Youth & Continuing Studies Courses

In this exciting workshop, your child's creativity will flourish as they learn to draw, sculpt, model, mold, sew, and prototype unique toys, stuffed animals, and action figures. Campers will begin by developing their characters through traditional illustrations before transitioning to 3D media. They will draw inspiration from classic and contemporary toys and accompanying cartoons or stories. Throughout the camp, students will explore various techniques and creative approaches to bring their toy designs to life.

This immersive experience offers a stimulating environment where young artists can develop as creative individuals while learning to solve problems innovatively. In addition to daily studio art projects, students will keep a sketchbook to capture their research, ideas, and reactions during visits to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, where they will explore captivating exhibits that inspire new ideas and fuel their imaginations. Campers will enjoy diverse artistic adventures with friends through experiments in painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, and more, creating lasting memories and friendships. Each session will have a different focus, allowing students who enroll in multiple sessions to encounter new studio projects each time.

This immersive experience offers a stimulating environment where young artists can develop as creative individuals while learning to solve problems innovatively. In addition to daily studio art projects, students will keep a sketchbook to capture their research, ideas, and reactions during visits to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, where they will explore captivating exhibits that inspire new ideas and fuel their imaginations. Campers will enjoy diverse artistic adventures with friends through experiments in painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, and more, creating lasting memories and friendships. Each session will have a different focus, allowing students who enroll in multiple sessions to encounter new studio projects each time.

Join fellow campers in imagining, designing, and creating a brand-new fantastical world filled with unique characters, vibrant wildlife, complex structures, captivating histories, and more. In this mixed-media course, students will complete projects in illustration and comics, sculpture, 3D modeling, and creative writing. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago will enhance studio activities and showcase the work of artists who have also crafted imaginative worlds. With hands-on guidance and endless opportunities for self-expression, this camp offers young creators the perfect way to turn their wildest ideas into a stunning, interactive universe.

This immersive experience offers a stimulating environment where young artists can develop as creative individuals while learning to solve problems innovatively. In addition to daily studio art projects, students will keep a sketchbook to capture their research, ideas, and reactions during visits to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, where they will explore captivating exhibits that inspire new ideas and fuel their imaginations. Campers will enjoy diverse artistic adventures with friends through experiments in painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, and more, creating lasting memories and friendships. Each session will have a different focus, allowing students who enroll in multiple sessions to encounter new studio projects each time.

This immersive experience offers a stimulating environment where young artists can develop as creative individuals while learning to solve problems innovatively. In addition to daily studio art projects, students will keep a sketchbook to capture their research, ideas, and reactions during visits to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, where they will explore captivating exhibits that inspire new ideas and fuel their imaginations. Campers will enjoy diverse artistic adventures with friends through experiments in painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, and more, creating lasting memories and friendships. Each session will have a different focus, allowing students who enroll in multiple sessions to encounter new studio projects each time.

This immersive experience offers a stimulating environment where young artists can develop as creative individuals while learning to solve problems innovatively. In addition to daily studio art projects, students will keep a sketchbook to capture their research, ideas, and reactions during visits to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, where they will explore captivating exhibits that inspire new ideas and fuel their imaginations. Campers will enjoy diverse artistic adventures with friends through experiments in painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, and more, creating lasting memories and friendships. Each session will have a different focus, allowing students who enroll in multiple sessions to encounter new studio projects each time.

This immersive experience offers a stimulating environment where young artists can develop as creative individuals while learning to solve problems innovatively. In addition to daily studio art projects, students will keep a sketchbook to capture their research, ideas, and reactions during visits to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, where they will explore captivating exhibits that inspire new ideas and fuel their imaginations. Campers will enjoy diverse artistic adventures with friends through experiments in painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, and more, creating lasting memories and friendships. Each session will have a different focus, allowing students who enroll in multiple sessions to encounter new studio projects each time.

Ignite your child's artistic potential in a summer art camp that fosters skill development and creativity by exploring diverse materials in a stimulating environment. Students draw inspiration from the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, local architecture, public art, and current events as they develop skills across multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, and mixed media. Additionally, they enhance their critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Projects foster personal expression and collaborative skills while introducing students to contemporary and historical art. Each session has a unique focus, ensuring that students who enroll in multiple sessions will experience entirely new studio projects every time.

Ignite your child's artistic potential in a summer art camp that fosters skill development and creativity by exploring diverse materials in a stimulating environment. Students draw inspiration from the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, local architecture, public art, and current events as they develop skills across multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, and mixed media. Additionally, they enhance their critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Projects foster personal expression and collaborative skills while introducing students to contemporary and historical art. Each session has a unique focus, ensuring that students who enroll in multiple sessions will experience entirely new studio projects every time.

