Learning art has been made easy with the availability of online courses for all levels.
With a simple internet connection, learning painting, digital art, drawing, or even sculpture can be done.
This is an all-encompassing guide to help advance your art skills with the right course.
What are the Benefits of Enrolling in an Online Art Course?
For all artists, online art courses are a revolution.
The amount of flexibility such a course offers is invaluable.
Complete Learning Control
An online course removes the hassle of having to stick to an art school’s schedule.
There is no need to travel, so studying is possible from anywhere.
Take lessons at home, during breaks, or even at night.
It is ideal for those in rural areas or for anyone with a tight schedule.
Value for Money
It is a known fact that traditional art schools are expensive, but one really big advantage of online courses is that some can be taken up for free.
Without sacrificing the quality of education, everyone can access professional art material.
Different Learning Styles for Everyone
Educational courses make it easy for everyone: The way you learn, determines how you will receive these lessons.
Video Tutorials – Learn how to do specific tasks and repeat them as many times as you may need to understand the content.
Interactive Assignments – Engage in projects that push your boundaries and help you build confidence.
Mentorship – Receive expert advice from a professional working as an artist.
Factors to Consider When Choosing An Art Online Course
To pick an art course online can be challenging, but not to fear-I’ve got you covered!
Here are some important pointers to ensure that you meet your objectives.
1. What Is Your Current Skill Level?
For novices, identify courses that cover the fundamentals such as drawing, color theories and basic painting techniques.
Next, for intermediate level, refined courses with additional styles like water color or digital art should be of help.
For advanced artists, specialized courses that help with portfolios collection or offer mastery techniques are more beneficial.
2. Live Versus Self-Paced Learning
Live courses are great for those who like interaction and questions in real time as well as structure to their schedules.
Pre-recorded classes are more flexible in the sense that you can learn at your own pace. This caters to a more varied audience.
3. Who Is Your Teacher?
An effective teacher is one that will understand you and this improves your understanding of the content.
Look for someone with experience that can guide you and offer valuable feedback that boosts your creativity.
Verify their qualifications, experience, and the feedback they have received from learners.
4. Community and Support
Learning is more fun with a good community!
Look for:
a. Discussion forums to share your work and get feedback.
b. Social media groups for inspiration and updates.
c. Live sessions for direct interaction with the instructor.
5. Certification and Career Growth
Need a certificate after training?
Some courses offer one, which can help in building your portfolio or boosting your career.
Also, check if the course teaches how to market your art, sell online, or exhibit professionally.
Best Online Art Courses for Beginners
For those starting out on your artistic journey, this is your time to shine.
Though, with so many online courses out there, it can feel overwhelming.
Let that not worry you because I’ll walk with you through it all.
Here are some of the best beginner-friendly courses to help you build your skills and confidence.
1. Proko – Master Figure Drawing & Anatomy
If you want to learn how to draw people, Proko is a fantastic choice for you.
Stan Prokopenko’s lessons break down complex anatomy into simple, easy-to-follow steps.
He offers free tutorials on YouTube, but if you want a deep dive, his paid courses cover everything from basic drawing to advanced figure drawing and portraits.
2. Udemy – Affordable & Beginner-Friendly
If Proko is not for you or maybe you’re looking for an affordable way to learn, Udemy is your next choice.
It has great beginner courses like The Ultimate Drawing Course: Beginner to Advanced, which covers shading, perspective, and sketching from real life.
Plus, you pay once and own the course forever, making it budget-friendly.
3. Skillshare – Hands-On Learning for Beginners
Want to experiment with different styles?
Skillshare offers thousands of art classes, from ink drawing to watercolor painting.
The best part? Courses come with fun projects, so you can practice as you go!
Their subscription model gives you unlimited access to a huge variety of courses.
4. Domestika – Learn from Professional Artists
For structured lessons taught by real pros, Domestika is a great pick.
Their courses are beautifully designed and include step-by-step projects, so you can follow along easily.
Whether you’re into digital art, traditional painting, or design, they have something for you.
Best Online Art Courses for Intermediate Artists
As you grow as an artist, you might feel ready to level up your skills and get deeper into specific techniques.
Whether you’re into traditional painting, digital art, or concept design, these online courses can help you refine your craft.
1. New Masters Academy – Master Both Traditional & Digital Art
If you want comprehensive training across different art styles, New Masters Academy is a fantastic choice.
With 2,000+ hours of lessons, live classes, and a huge reference library, this platform covers everything from anatomy and portraits to landscapes and theory.
You can also get personal coaching for tailored feedback.
2. CGMA – Perfect for Digital Artists & Concept Designers
For those into digital art, concept design, or VFX, CGMA (Computer Graphics Master Academy) is a great option.
The courses are taught by industry pros and focus on real-world techniques used in animation, game design, and film.
For either character design, environment art, or 3D modeling, CGMA offers specialized training to help you break into the industry.
3. Schoolism – Learn from Industry Legends
Schoolism offers top-tier training in both traditional and digital art, taught by some of the best artists in the industry.
The courses focus on practical skills and portfolio development, making them ideal if you’re looking to refine your techniques or go pro.
More Great Options
Vilppu Academy – Expensive but great for mastering drawing with weekly feedback.
Watts Atelier – Offers a structured approach to painting & drawing, with a mix of video lessons and critiques.
No matter your focus, these platforms can help you grow, improve, and take your art to the next level!
Best Online Art Courses for Advanced Artists
Most of the advanced artists are looking to sharpen their skills, explore new techniques, or break into the professional world.
Whichever the case, online courses can be a game-changer.
Here are some of the best options designed just for advanced artists:
1. Gnomon Workshop – Industry-Level Training
Want to learn from the pros?
Gnomon Workshop offers top-notch courses taught by industry professionals.
You could be into visual effects, animation, or concept art, their training will help you refine your skills and build a portfolio that stands out.
If you’re aiming for a career in film, video games, or digital art, this is a great place to level up.
2. FZD School of Design – Master Concept Art & Design Thinking
Founded by legendary concept artist Feng Zhu, FZD School of Design specializes in concept art and design thinking.
Their online program is packed with lessons on drawing fundamentals, composition, and storytelling.
It’s perfect for artists who want to work in movies, gaming, or even automotive design.
If you’re serious about concept art, this is a must.
3. ArtStation Learning – Learn from Industry Experts
ArtStation Learning gives you access to courses from some of the best artists in the industry.
From character design to environment art, their platform helps advanced artists stay ahead of the curve.
The best part?
It’s designed with working professionals in mind, so you get practical, real-world knowledge that keeps your skills sharp and competitive.
Which One is Right for You?
Every platform has something different to offer.
Gnomon is your go to if you want industry level training.
On the other hand, if you want to perfect your skills in concept art, then FZD is your choice.
Need variety and flexibility? Then ArtStation Learning has you covered.
No matter the choice you make, always remember to embrace and invest in personal development.
Your best work is yet to be done!
Conclusion
Art online courses have reshaped the methods through which the artists learn and sharpen their skills by offering accessible and affordable training lessons for all skill levels.
Online courses tailored to suit each level have a much more effective exposure.
With the integration of technology through video lessons, interactive tasks, and mentorship, progress can easily be made at one’s own pace.
With everything, it is imperative to choose the right course with aligned goals for the optimal growth.
Explore the different platforms, make the choice, and do not shy away from practicing your creativity and artistry.