older
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Art Room Experience (4-10 People)

Shot of Art NYC @ 28 W 36th St, New York, NY

Unleash your inner artist and transform a blank canvas into a masterpiece that extends beyond walls. Immerse yourself in an immersive art experience where you can paint freely, from floor to ceiling. Let your creativity flow in a personalized setting guided by expert instructors, and leave your mark on every surface.

All levels 3 and older

Graffiti Art Workshop

Graff Tours @ 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!

All levels 1 and older

East Village Studio Night | Women of Abstract Expressionism

ArtsClub @ 311 E 3rd St, New York, NY

Unveil the fascinating world of bold and innovative female artists who defied traditional artistic norms and redefined abstract expressionism. Elevate your understanding of abstract art through the lens of their visionary creations.

(26) All levels 18 and older

Introduction to Abstract Painting

New York School of the Arts @ Online Classroom

Unleash your creativity and explore the captivating world of abstract painting. Join us at the renowned New York School of the Arts to experiment with different techniques, delve into the properties of acrylic paint, and master color mixing. Discover the endless possibilities of composition, textures, and layers in this insightful course.

(73) Beginner 18 and older
$430

8 sessions

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Advanced Abstract Painting

New York School of the Arts @ Online Classroom

Expand your artistic horizons and deepen your understanding of abstract painting at the esteemed New York School of the Arts. Discover your visual vocabulary and explore different media as you experiment with abstract art within various artistic movements. Gain valuable technical demonstrations and personalized feedback to develop your body of work.

(73) Advanced 18 and older
$430

8 sessions

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Introduction to Abstraction (Intermediate/Advanced)

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

This course is structured to help bring about an awareness of the language, history, and technical skills associated with abstract painting. The class is open to a wide variety of skill levels, modes, and approaches to painting. Experimentation with materials and techniques form the backbone of the learning process. To achieve this, the instructor provides guidance through one-on-one discussion and group critiques. Projects in this class are optional...

(1061) Intermediate 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$569

12 sessions

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Approaches to Abstraction with Watercolor

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Unlock the limitless potential of watercolor as you delve into the world of abstraction. Discover innovative techniques to bring your artistic vision to life and explore the captivating possibilities that watercolor offers. Embrace the beauty of abstraction at 92nd Street Y.

(1061) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$350

6 sessions

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Abstract Painting: Inspiration & Development of Ideas

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Explore the issues central to abstract painting and the function of drawing in developing one’s own visual language. This class focuses on developing each artists’ passion to make abstract art through a range of activities, studying in particular how to explore ones inspiration and ideas via process and using a language specific to each artist to develop coherent abstract images. Artists are encouraged to work from source material that is personal...

(1061) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$579

14 sessions

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Painting Meditation

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Full Name: Painting Meditation: Creating a Unique Abstract Expressionist Artwork Inspired by Memory & Emotion Sharing Teaching Artist Pamella Allen’s studio process by utilizing basic acrylic painting and collage techniques with memory-based visualization. Participants will harvest colors and images of their most joyful moments and incorporate them into a unique composition with words, lines, texture, natural elements, and images that are unique...

(1061) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$335

6 sessions

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Advanced Abstract Painting

New York School of the Arts @ 315 E 62nd St, New York, NY

Expand your artistic horizons and deepen your understanding of abstract painting at the esteemed New York School of the Arts. Discover your visual vocabulary and explore different media as you experiment with abstract art within various artistic movements. Gain valuable technical demonstrations and personalized feedback to develop your body of work.

(73) Advanced 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$430

9 sessions

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Abstract Painting: The Process

New York School of the Arts @ 315 E 62nd St, New York, NY

We will explore the issues central to abstract painting and the function of drawing in developing one’s own language. This class focuses on developing each artist’s passion for making abstract art through a range of activities, studying in particular how to explore one’s inspiration and ideas via the process and using a language specific to each artist to develop these ideas into coherent images. Artists are encouraged to work from the source...

(73) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$240

4 sessions

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Abstraction: Development of Language and Imagery

New York School of the Arts @ 315 E 62nd St, New York, NY

Discover the power of abstract painting at the New York School of the Arts. Unleash your creativity and develop your own artistic language through a range of activities. Engage in a dialogue with contemporary artists and explore your unique sources of inspiration.