The places where you live, go to school and shop significantly affect your daily life. In this camp, students will explore their environments and analyze how fundamental human needs, desires, and behaviors shape architectural design. The focus will be on the methods architects use to develop their ideas while also looking at the structures, materials, and technologies in historical and modern architecture. Through perspective drawing, drafting, model making, and digital software programs, students will explore the world-renowned architecture of Chicago. In addition to visiting the Art Institute of Chicago, they will engage in on-site sketching at historic buildings designed by architects such as Louis Sullivan and Mies van der Rohe. Students will study contemporary masterpieces such as Frank Gehry's Jay Pritzker Pavilion and Renzo Piano's Modern Wing to enrich their studio work.

In this camp, young artists have the opportunity to bring their imaginations to life through a variety of illustration techniques. Students will explore traditional and digital media as they experiment with graphic markers, illustration pens, watercolors, ink, sculpting materials, digital drawing tablets, and programs like Procreate. Whether they are designing unique characters, animals, objects, vehicles, or immersive environments, this hands-on experience encourages them to innovate, experiment, and express themselves creatively. It's the perfect opportunity for your child to unleash their creativity and build an impressive portfolio.

In this camp, young artists have the opportunity to bring their imaginations to life through a variety of illustration techniques. Students will explore traditional and digital media as they experiment with graphic markers, illustration pens, watercolors, ink, sculpting materials, digital drawing tablets, and programs like Procreate. Whether they are designing unique characters, animals, objects, vehicles, or immersive environments, this hands-on experience encourages them to innovate, experiment, and express themselves creatively. It's the perfect opportunity for your child to unleash their creativity and build an impressive portfolio.

The places where you live, go to school and shop significantly affect your daily life. In this camp, students will explore their environments and analyze how fundamental human needs, desires, and behaviors shape architectural design. The focus will be on the methods architects use to develop their ideas while also looking at the structures, materials, and technologies in historical and modern architecture. Through perspective drawing, drafting, model making, and digital software programs, students will explore the world-renowned architecture of Chicago. In addition to visiting the Art Institute of Chicago, they will engage in on-site sketching at historic buildings designed by architects such as Louis Sullivan and Mies van der Rohe. Students will study contemporary masterpieces such as Frank Gehry's Jay Pritzker Pavilion and Renzo Piano's Modern Wing to enrich their studio work.

Ignite your child's artistic potential in a summer art camp that fosters skill development and creativity by exploring diverse materials in a stimulating environment. Students draw inspiration from the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, local architecture, public art, and current events as they develop skills across multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, and mixed media. Additionally, they enhance their critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Projects foster personal expression and collaborative skills while introducing students to contemporary and historical art. Each session has a unique focus, ensuring that students who enroll in multiple sessions will experience entirely new studio projects every time.

Ignite your child's artistic potential in a summer art camp that fosters skill development and creativity by exploring diverse materials in a stimulating environment. Students draw inspiration from the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, local architecture, public art, and current events as they develop skills across multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, and mixed media. Additionally, they enhance their critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Projects foster personal expression and collaborative skills while introducing students to contemporary and historical art. Each session has a unique focus, ensuring that students who enroll in multiple sessions will experience entirely new studio projects every time.

Ignite your child's artistic potential in a summer art camp that fosters skill development and creativity by exploring diverse materials in a stimulating environment. Students draw inspiration from the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, local architecture, public art, and current events as they develop skills across multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, and mixed media. Additionally, they enhance their critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Projects foster personal expression and collaborative skills while introducing students to contemporary and historical art. Each session has a unique focus, ensuring that students who enroll in multiple sessions will experience entirely new studio projects every time.

Ignite your child's artistic potential in a summer art camp that fosters skill development and creativity by exploring diverse materials in a stimulating environment. Students draw inspiration from the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, local architecture, public art, and current events as they develop skills across multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, and mixed media. Additionally, they enhance their critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Projects foster personal expression and collaborative skills while introducing students to contemporary and historical art. Each session has a unique focus, ensuring that students who enroll in multiple sessions will experience entirely new studio projects every time.

Bring artwork to life using traditional and digital media to create one-of-a-kind animations. In this exciting camp, students learn principles of animation while exploring various techniques, including stop-motion, frame-by-frame methods, digitally modified video, and computer-aided techniques. Students will use digital tools such as laptops, still cameras, video cameras, sound recorders, iPads, sketchbook work, and other traditional processes to express contemporary artistic hybrid methods.

Bring artwork to life using traditional and digital media to create one-of-a-kind animations. In this exciting camp, students learn principles of animation while exploring various techniques, including stop-motion, frame-by-frame methods, digitally modified video, and computer-aided techniques. Students will use digital tools such as laptops, still cameras, video cameras, sound recorders, iPads, sketchbook work, and other traditional processes to express contemporary artistic hybrid methods.

