The 5 Best Art Classes in Sydney Even Beginners Love
Walking into an art class for the first time is always an intimidating experience. You worry everyone else knows what they’re doing, while you’re still figuring out the difference between charcoal and oil.
And Sydney is pretty much packed with creative spaces, from Surry Hills to Newtown. It’s easy to feel like you’re already behind. But thankfully, there are places that’ll make sure you can catch up with the basics.
We looked around for art classes in Sydney, paying attention to teaching and facilities to find the best studios. Here are the ones we found ideal for newbies dipping into art, whether for structured lessons or just pure fun.
How much do art classes cost in Sydney?
The cost of art classes in Sydney ranges from $40 to $90 per session. Private tutor ranges from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the instructor, duration, and materials included.
1. Art Class Sydney
Location: St Johns Church Hall Corner Spring and, Thomas St, Birchgrove NSW 2041
Contact: +61 422 685 151
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Comprehensive offerings matter to us, and Art Class Sydney definitely met our standards. They offered short courses, as well as intensive multi-day programs.
There’s flexibility in the programs, making them a great choice for various goals.
We appreciate the skills and knowledge of their artists, too. Instructions focus on both technical fundamentals and the creative process.
This allows learners to develop a personal artistic voice. At the same time, learn all art basics fast.
Classes are suitable for complete beginners and experienced artists. We especially liked that exercises are adjusted to remain challenging across mixed skill levels.
What’s even better is how solid the learning environment is. It’s relaxed, inclusive, and supportive. The studio itself is light-filled, including a bright church hall in Birchgrove.
One thing to keep in mind: popular classes tend to fill up quickly. Book as soon as you see new announcements for openings to secure a solid.
Gave new ways to look at art
“Loved the two day abstract art workshop run by Ochre Lawson in the light and airy church hall at Birchgrove. It gave me new ways to look at abstract art as well as practical steps for the creative process.”
Ruth Frettingham | Google Review
Flexible teaching style
“I have been doing Thursday nights now for a couple of years and always find them informative and fun! The classes can be as structured or unstructured as you like and Gabrielle is always on hand to offer advice and assistance. I like the approach which though informal has lots of interesting exercises to get the creative juices flowing. My artwork has improved heaps since going to the glasses even though I was a virtual novice at the start. There is also the chance to meet and see the work other students produce which is also fun. Thoroughly recommend these classes.”
Duncan Peacocke | Google Review
2. Waverley Woollahra Art School
Location: 138 Bondi Rd, Bondi NSW 2026
Contact: +61 2 9387 2461
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
At Waverley, we found consistency in how classes were run. Classes are structured around foundational skills such as tone, colour, and perspective.
The best part is that there’s still plenty of room to develop individual artistic styles.
We compared different formats, and the range stood out here. There are term classes, short courses, and focused workshops.
These options make them ideal for both complete beginners and expert artists,
We liked that the workshops are well-paced and designed to avoid overwhelming students. Equipment and materials are also provided, so it’s easy for students to focus rather than overly prepare.
Cost is also a major plus. There’s good value for money, especially for multi-hour workshops and term programs.
That said, a student noted that the location felt a bit small. We took a look, and the spaces can comfortably fit at least 12 students for a lesson.
Still, we get why certain learners may feel it’s too cramped for their taste.
Amazing art teacher
“Richard is quite an amazing teacher. It’s such a unique experience to be a student in his class. He excites you about travel, he has done so much and shares his stories, he gives very clear ‘how to’s’ and demonstrates the ‘how to’s’ His travel sketchbooks over decades are so varied and enchanting. I have seen both experienced artists and beginners all learn so much from him. All with him being very entertaining and funny.”
K A Christian | Google Review
Provided a great insight
“I attended a four hour oil painting workshop with Natalie Popovski today and had a wonderful time. Without overwhelming us with technical info she gave some great insights and encouraged us to get painting. Her support and advice during the event was so helpful and she helped me avoid judging myself too harshly. All the equipment was provided – the only slight disappointment was that the canvases were a bit scratchy and the paint quality a bit mixed. A wonderful way to spend a Saturday.”
