How do I choose the best online art masterclass for my needs?

When selecting an online art masterclass, consider your current skill level and budget. The article highlights options ranging from expensive programs with direct instructor feedback to very affordable or even free self-study resources. Prioritize classes that offer critiques if your budget allows, as feedback is crucial for development.

Do any of these online art masterclasses provide direct feedback or critiques?

Yes, some of the recommended masterclasses, such as Vilppu Academy, include weekly feedback on your submitted work. These programs often feature video lessons, assignments, and opportunities for group discussions or direct Q&As with instructors, mimicking a traditional art school experience.

Are there any free or budget-friendly online art masterclass options available?

Yes, the article mentions several affordable and free options. Ctrl + Paint offers a fabulous free resource for digital painting tutorials. Additionally, platforms like Udemy frequently run flash sales on their masterclasses, making them a budget-friendly choice for various art skills.

What specific art mediums or techniques are covered in these masterclasses?

The masterclasses cover a diverse range of art forms. You can find courses focused on traditional drawing techniques, digital painting from beginner to advanced levels, and fine art mediums such as oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor, and clay.

7 Best Online Art Masterclasses to Master Your Craft

Looking to brush up on your craft in the new year?

Best Online Art Courses

With no shortage of online art masterclasses available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. And while self-study is a great option to develop your skills as an artist, don’t forget that f eedback and critiques are essential too.

Some of these online art masterclasses include feedback from instructors and critiques, so if your budget allows I’d recommend checking one out.

However, if money is tight there are also some very affordable and even free options too.

With all that said, here’s 7 of the best online art masterclasses. There’s something here to suit every skill level and budget.

1. Vilppu Academy – Drawing Courses

Glenn Vilppu is known around the world for his drawing courses, and you can find them all in one place at Vilppu Academy. These courses are a little more on the expensive side (between $800 and $1500), but that’s because they include weekly feedback on your work.

Each week you’ll be sent a video lesson and assignment which you’ll email through once completed. Your work is then reviewed and sent back to you. You can also participate in group discussions and ask Glenn questions directly during Q&As. Just like going to a bricks and mortar art school!

What is Ctrl + Paint and what does it offer?

This is a fabulous FREE resource that teaches you the art of digital painting. The course consists of bite-size video tutorials that will teach you the basics through to more advanced digital painting techniques.

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at some digital art, you’ll definitely want to check out this online program.

What does Tucson Art Academy offer for fine artists?

The Tucson Art Academy is a great resource for fine artists in any medium; oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor and clay. They offer self-study courses, mentoring programs as well as downloadable video masterclasses with renowned artists.

If you’re a fine artist looking to brush up on your skills, be sure to check out Tucson Art Academy. Prices range from $395-$895.

4. Udemy The Complete Drawing Masterclass

If you’re after a more budget friendly class why not check out Udemy? They have loads of masterclasses for artists and run flash sales quite often.

In the complete drawing masterclass, you’ll learn new drawing techniques and quickly go from beginner to advanced. Perfect for the emerging artist or the more advanced artist who wants to refresh the fundamentals.

What does New Masters Academy offer?

This ‘Netflix’ style Art Academy is a subscription based platform. For just $35 per month you’ll gain access to 2000+ hours of learning material, interactive live classes and 50,000+ images to practice with.

New Masters Academy have a ton of classes in drawing, painting, and sculpture. They cover a range of topics such as landscapes, portraits, anatomy, art theory and more. They also have an optional coaching program for an additional fee.

6. Watts Atelier of the Arts

With over 20 years of experience teaching thousands of students at the Watts Atelier, Jeff Watts has created an online art academy based on the traditions of the masters.

There are over 21 fine art masterclasses to choose from, along with other online courses and some in-person offerings. You can sign up for a subscription starting from $49 per month and cancel at any time.

What does My Painting Club offer for artists?

For just $20 per month you’ll gain access to over 150 painting lessons, group workshops, critiques and more. My Painting Club has lessons in abstract, acrylics, drawing, oils as well as over 70 painting workshops.

If you’re struggling to find something to paint, you can simply type in a descriptor like ‘flowers’ or ‘mountains’ to the search bar and receive a number of relevant classes to choose from! They offer a 7 day free trial too.

So there you have it, 7 of the best online art masterclasses available today. I hope you find this list valuable and do let me know if you decide to try one of these classes.

And don’t forget – when it comes to developing your craft, the most important thing to do is just keep practicing.

Written by Crista Cloutier, artist mentor + founder of The Working Artist. (learn more about Crista here)