Bring artwork to life using traditional and digital media to create one-of-a-kind animations. In this exciting camp, students learn principles of animation while exploring various techniques, including stop-motion, frame-by-frame methods, digitally modified video, and computer-aided techniques. Students will use digital tools such as laptops, still cameras, video cameras, sound recorders, iPads, sketchbook work, and other traditional processes to express contemporary artistic hybrid methods.

This camp introduces young designers to the fashion world, helping them discover their unique style while learning the technical skills necessary to transform their designs from concept to reality. Activities guide students through developing original ideas, finding inspiration from their surroundings, and responding to the work of other artists and designers. Students will build fundamental skills in fashion research, drawing, draping, garment construction, and machine and hand sewing. They will also explore sculptural draping using paper to create exciting experimental looks and deconstruct garments to invent new forms. Each session features different projects, allowing students to enroll in multiple camps throughout the summer.

This camp introduces young designers to the fashion world, helping them discover their unique style while learning the technical skills necessary to transform their designs from concept to reality. Activities guide students through developing original ideas, finding inspiration from their surroundings, and responding to the work of other artists and designers. Students will build fundamental skills in fashion research, drawing, draping, garment construction, and machine and hand sewing. They will also explore sculptural draping using paper to create exciting experimental looks and deconstruct garments to invent new forms. Each session features different projects, allowing students to enroll in multiple camps throughout the summer.

This camp introduces young designers to the fashion world, helping them discover their unique style while learning the technical skills necessary to transform their designs from concept to reality. Activities guide students through developing original ideas, finding inspiration from their surroundings, and responding to the work of other artists and designers. Students will build fundamental skills in fashion research, drawing, draping, garment construction, and machine and hand sewing. They will also explore sculptural draping using paper to create exciting experimental looks and deconstruct garments to invent new forms. Each session features different projects, allowing students to enroll in multiple camps throughout the summer.

This advanced camp invites students aged 10-11 with prior drawing experience to explore various materials and techniques that will expand their artistic abilities. While continuing to develop their technical skills, students will focus on using drawing to organize their thoughts and feelings and express their ideas. Students will work with various materials, including pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, and mixed media. Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago will allow campers to observe and sketch from a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other objects to inspire their studio work. Students will explore endless possibilities in a supportive environment that fosters growth and artistic confidence¿whether experimenting with innovative processes or refining their unique style.

This advanced camp invites students aged 10-11 with prior drawing experience to explore various materials and techniques that will expand their artistic abilities. While continuing to develop their technical skills, students will focus on using drawing to organize their thoughts and feelings and express their ideas. Students will work with various materials, including pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, and mixed media. Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago will allow campers to observe and sketch from a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other objects to inspire their studio work. Students will explore endless possibilities in a supportive environment that fosters growth and artistic confidence¿whether experimenting with innovative processes or refining their unique style.

Video games are renowned for their unforgettable characters, captivating narratives, and stunning visuals. They offer an immersive experience that provides an exciting escape and engages players in unique and interactive ways. In this dynamic and challenging camp, students explore video game production by experimenting with coding and illustrating playable computer games. They even have the opportunity to share their creations with friends online! Students will use traditional and digital media to engage in activities such as sketching in their notebooks, storyboarding narratives, editing sound effects, and digital drawing. By exploring different platforms for game creation, students will unlock their creativity and develop one-of-a-kind video games.

This advanced camp invites students aged 12-13 with prior drawing experience to explore various materials and techniques that will expand their artistic abilities. While continuing to develop their technical skills, students will focus on using drawing to organize their thoughts and feelings and express their ideas. Students will work with various materials, including pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, and mixed media. Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago will allow campers to observe and sketch from a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other objects to inspire their studio work. Students will explore endless possibilities in a supportive environment that fosters growth and artistic confidence¿whether experimenting with innovative processes or refining their unique style.

Young designers will learn to enhance and embellish existing garments using exciting surface design techniques like embroidery, beading, and applique. They'll also experiment with non-traditional materials to create one-of-a-kind accessories that complement their style. Activities will guide students through developing original ideas, finding inspiration in their surroundings, and engaging with the works of other artists and designers.

Young designers will learn to enhance and embellish existing garments using exciting surface design techniques like embroidery, beading, and applique. They'll also experiment with non-traditional materials to create one-of-a-kind accessories that complement their style. Activities will guide students through developing original ideas, finding inspiration in their surroundings, and engaging with the works of other artists and designers.