(73) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$430

8 sessions

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Abstract Painting: The Essential

New York School of the Arts @ 315 E 62nd St, New York, NY

Through classroom practice and art historical study students will begin to experiment with the How’s and Why’s of abstract painting. Students will research, share and discuss modern and contemporary works of art and discuss their relevance and importance in the ongoing dialogue of art history while developing their own body of work. Students will be introduced to a variety of experimental techniques and practices and be encouraged to work to...

(73) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$350

4 sessions

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Planet Mandala Painting Workshop

Sacred Arts Research Foundation @ 107 Green St, Brooklyn, NY

For thousands of years tantric seers have observed the powerful influence of the planets on the human spirit. Indian astrology, has long understood that while the energy released by the orbiting planets affects our lives, it is also an energy that can be directed and harnessed to improve our spiritual, mental and physical well being. Mandala's sacred circular energy patterns reflect our inner nature. Using an ancient number grid,...

(9) All levels 8 and older
No upcoming schedules

Abstract Acrylic on Canvas Paintings @ That Bar

Private Picassos Art Studio & Shop @ 47 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Students will learn basic acrylic painting techniques, including creating tints and shades, color mixing and underpainting.  After ample time to explore these techniques on canvas paper, we’ll then work on a finished painting on a canvas panel. Learn new techniques with our trained instructors and explore art materials on your own. Create your own masterpiece without the restrictions of "copying" the teacher.  All materials will be...

(26) All levels 16 and older
No upcoming schedules

Mandalas of Intention: Natural Paint Making

Sacred Arts Research Foundation @ 107 Green St, Brooklyn, NY

Within spiritual symbolism, a mandala is a geometric figure representing the universe. Modern psychology mandalas can represent the ego and self. Using repetitive patterns to create mandalas stimulates focus, relaxation, and access to transcendental states of mind and being.  In this workshop we create mandalas of intention to call in the aspects of our lives we want to empower through the process of painting and printing. To create our mandalas...

(9) All levels 8 and older
No upcoming schedules

Abstract Painting with Acrylics (5 Sessions)

Trestle Workshops @ 850 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY

In these five-class workshops (a total of 15 hours), students will create a series of eight paintings/drawings from classwork and homework assignments. Novice and experienced painters are welcome. This class will help students delve into personal symbolism to find an authentic voice in their work.  For inspiration we will look at a mixture of art history and contemporary art. Class exercises will address line, shape, format, texture, composition,...

(326) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$275

5 sessions

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Reviews for Abstract Painting Classes in NYC

Abstract Painting Classes in NYC are rated 4.5 stars based on 1,521 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

Discover the Best Abstract Painting Classes in NYC

Rather than trying to paint recognizable figures or images, Abstract painters use abstract elements such as lines, colors, shapes, and textures in their work. They try to create a visual experience that is independent of reality, and believe that each viewer will have a different experience and interpretation, depending on their own unique perspectives and experiences. Many Abstract painters do not explain their own work, instead leaving interpretation up to their audiences.

Abstract painting is believed to have started in the early twentieth century, with German artist Wassily Kandinsky. The development of this style was a turning point in art history, because artists started to focus on expression in addition to representation. Abstract painting has continued to evolve since then. It has become a popular form of artistic expression, and has played an important role in the development of modern art.

Why You Should Learn Abstract Painting in NYC

Learning abstract painting can be rewarding in many different ways. Some students enjoy the unique way that this type of art lets them explore their emotions and ideas. Others find painting to be a meditative process that relieves stress and helps with relaxation. For some people, abstract painting can be a good way to connect with their emotions or work through difficult life experiences. 

In addition to being personally rewarding and therapeutic, learning abstract painting can also be rewarding in the way that students need to master new skills and learn to think about things in a different way. While abstract painting might appear to be spontaneous and chaotic, this type of art actually requires skill and practice. For instance, artists need to learn brush techniques, and how to mix colors and layer them. Many new Abstract painters also need to learn to think about art in a different way–as something independent from external reality–and that can be challenging.

In-Person Abstract Painting Classes & Schools in NYC

New York City is known for its diverse art scene. and is home to many abstract painters. Students will find a variety of in-person abstract painting classes there. For example, the Brooklyn-based Creatively Wild Art Studio offers a two-hour class called Abstract Art Journey: Paint How U Feel. This class is intended to help individuals unlock their creative potential as they learn about abstract painting techniques. Students learn a variety of different brush techniques, explore the principles of color, and learn about space, shape, and value. The Creatively Wild Art Studio is dedicated to encouraging individual expressions and nourishing creativity. It offers a variety of different art classes, both in person and online. This class costs $80, which includes paint and brushes. Students need to supply their own canvas.

