Kandice VincentA friend of mine recently decided to pick up a new hobby and enrolled in an art class close to her place. Unfortunately, the teacher was boring, the studio was cramped, and the classes were more about copying than creating.
Knowing my love for exploring Toronto’s arts scene, she turned to me for help finding top-notch art classes in the city. I dug deep into my trusty network of art enthusiasts and online resources to curate a list of promising studios.
After a few weeks, she was beaming! Her new teacher was inspiring, the studio was bright and spacious, and she was learning so much.
So, for those of you looking to unleash your inner Picasso, here are some of the best art classes Toronto has to offer.
How much do art classes cost in Toronto?
On average, art classes in Toronto cost $20 to $50 per hour for group classes. Specialized or private lessons may cost more, ranging from $50 to $100 per hour or more.
Prices can vary widely depending on the studio, instructor, and duration of the class. Some studios also offer discounted rates for multi-class packages or memberships.
How We Chose the Best Art Classes in Toronto
1. Verbeek Glass Studio
Verbeek Glass Studio, located in Toronto’s Leslieville neighborhood, is led by an award-winning artist and has been around for more than 6 years.
We love their glass workshops for all ages and skill levels. For instance, they offer kids classes from 5+, family/group classes, themed classes (e.g. Ladies’ Night), and more!
Their team-building workshops also sound like a great way to have fun and get creative with colleagues.
The fact that you get to choose from more than 75 different glass colors is super cool—it’s like playing with a giant box of crayons for adults! And leaving your project to be fused and finished is a nice touch.
While the focus on glass is definitely a strength, it also limits the variety of art forms you can explore. But if you’re into glass, this is definitely the place to be.
Pros
- Over 6 years of experience
- Offers kids, family, adult, and themed workshops
- Also offers team-building workshops
- Offers more than 75 different glass colors
- They take care of the fusing
Cons
- Works only with glass
Ton of fun and a great space to be creative!
“I attended the Glass Bowl class and it was amazing! Layne was clear and had a great sense of humor! The class is challenging for anyone who is a perfectionist or indecisive, but a ton of fun and a great space to be creative! The best part is my bowl turned out great!”
Corinne Dinino, Google Review
Had a fantastic time!
“Had a fantastic time! Layne gave us a quick intro on glass and its properties, how to cut it for our bowl and how to go about designing our piece. I am very happy with my bowl and would encourage anyone looking for a fun, creative way to spend an evening/afternoon to sign up for a workshop.”
Robin Cohen, Google Review
2. Studio Mooi
Studio Mooi is basically an artist’s playground! Tanya Todd, the brains behind it all, wanted to share her love of art with everyone, and boy, did she deliver.
From knitting to candle making, and everything in between, her studio has a workshop for just about anyone. Even the little ones aren’t left out with their fun kids’ camps and after-school clubs.
And for those who want to host a party (kids’ birthdays, baby showers, etc.) or a corporate event (team building, workshops, etc.), they’ve got customizable packages. You can make it as artsy or chill as you want.
We’re also impressed that they were featured in the Toronto Star and Beach Metro Community News—they definitely got some cred!
One thing to keep in mind is that their classes aren’t exactly cheap. But hey, if you’re serious about learning a new craft or just want a fun, creative outlet, Studio Mooi might be worth the splurge.
Pros
- Wide range of art classes
- Kids’ camps and after-school clubs
- Offers customizable party packages
- Featured in media publications
Cons
- Pricey
Taken four workshops at Studio Mooi now and loved each one
“I have taken four workshops at Studio Mooi now and loved each one. I felt welcomed as soon as I first stepped through the front door. The Studio offers an incredibly diverse range of arts and crafts workshops – there is something for everyone. The instructors are talented; they excel at their crafts and they offer a wonderful learning experience, where you can feel free to experiment. Tanya, who owns Studio Mooi, has created a lovely studio space; bright and cheery, the perfect place to come out and play with a new craft and have fun.”
Julie Hannaford, Google Review
I fell in love with this place
“My partner and I visited for a block-printing class and fell in love with this place. The space is open and inviting, the facilitator was incredible, and we came away with a new hobby – and got free snacks while we were at it. If you’ve ever thought about doing literally anything artsy or if you’re craving community and a fun way to meet new friends, check Studio Mooi out! They host tons of classes on all sorts of disciplines, and there is almost certainly something for you.”
Pat Reddick, Google Review
3. May Arts Gallery Education
May Arts Gallery Education offers a pretty wide range of art courses right in the heart of the city. It’s like a one-stop shop for artists of all levels!
You can dive into classic art styles like painting and sketching, or explore more modern fields like fashion design and digital media.
What’s cool is that you can also hire professional art tutors who are actually senior art students, so they can share their passion for art in a relatable way.