This advanced camp invites students aged 12-13 with prior drawing experience to explore various materials and techniques that will expand their artistic abilities. While continuing to develop their technical skills, students will focus on using drawing to organize their thoughts and feelings and express their ideas. Students will work with various materials, including pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, and mixed media. Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago will allow campers to observe and sketch from a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other objects to inspire their studio work. Students will explore endless possibilities in a supportive environment that fosters growth and artistic confidence¿whether experimenting with innovative processes or refining their unique style.

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have created a vibrant new landscape for young artists eager to explore their creativity. This camp empowers students to elevate their video production skills by producing short videos through various contemporary techniques. Participants will explore video production principles and learn essential elements such as storyboarding, the filming process, basic special effects, and editing. Using iPads and video equipment from the SAIC media centers, students will gain hands-on experience to practice these skills at home using standard digital devices. Through this immersive experience, they will develop their artistic voice while fully embracing the digital age of storytelling.

This camp allows students aged 10-11 to focus on their drawing and painting skills in a highly creative and challenging environment. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore a range of traditional and experimental materials and techniques. They will learn various drawing methods, building their technical, spatial, and creative abilities while focusing on essential elements of 2D design and art. Students investigate contemporary subjects and themes using pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, gouache, water-based paint, and mixed media through skills such as line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Inspiration comes from visits to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum to observe and sketch various paintings, sculptures, and objects. This camp, designed for beginners and those looking to develop their drawing and painting skills further, can be repeated for ongoing skill enhancement and idea building.

This camp allows students aged 10-11 to focus on their drawing and painting skills in a highly creative and challenging environment. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore a range of traditional and experimental materials and techniques. They will learn various drawing methods, building their technical, spatial, and creative abilities while focusing on essential elements of 2D design and art. Students investigate contemporary subjects and themes using pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, gouache, water-based paint, and mixed media through skills such as line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Inspiration comes from visits to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum to observe and sketch various paintings, sculptures, and objects. This camp, designed for beginners and those looking to develop their drawing and painting skills further, can be repeated for ongoing skill enhancement and idea building.

This camp allows students aged 10-11 to focus on their drawing and painting skills in a highly creative and challenging environment. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore a range of traditional and experimental materials and techniques. They will learn various drawing methods, building their technical, spatial, and creative abilities while focusing on essential elements of 2D design and art. Students investigate contemporary subjects and themes using pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, gouache, water-based paint, and mixed media through skills such as line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Inspiration comes from visits to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum to observe and sketch various paintings, sculptures, and objects. This camp, designed for beginners and those looking to develop their drawing and painting skills further, can be repeated for ongoing skill enhancement and idea building.

This camp allows students aged 12-13 to focus on their drawing and painting skills in a highly creative and challenging environment. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore a range of traditional and experimental materials and techniques. They will learn various drawing methods, building their technical, spatial, and creative abilities while focusing on essential elements of 2D design and art. Students investigate contemporary subjects and themes using pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, gouache, water-based paint, and mixed media through skills such as line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Inspiration comes from visits to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum to observe and sketch various paintings, sculptures, and objects. This camp, designed for beginners and those looking to develop their drawing and painting skills further, can be repeated for ongoing skill enhancement and idea building.

This camp allows students aged 12-13 to focus on their drawing and painting skills in a highly creative and challenging environment. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore a range of traditional and experimental materials and techniques. They will learn various drawing methods, building their technical, spatial, and creative abilities while focusing on essential elements of 2D design and art. Students investigate contemporary subjects and themes using pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, gouache, water-based paint, and mixed media through skills such as line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Inspiration comes from visits to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum to observe and sketch various paintings, sculptures, and objects. This camp, designed for beginners and those looking to develop their drawing and painting skills further, can be repeated for ongoing skill enhancement and idea building.

This camp allows students aged 12-13 to focus on their drawing and painting skills in a highly creative and challenging environment. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore a range of traditional and experimental materials and techniques. They will learn various drawing methods, building their technical, spatial, and creative abilities while focusing on essential elements of 2D design and art. Students investigate contemporary subjects and themes using pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, gouache, water-based paint, and mixed media through skills such as line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Inspiration comes from visits to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum to observe and sketch various paintings, sculptures, and objects. This camp, designed for beginners and those looking to develop their drawing and painting skills further, can be repeated for ongoing skill enhancement and idea building.

In this camp, students explore traditional and contemporary painting techniques. Projects include painting from observation and the imagination and experimental approaches to mark-making. Students explore various materials, such as pastels, acrylic and watercolor paint, charcoal, graphite, gouache, and colored pencils, while developing skills in rendering, composition, use of shading, color blending, and layering processes. Regular visits to the Art Institute of Chicago to observe and sketch from paintings and sculptures inspire studio work. This camp is suitable for participants of all skill levels.