Andrew Cornish | Google Review
3. National Art School
Location: 156 Forbes St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Contact: +61 2 9339 8744
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
After comparing various options, NAS was one of the few we liked for its studio-based approach. The focus stays on drawing, painting, sculpture, and contemporary practice.
There’s very little fluff around lessons, so learners can immediately pick up new skills.
We find them to be one of the most credible choices, too. NAS has decades of experience as Australia’s leading independent fine arts school.
Courses are taught by accomplished practising artists. This enables them to bring real-world experience, critical insight, and professional standards into the classroom.
The campus environment is also our favourite. It’s set within the former Darlinghurst Gaol with sandstone buildings and open courtyards.
This is an immersive setting for their wide range of programs. Speaking of which, they’re versatile in this area, too. They offer degree programs, short courses, and workshops.
While their long-term programs are some of the country’s best, their workshops sometimes miss the mark. A few students felt dissatisfied with the quality of teaching and the costs.
Perfect environment and friendly staff
“Best place to study fine arts. Perfect environment, friendly staff and students and art dedicated community.”
CoffeeCat | Google Review
Warm and relaxing atmosphere
“Such a lovely place inside the school! The atmosphere is warm and relaxing, and both the food and coffee are delicious. Highly recommend!”
BITNA JOENG | Google Review
4. Art Masterclass Sydney
Location: 191 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Contact: +61 459 713 881
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Art Masterclass Sydney felt more hands-on than most creative workshops we looked at.
This one focuses on making tangible art, including Turkish mosaic lamps, resin pieces, and candle holders.
According to students, instructors are always present and attentive. They moved around constantly, correcting small mistakes as soon as they spotted students making them.
We asked around and confirmed that beginners really feel comfortable here. This is thanks to quality teaching, where everything is explained without rushing.
The studio atmosphere also elevated the experience. Rather than feeling classroom-like, there are hanging lamps, soft music, and Turkish tea that make sessions feel relaxed.
Workshops run for about 2 and a half hours, which is just right. There’s enough time to learn and still enjoy the process.
Unfortunately, they’re a hit and miss when it comes to team members – some students noted staff who were rude at times.
There were also a few complaints about the quality of materials provided.
Amazing workshop
“I went there to learn how to do this Turkish Mosaic Lamp for 2 or 3 hours at darlinghurst nsw , they have a Beautiful lamps and nice things to have a look at , the teacher is very good to check the people for lamps or bowls with beautiful colours to choose 😀- I recommend this workshop is Amazing 👏 😀 …”
Jo Heather | Google Review
An easy class to follow
“Had a great time making my lamp tonight! The instructor was great and the class easy to follow. Bonus – great new piece for my home!”
Gabrielle Cervera | Google Review
5. The Art Studio
Location: Unit 1/94 Marine Parade, Maroubra NSW 2035
Contact: +61 403 710 327
The Art Studio stood out to us for how well it caters to both kids and adults. The range was also impressive, offering programs from weekly painting sessions to holiday workshops.
We also appreciate how well they work with children. They can successfully manage groups of up to 14 kids across a wide age range.
Students confirm that they feel engaged yet focused throughout structured activities.
The approach to teaching also met our standards. They prioritise originality and self-expression, which encourages students to develop their own ideas.
Rates are fair for the value provided, with all core art materials included.
Plus, flexibility makes all the costs worthwhile. Options include drop-in classes, multi-class passes, and memberships.
On the rough side, we heard a few complaints about scheduling issues in the past. There were also issues about session confirmation, though there’s nothing of recent involving this.
Engaging art instruction
“We recently celebrated my daughter’s 8th birthday at The Art Studio. It was a wonderful afternoon of painting, sharing food and enjoying beach views. Teachers were amazing and kept 14 kids engaged and provided simple instructions to complete step by step painting. The best part was that each child took a small memento from the party, which was their own canvas painting. We had kids from 5-11yo and all enjoyed it. Highly recommend it. Thank you Osnat and team!”
Olga Egay | Google Review
Original and creative
“My daughter absolutely loves the weekly art course and holiday program for kids! The teachers are fabulous and I appreciate that originality and creativity is encouraged at The Art Studio. Thanks again, Sin”
Sin Mariani | Google Review