Plus, the location is super convenient, right by schools, public transport, and even some tasty food spots. Don’t worry about safety either—the place is secure with 24-hour monitoring and plenty of parking.
The only downside is that the classes might cost you a pretty penny. But hey, if you’re serious about honing your artistic skills, it might be worth the investment.
Pros
- Wide range of art courses
- Has professional art tutors
- Accessible location
- Very secure place
Cons
- Pricey
I absolutely love studying at this art studio!
“I absolutely love studying at this art studio! The teacher here is not only super nice but also incredibly talented and passionate about art. The atmosphere is always filled with such a creative and artistic vibe, which truly inspires students to unleash their creativity and produce beautiful artwork. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this studio provides the perfect environment for learning and growing as an artist. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore their artistic talents!”
Arii Vanderzee, Google Review
Excellent environment for aspiring art students
“This art studio provides an excellent environment for aspiring art students. The atmosphere is conducive to creativity, and the teacher is approachable and friendly. I thoroughly enjoy the inviting atmosphere in this art studio, and the teachers are not only patient but also exceptionally supportive. It truly creates a fantastic learning environment.”
Qihan Li, Google Review
4. Toronto Art
If you’re dreaming of turning your artistic passion into a career, Toronto Art might be your ticket. The studio is led by Janet Park, a former director of Gallery M Contemporary Fine Art, so you know you’re in good hands.
This private art school specializes in preparing students for top-tier art schools across the US, UK, and Canada. It offers a range of courses designed to build a strong art portfolio.
In fact, students can master the fundamentals of drawing and painting and learn to capture the human form through life drawing. They can also dive into more specialized areas like fashion design and animation.
While their focus is on portfolio preparation for college, they also offer shorter classes.
We did hear that this school might not be equipped to cater to those with special needs. If this is a concern, maybe bring this up during their 20-minute free consultation.
Pros
- Led by a former director of Gallery M
- Specializes in portfolio-building classes
- Also offers fashion design and animation
- Long and short-term classes available
- 20-minute free consultation
Cons
- Might not be ideal for those with special needs
I was able to create an amazing portfolio
“With the amazing help and guidance of Toronto Art’s team, I was able to create an amazing portfolio. I was able to get accepted into multiple Architecture programs, including my top choice program! It is very clear how much heart they put into helping every single one of their students. I am very grateful for their dedication to my success! Fantastic school.”
Nela L, Google Review
I got into every school I applied to with generous scholarships!
“I got into every school I applied to with generous scholarships! (RISD, Parsons, MICA, Ringing, OCAD, Sheridan). I went here for a little more than a year and learned a lot. Jun gives personalized feedback and is very good at teaching life drawing (highly recommend taking). Janet is super supportive and will guide you towards all the portfolio details. They teach art techniques while also encouraging creativity. Jun and Janet both have lots of experience. The studio also has a ton of art books and supplies you can use to explore and take inspiration from. Other instructors at the studio are very helpful as well. I found many friends there who are passionate about art. Would definitely recommend.”
Dian Yin, Google Review
5. Pinot’s Palette
Pinot’s Palette is basically a party with paintbrushes! It’s a fun spot to hang out with friends, celebrate special occasions, or even bond with your coworkers.
We like that they’ve got classes for everyone, from adults to kids, and even host private parties. The best part is that you can sip on wine, beer, or cocktails while you’re unleashing your inner Picasso.
Just remember, you can’t bring your own booze, so you’ll have to enjoy their selection. But don’t worry about food, you can bring whatever you like to munch on.
One thing to keep in mind is that you can’t just drop by—you need to book your spot ahead of time.
And if you’ve got little ones under 13, they might not be the best fit for a regular class. But for older kids and adults, Pinot’s Palette is a cool way to spend an evening.
Pros
- Classes for 13+ and adults
- Offers wine, beer, or cocktails
- Can bring your own food
- No age restriction for private parties
Cons
- No walk-ins
- Not for kids 12 and below
Indulging in wine and canvas painting is an absolute delight!
“Indulging in wine and canvas painting at this activity place is an absolute delight! The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, making it the perfect setting for a fun evening with your partner or friends. With glowing paint provided, the creative possibilities are endless, and the experience becomes even more magical. Sip on wine, unleash your inner artist, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Highly recommended for a unique and enjoyable outing!”
Vinisha D’Souza, Google Review
Highly recommended for dates/ friend dates and beginners!
“It was such a fun and relaxing experience! Great Sunday date with my friend.
The instructor was easy to follow, the vibe of the place is very artsy and cute! Highly recommended for dates/ friend dates and also for beginners! Even if you are terrible at art, since the instructions are so easy to follow, you end up creating a cute art piece.”
Beaus Hasan, Google Review