Students elevate their illustration skills in this camp by creating unique comics and graphic novels. Emphasis is placed on storytelling, introducing students to character development, plot structure, scripting, and storyboarding. The course teaches skills in drawing and illustration, focusing on techniques such as penciling, inking, coloring, and understanding space and perspective. Students will explore various traditional and non-traditional mediums, including colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, digitally edited drawings, and handmade zines. Inspiration also comes from artist presentations, trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and visits to downtown Chicago, where a vast array of public art sparks creativity. These experiences will provide opportunities for drawing practice and serve as an introduction to the fundamentals of comic narratives and stylistic expression.

Students elevate their illustration skills in this camp by creating unique comics and graphic novels. Emphasis is placed on storytelling, introducing students to character development, plot structure, scripting, and storyboarding. The course teaches skills in drawing and illustration, focusing on techniques such as penciling, inking, coloring, and understanding space and perspective. Students will explore various traditional and non-traditional mediums, including colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, digitally edited drawings, and handmade zines. Inspiration also comes from artist presentations, trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and visits to downtown Chicago, where a vast array of public art sparks creativity. These experiences will provide opportunities for drawing practice and serve as an introduction to the fundamentals of comic narratives and stylistic expression.

Students elevate their illustration skills in this camp by creating unique comics and graphic novels. Emphasis is placed on storytelling, introducing students to character development, plot structure, scripting, and storyboarding. The course teaches skills in drawing and illustration, focusing on techniques such as penciling, inking, coloring, and understanding space and perspective. Students will explore various traditional and non-traditional mediums, including colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, digitally edited drawings, and handmade zines. Inspiration also comes from artist presentations, trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and visits to downtown Chicago, where a vast array of public art sparks creativity. These experiences will provide opportunities for drawing practice and serve as an introduction to the fundamentals of comic narratives and stylistic expression.

This course is designed for students with little to no experience in oil painting and introduces the specific materials and processes of this medium. You'll get hands-on experience with essential skills through demonstrations on stretching canvases, setting up your paint palette, and applying various techniques. You'll also learn how to mix colors. These foundational skills will prepare you to create work for your portfolio. Throughout the course, you'll delve into color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective while painting from observation. Experiment and discover your unique artistic voice and style in a supportive and encouraging environment. Basic drawing and water-based painting experience is required.

Delve into the world of architecture, where creativity meets innovation. This course invites students to explore how architects transform concepts into captivating shapes, immersive spaces, and iconic buildings. Engage in a dynamic process that encourages experimentation with diverse forms and techniques, including foundational drawing, perspective, drafting, and advanced 3D modeling. During the course, you will tackle a variety of thought-provoking prompts and design challenges, utilizing materials such as chipboard, basswood, and foam core to bring your imaginative ideas to life in three-dimensional form. As a culmination of your journey, you will showcase your final projects, including compelling prints and drawings, tangible 3D models, or polished digital presentations. To enrich your understanding, you will also explore the influence of visionary artists, designers, and architects like Frank Gehry and Robert Irwin, examining how their work shapes digital and atmospheric experiences in design. While prior experience is not required, a familiarity with computers will enhance your creative process. Join us in this collaborative environment where art and architecture intersect, igniting your passion for design in exciting new directions.

In this course, students will explore their creativity and develop a unique voice through engaging exercises such as journaling, freewriting, writing inspired by music, and exploring memories and dreams. Participants will experience the exhilarating process of editing, revising, and workshopping their writing alongside their peers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. They will learn to provide constructive feedback on others' work and craft captivating short stories, monologues, poetry, and personal essays. Students will push the boundaries of original and individual expression throughout the course while preparing for college-level writing. With guidance from faculty and peer support, students will share their literary creations in class and complete assigned reading and writing exercises designed to clarify, expand, and challenge their written expressions.

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available, all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice.

This engaging course invites you to unleash your creativity as you explore innovative design methods and materials, focusing on illustration, styling, draping, and fabric selection rather than the construction of specific garments. You'll learn about the rich history of fashion and discover research techniques that will spark your imagination. Plus, you'll examine contemporary works and practices currently reshaping the fashion industry. Visits to SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, a treasure trove of fashion history and stunning collection of garments and accessories, and the Art Institute of Chicago's collection of art and textiles will inspire your designs. Throughout this course, you'll create unique textile and garment designs while exploring how clothing communicates who you are. You'll develop skills in fashion illustration, draping, and even patternmaking while gaining a deeper understanding of garment history and contemporary designers. Whether you're new or have some experience, this course will help you unlock your design potential and express yourself through the powerful medium of fashion.

This class is perfect for artists eager to explore the thrilling world of digital art. Start with traditional drawing techniques and then transition into the digital realm using software like Procreate. As you progress through the course, you'll have the chance to build a portfolio filled with digital creations, perfect for showcasing online or in print¿think posters and zines. Projects will cover everything from designing unique characters and creating merch, such as enamel pins, stickers, and tees, to crafting vibrant digital paintings and illustrations for children's books. Gain inspiration by guest presentations from contemporary illustrators influencing the art world with their boundary-pushing styles and innovative techniques.