Another in-person option in the New York City area is Adult Focus on Painting. This class covers a number of different master oil painting techniques including underpainting, glazing, palette knife painting, action painting, and chiaroscuro. Students receive in-depth demonstrations and one-on-one instruction, and can work in an abstract style, or another style of their choice. Tuition is $235, and there are four sessions. The One River School is an art school that began in 2012, and has its own unique teaching method. It has campuses in a number of different cities, including in Englewood, New Jersey, which is about 15 miles from New York City.

Oil Painting I: Beginner Steps for Adults is another abstract painting class in New York City. It runs for two hours, and costs $80. In this class, students learn to paint in an abstract style–or they can use realism if they prefer–and work with oil paints. Students can bring in their own still life object, picture, or photo to work from. Oils and brushes are supplies, but students need to bring a canvas. The class takes place at the Creatively Wild Art Studio, which is in Brooklyn, a short drive from downtown New York City. Creatively Wild is a female-owned studio that welcomes artists of all ages and levels of experience. It has been operating since 2009, and aims to nurture creativity and create a welcoming place for artists to work.

Creatively Wild also offers a class called Adult Paint + Sip: Oil Painting II, which is for students who have completed a beginner oil painting class. Students in this class can also bring in their own subject matter to work from, and can paint in an abstract style, or another style of their choosing. They should bring their own canvas, and any speciality supplies, like pouring mediums, that they want to use. The class covers choosing the correct color palette, using tools to add depth and clarity, using a variety of different brushstrokes, choosing the right style, and creating values, gradients, and transitions. One class session costs $80, but more than one session is suggested so that students have time to finish a piece of work.

In Learning Art Through Creating Art, students of all levels can learn whatever style they want from artist and instructor Raphael-Raúl. Raphael-Raúl talks about art history and the philosophy of art in addition to helping students improve in their chosen style. He also provides feedback notes on a separate piece of paper that students can take home and use for further study. This class takes place at the Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshop, in the Chelsea art district in New York. It costs $210 for three sessions.

Virtual Abstract Painting Classes & Schools

Virtual abstract painting classes are another popular learning option. Virtual instruction takes place live and in real time, just like with an in-person class, however, students don’t need to commute to a classroom, and are not limited to options in the same city as them. Many people like virtual learning because it is more flexible than in-person learning.

Students who want to learn abstract painting might enjoy Color & Saturation: Watercoloring Still Lifes, a virtual class offered by the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The main focus of the class is creating a loose impression of a group of flowers and leaves, and combining it with more detailed elements. In the process, students learn about tonal intensity and color combinations. Students need to provide their own materials, including paints and paper. A detailed supply list is available online. This three-hour class costs $59.

Located near San Francisco, the Richmond Art Center is a community organization that encourages people to make and share art of all different types. It offers a variety of virtual art classes, including Abstract Painting, which runs for four sessions, and costs $120. Students in this class should already have some experience with abstract painting. They can use whatever materials they are comfortable with for the class. Sessions run via Zoom, and there is an average class size of 12 people.

Aspiring abstract painters might also be interested in Online Painting with Acrylics 301, which is offered virtually through Pastimes for a Lifetime. In this class, instructor and company founder Linda Wehrli covers a number of different painting styles, including abstract painting, over the course of four sessions. She also teaches students how to prepare a canvas and how to mix colors. Tuition is $160, and a supply list is provided online.

Private Group Abstract Painting Classes in NYC

A painting class can be the perfect way to entertain a group of people, with its combination of creativity and hands-on participation. CourseHorse offers a number of different private group abstract painting classes, both in-person in New York City, and online. It makes the booking process easy, with no booking fees and no registration, and provides a confirmation within 24 hours. It also allows you to make changes to your group size up to 72 hours before the event.

Color Workshop–Ink Dripping Art is a popular group class that takes place on the Lower East Side in New York City. Participants in this class create artwork by selectively dripping alcohol-based inks onto yupo paper. As the ink dries, it creates unique and colorful designs. This class runs for two hours and can accommodate up to 20 people. It costs $65 per person. Materials are provided, and every guest goes home with their own artwork.

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