Looking to unleash your creativity, learn a new skill, or simply unwind after a long day? Taking an adult art class in Denver is the perfect way to explore your artistic side while connecting with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your techniques, the city offers a vibrant array of classes—from painting and pottery to printmaking and glassblowing. With Denver’s thriving arts scene and welcoming community, there’s never been a better time to pick up a paintbrush, sculpt some clay, or experiment with new mediums.
- Denver Art Museum
- From their website: Connect with artists, learn a new skill, or expand your own creative practice in these 1-day, 4-week, and 6-week classes. Each class, led by a practicing artist, is taught in a studio art environment in the Creative Hub, located on level 1 of the Martin Building.
- Personal review: I would highly recommend these classes to anyone, I have never been disappointed with the education, prep by the educators, or the variety of offerings. Having taken classes here for years, I can say this place is top-notch.
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- From their website: Online and onsite art course offerings explore a variety of media to pique your interests. Wide variety of online art & botanical illustration courses taught by world-class artists. Art & Sculpture Exhibits. Free Parking. ADA Accessible. Services: Special Events, Plant Exhibits.
- Personal review: These Classes are definitely leaning into art as it relates to horticulture but there is a lot to learn as a basis for all art. There are some seriously skilled educators AND students at the gardens, many classes build on intro classes so there are opportunities for advancement. These classes can be more fast-faced, rigid, and intimidating.
- Colorado Photographic Arts (CPAC)
- From their website: Whether you’re new to photography or an established professional, CPAC’s photography classes and workshops will help you enhance your skills and develop your career. We offer courses year-round to suit your schedule, from one-day intensive workshops to four-week, immersive courses taught by experienced instructors in the fine art, commercial, and academic markets. Most courses are held in CPAC’s on-site classroom, conveniently located in downtown Denver. Others take place at our partner facility, Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design – and at off-site locations such as artist studios or Colorado’s famous outdoors. In the summer, we offer programming for teens between the ages of 11 – 17.
- Personal review: No matter how long I have been a photographer, I want to take every class CPAC offers. I learn something each time.
- Artist Student League of Denver (ASLD)
- From their website: ASLD offers a variety of programs for adults (18+) and youth (6–17) who are interested in enriching their creativity and technical skills as artists. We offer a variety of courses designed to challenge students of all levels.
- Personal review: The teachers here seem to offer more depth in the classes and come at it with a slightly different goal than other places. I felt like I was being taught real-life art stills, things to use to sell art pieces or communicate with art. The staff are experts.
- Abstract
- From their website: We started as INDYINK in 2002 as a screenprinting company that printed a few of our designs on the side, but when the opportunity for a retail storefront became available on Broadway we jumped on it. With more retail space we needed more designs and reached out to the local artists to help us fill the shelves with unique designs and limited runs. Are you ready to turn your artistic vision into tangible masterpieces? Abstract Labs is thrilled to announce our upcoming Screen Printing and Vinyl Heatpress Classes!
- Personal review: This place has grown and you can see why. It keeps getting better and offering more quality as it goes. Next time they offer them, their classes are on our list.
- Art Garage
- From their website: The Art Garage’s mission is to offer visual arts-based programs that inspire, empower, and promote creative self-expression by people of all ages and backgrounds. On-site and off-site studio workshops and exhibitions engage the greater Denver community and outreach is provided to those who are underserved and marginalized to ensure the artistic process is fully accessible and inclusive.
- Personal review: We have happily taken our kids to classes here for years but have yet to take an adult class.
- Denver Jewelry Studio
- From their website: All workshops are hands-on and in-person. Whether you’re new to jewelry making and want to tap into your creativity, or you are looking to advance your craft as part of your business, come learn the skills with other passionate creatives.
- Personal review: The location is in Littleton which is definitely not Denver but, still worth a mention.
- Art Gym Denver
- From their website: Instead of committing to a lease or renting a private studio, artists can join Art Gym’s shared workspace for a monthly membership fee and can reserve workspace and equipment to ensure it is available to them. Our shared workspace keeps costs low and puts artists in a creative environment where others are making art in a variety of disciplines including 2D Arts, Metalsmithing and Lapidary, Mixed Media, Performance Arts, and Printmaking. Art Gym also offers a variety of programming to members and non-members throughout the year focusing on building a vibrant arts community. Offerings include art clubs, art critiques, artist talks, classes and workshops, figure drawing, gallery exhibits, and residencies.
- Personal review: This made the list because they have a few huge things going for it, one of which is the tasty cafe inside, adjacent to a gallery that showcases member work. They also have adult art classes on topics you don’t see elsewhere.
Best Places to take an Art class where you also get to drink?
The top mention has to be the Upstairs Circus in Lodo, “Where DIY meets Bar”. We have been here with different friend groups of all genders and drinking interests and always had a great time. In addition to having a full bar, the studio space is well designed and staff are well educated on what they offer. It is not going to be your most affordable night out but it should be memorable and unique.
Ink & Drink, Sipping N Painting -Highlands, Canvas and Cocktails
Conclusion
No matter your skill level, taking an art class in Denver is a fun and fulfilling way to tap into your creativity and meet fellow art enthusiasts. With so many options available, you can find a class that fits your interests, schedule, and goals. Whether you’re looking for a casual paint-and-sip night or an intensive workshop, the Mile High City has something for everyone.
FAQs:
Q: Do I need prior experience to take an adult art class?
A: Not at all! Many classes are designed for beginners and provide step-by-step guidance
Q: What types of art classes are available in Denver?
A: You’ll find a variety of options, including painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture, photography, glassblowing, and more.
Q: How much do art classes typically cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the type of class and materials required, but may range from $25 for a single session to several hundred dollars for multi-week courses.
Q: Where can I find adult art classes in Denver?
A: Right here! Other than this list, look for local art studios, community centers, and colleges. You can also check out museums and galleries for workshops led by professional artists.