This engaging course invites you to unleash your creativity as you explore innovative design methods and materials, focusing on illustration, styling, draping, and fabric selection rather than the construction of specific garments. You'll learn about the rich history of fashion and discover research techniques that will spark your imagination. Plus, you'll examine contemporary works and practices currently reshaping the fashion industry. Visits to SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, a treasure trove of fashion history and stunning collection of garments and accessories, and the Art Institute of Chicago's collection of art and textiles will inspire your designs. Throughout this course, you'll create unique textile and garment designs while exploring how clothing communicates who you are. You'll develop skills in fashion illustration, draping, and even patternmaking while gaining a deeper understanding of garment history and contemporary designers. Whether you're new or have some experience, this course will help you unlock your design potential and express yourself through the powerful medium of fashion.

This class is perfect for artists eager to explore the thrilling world of digital art. Start with traditional drawing techniques and then transition into the digital realm using software like Procreate. As you progress through the course, you'll have the chance to build a portfolio filled with digital creations, perfect for showcasing online or in print¿think posters and zines. Projects will cover everything from designing unique characters and creating merch, such as enamel pins, stickers, and tees, to crafting vibrant digital paintings and illustrations for children's books. Gain inspiration by guest presentations from contemporary illustrators influencing the art world with their boundary-pushing styles and innovative techniques.

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available, all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice.

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available, all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice.

In this exciting course, you'll have the chance to bring your fashion ideas to life, from inspiration to finished garments. You'll start crafting original pattern blocks, then explore drafting and draping techniques. Along the way, you'll document your journey with dynamic photography and sketches that capture your creative process. Inspiring field trips to places like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Fashion Resource Center at SAIC help you transform your flat patterns into stunning fabric creations. You'll be free to experiment with various materials, including paper, muslin, secondhand clothing, and fabric off the bolt. This hands-on approach will allow you to express your unique style and vision. By the end of the course, you will create pieces that showcase your aesthetic and equip you with essential skills in garment construction.

This course is a rigorous exploration of contemporary sculptural practices, emphasizing critical relationships between form, material, and content. Students use research, instructor feedback, and peer support to realize their unique visions in three dimensions. Discussions of materials, processes, and hands-on practice empower students to move from concept to completed work, generating a better understanding of how sculpture is situated within the context of culture and society at large. Projects allow for investigating traditional and contemporary materials and methods, including installation, carving, casting, fabrication, mold making, and construction. Demonstrations of SAIC's digital tools, field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and artist presentations supplement the studio experience. Artwork and/or performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.

NOTE: Previous experience in sculpture is helpful, but not required. SAIC will provide basic equipment. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

In this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience.

NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects.

In this exciting course, you'll have the chance to bring your fashion ideas to life, from inspiration to finished garments. You'll start crafting original pattern blocks, then explore drafting and draping techniques. Along the way, you'll document your journey with dynamic photography and sketches that capture your creative process. Inspiring field trips to places like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Fashion Resource Center at SAIC help you transform your flat patterns into stunning fabric creations. You'll be free to experiment with various materials, including paper, muslin, secondhand clothing, and fabric off the bolt. This hands-on approach will allow you to express your unique style and vision. By the end of the course, you will create pieces that showcase your aesthetic and equip you with essential skills in garment construction.

In this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience.

NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects.

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.

NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.

NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Drawing inspiration from live models and the exquisite garments housed in SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, create eye-catching fashion illustrations that showcase your unique style. You'll learn the essentials of illustration tailored for different fashion applications, whether for retail or editorial work. Explore body proportions, movements, and poses to help you bring your designs to life. Mastering perspective is critical; you'll discover how to apply just the right amount of exaggeration and stylization for captivating results. You'll also learn about the textures and drapes of various fabrics and how they relate to body form and movement. To inspire your work, you'll study the techniques of influential fashion illustrators throughout history and today. Plus, you'll get to experiment with various creative media like colored pencils, pastels, pens, markers, and water-based paints. While some drawing experience is helpful, what matters is your passion and imagination. Prepare for a dynamic learning environment where you can express yourself and elevate your fashion illustration skills.

In this course, students bring drawings and characters to life using digital imaging (compositing, layering, collaging), illustration, and motion graphics. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and After Effects. Projects integrating color, line, form, image, and text include digital drawings, manipulated still images, animation, and multimedia screen-based works. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience.

