The Art Academy in St. Paul is a traditional art school offering classes and summer camps for children, teens, and adults, with instruction in drawing, painting, anatomy, illustration, sculpture, and origami. Its curriculum emphasizes in-depth principles of form, color, and design for beginning to advanced students.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact The Art Academy directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
Powered by GoogleI was called and told I Would be given a refund if I took my comment down. I was waiting for the refund, but since the comment wasn’t taken down yet, the refund was canceled. That is messed up. Why should I take down the comment without getting my money back first? So crazy. Biggest waste of $260. If you are looking for actual instruction and to learn the basics of drawing/watercolor, then this class is not for you. I left without being told what value is, how color theory works, etc.
Delightful, incredibly experienced instructors work with you at your own pace. They are so nice! I have never painted before, never taken any classes, zero experience. They enabled me to paint both of these with watercolor. I never even knew watercolor was good for anything other than kids goofing around! They are amazing!
I wish I would have discovered this school sooner! The teachers couldn't be more passionate and supportive. This has been a great community to become a part of over the last few years. There is genuine interest from everyone to help support your goals in creating high quality art and growing your skills. I started as a complete beginner and have benefited from the structure it provides. I consider myself lucky to have this level of instruction available to me!
The Art Academy has been a part of my life for over 15 years. I started as a kid, taking classes that encouraged my passion for art and developing the skills that led me to become the working artist I am today. The curriculum is founded in Renaissance teachings that lead to actual development in the technical skill. Having attended a four-year fine art school after growing up at the Art Academy, I can confidently say this is the place that taught me the most in how to execute a proper painting. Whether you are a hobby artist, a professional who would like to learn Renaissance practices, or a parent whose child has a creative spark, I would highly recommend this as the place to let lead an artistic journey.
My 7 year old has not missed a session with The Art Academy since he turned age 5. He loves the format and gets so excited about his projects! It is a wonderful experience to have found instruction with a focus on quality over quantity, even with kids starting as young as Kindergarten.