*NOTE* Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

3D animation is a versatile and fast-growing industry used in applications from video games to movies to virtual immersive environments. Students in this course learn how to build three-dimensional spaces, audio, interactivity, life forms, and/or objects using Maya software. Looking to 3D artists such as Alex McLeod, Jennifer Steinkamp, and the Zeitguised, students research how 3D animation can be used in traditional and non-traditional ways. The course begins with introductory exercises to explore the possibilities in 3D modeling and animation, ultimately focusing on the skills necessary to complete individually-driven final project(s).

NOTE: Previous experience with computers and digital imaging software such as Adobe Photoshop is preferred. Experience with animation is helpful but not required. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a laptop with software for after-studio hours and homework.

In this fiber-focused course, students will turn secondhand materials into bold, original artworks. Beginning with a trip to a local thrift store, students will collect discarded materials and deconstruct them using scissors, seam rippers, rotary cutters, and their hands¿creating a personal palette of raw materials. These elements become the foundation for creative projects using techniques such as soft sculpture, hand and machine stitching, dyeing, wrapping, appliqué, tapestry weaving, and collage. Photography and video will be used to document any wearable, performative, or temporary work. Inspired by artists like Nick Cave, Tara Donovan, Isa Genzken, and Samantha Bittman, students will explore reuse, transformation, and storytelling through materials. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, local galleries, artist studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience.

NOTE: Students do not need prior experience for this course, but basic hand sewing skills are helpful. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research and after-studio hours projects.

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.

NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.

NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Drawing inspiration from live models and the exquisite garments housed in SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, create eye-catching fashion illustrations that showcase your unique style. You'll learn the essentials of illustration tailored for different fashion applications, whether for retail or editorial work. Explore body proportions, movements, and poses to help you bring your designs to life. Mastering perspective is critical; you'll discover how to apply just the right amount of exaggeration and stylization for captivating results. You'll also learn about the textures and drapes of various fabrics and how they relate to body form and movement. To inspire your work, you'll study the techniques of influential fashion illustrators throughout history and today. Plus, you'll get to experiment with various creative media like colored pencils, pastels, pens, markers, and water-based paints. While some drawing experience is helpful, what matters is your passion and imagination. Prepare for a dynamic learning environment where you can express yourself and elevate your fashion illustration skills.

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.

NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.

NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Turn walls into canvases and streets into galleries in this high-impact studio course. You will explore the powerful world of public art, from graffiti and murals to large-scale visual storytelling and community building. Experiment with techniques like spray paint, stenciling, wheat pasting, and bold graphic drawing, while developing work that reflects your voice and point of view. Students will create individual works through live demonstrations, virtual artist talks, critiques, and portfolio-focused projects, and contribute to collaborative public concepts. This is a drawing and painting course at its core, but students are encouraged to push boundaries and combine media that suit their vision. Whether you're interested in murals, design, comics, or street culture, this course offers a dynamic path to producing bold, portfolio-worthy work that stands out.

NOTE: Some basic drawing experience is preferred, but not required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Turn walls into canvases and streets into galleries in this high-impact studio course. You will explore the powerful world of public art, from graffiti and murals to large-scale visual storytelling and community building. Experiment with techniques like spray paint, stenciling, wheat pasting, and bold graphic drawing, while developing work that reflects your voice and point of view. Students will create individual works through live demonstrations, virtual artist talks, critiques, and portfolio-focused projects, and contribute to collaborative public concepts. This is a drawing and painting course at its core, but students are encouraged to push boundaries and combine media that suit their vision. Whether you're interested in murals, design, comics, or street culture, this course offers a dynamic path to producing bold, portfolio-worthy work that stands out.

NOTE: Some basic drawing experience is preferred, but not required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Learn how to give form and shape to flat materials. Experiment with materials including fabric, cardboard, paper, wire, plaster, and plastic, while referencing the work of artists including Amanda Browder, Taylor Hokanson, Anila Quayyum Agha, Claes Oldenburg, and Martin Puryear. Projects include representational and abstract approaches, challenging students to think critically about form, structure, and the viewer¿s experience. Field trips, artist talks, and critiques deepen understanding of how scale, dimension, and balance give sculpture its voice. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago allow students to study iconic works up close and connect classroom learning to world-renowned collections. Performances and artwork that are temporary or that cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.

This course explores contemporary thinking and making within architecture and its impact on public life. Students will develop skills in hand drawing, digital modeling, and physical modeling in 3D. Through collaborative work and one-on-one mentorship, students learn how architects develop design ideas, conduct research, and present proposals. Conceptual thinking is emphasized as students work to envision new approaches to the built environment through multiple design approaches. An active studio practice will feature drawing and hand-built models of proposed spaces, buildings, sculptures, and/or future environments. In addition, students examine the works of artists, architects, and writers for inspiration. Students can expect to gain knowledge of the contemporary architectural landscape and the appreciation of the impact other disciplines have on architecture and design. Students will create a portfolio-quality collection of sketches, technical drawings, physical models, and design presentation boards.

This course is for students interested in exploring contemporary fashion design methods and materials rather than constructing specific garments. Students develop skills in illustrating the fashion figure, styling, draping, and fabric selection, are introduced to the history of fashion design and new research and documentation methods, and are exposed to contemporary designers and design practices. Students may explore resources such as SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, which houses a library on fashion and the history of costume, several individual garments and accessories of significant historical importance, and a rich collection of visual material not accessible to the general public, as well as the AIC's collection of art and textiles to develop an informed, thoughtful, and creative approach to design. The class will draw on these resources to develop unique textile and garment designs and to learn about clothing as a language, how garments communicate, and what they signify.

NOTE: Basic drawing skills and figure drawing/illustration experience are beneficial. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research and after-studio hours projects.

This course provides students with the opportunity to blend traditional techniques with cutting-edge digital methods, as they experiment with a range of media, including drawing, sculpture, image transfer, collage, laser cutting, and 3D printing. Begin with exciting mini-projects and hands-on demonstrations to spark your imagination and get ideas flowing, then refine concepts through engaging discussions before completing a final project that reflects your unique style and interests. Additionally, students will discover the latest trends in art, featuring inspiring work from contemporary artists who are pushing boundaries today.

This course explores contemporary thinking and making within architecture and its impact on public life. Students will develop skills in hand drawing, digital modeling, and physical modeling in 3D. Through collaborative work and one-on-one mentorship, students learn how architects develop design ideas, conduct research, and present proposals. Conceptual thinking is emphasized as students work to envision new approaches to the built environment through multiple design approaches. An active studio practice will feature drawing and hand-built models of proposed spaces, buildings, sculptures, and/or future environments. In addition, students examine the works of artists, architects, and writers for inspiration. Students can expect to gain knowledge of the contemporary architectural landscape and the appreciation of the impact other disciplines have on architecture and design. Students will create a portfolio-quality collection of sketches, technical drawings, physical models, and design presentation boards.

Designed for students with little or no experience in oil painting, this course introduces the specific materials and processes of the medium. Demonstrations on stretching a canvas, laying out a palette, various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide the fundamentals of oil painting and a strong foundation for creating portfolio-quality work. In addition, color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective are explored through observational painting, as well as exercises that encourage students to confidently experiment and find their own direction and style.

NOTE: Basic drawing and water-based painting experience required. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research and after-studio hours projects.

Designed for students with little or no experience in oil painting, this course introduces the specific materials and processes of the medium. Demonstrations on stretching a canvas, laying out a palette, various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide the fundamentals of oil painting and a strong foundation for creating portfolio-quality work. In addition, color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective are explored through observational painting, as well as exercises that encourage students to confidently experiment and find their own direction and style.

NOTE: Basic drawing and water-based painting experience required. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research and after-studio hours projects.

This course explores contemporary thinking and making within architecture and its impact on public life. Students will develop skills in hand drawing, digital modeling, and physical modeling in 3D. Through collaborative work and one-on-one mentorship, students learn how architects develop design ideas, conduct research, and present proposals. Conceptual thinking is emphasized as students work to envision new approaches to the built environment through multiple design approaches. An active studio practice will feature drawing and hand-built models of proposed spaces, buildings, sculptures, and/or future environments. In addition, students examine the works of artists, architects, and writers for inspiration. Students can expect to gain knowledge of the contemporary architectural landscape and the appreciation of the impact other disciplines have on architecture and design. Students will create a portfolio-quality collection of sketches, technical drawings, physical models, and design presentation boards.

Designed for students with little or no experience in oil painting, this course introduces the specific materials and processes of the medium. Demonstrations on stretching a canvas, laying out a palette, various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide the fundamentals of oil painting and a strong foundation for creating portfolio-quality work. In addition, color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective are explored through observational painting, as well as exercises that encourage students to confidently experiment and find their own direction and style.

NOTE: Basic drawing and water-based painting experience required. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research and after-studio hours projects.

This course is for students who want to learn how to design, construct, and sew their own garments, including pattern making. Students begin by developing original pattern blocks, exploring pattern drafting and draping, and then document their three-dimensional exploration with photography and/or drawing. Combining inspirational visits to SAIC's Fashion Resource Center and the Art Institute of Chicago with research and sketchbook assignments, students develop their own concepts and designs from flat and paper patterns to final fabric construction. Students utilize various materials to build conceptual and construction skills, including paper, muslin, second-hand clothing, and fabric off the bolt. The work produced in this class allows students to reflect and expand on their personal style while learning the skills to construct a garment from start to finish.

NOTE: Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research and after-studio hours projects.