SUPPLIES PROVIDED

Children will learn to accurately draw simple and complex geometric shapes, applying proper perspective, values, and composition. Through instructor demonstrations, structured exercises, diagrams, and group classwork, students will gain a strong understanding of essential drawing principles, reinforced by direct observation and life drawing.

Too often, geometric shapes are dismissed as “the basics” and are overlooked. However, mastering these forms is fundamental to an artist’s ability to construct and visualize space. The methods taught in this course mirror those practiced daily by students in our adult program, ensuring a rigorous and high-impact learning experience at a younger age level.

This summer, give your child an exceptional foundation in classical drawing techniques and skills that will be the building blocks for artistic success.

Dates: July 7 - 9, 2025

Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tuition: $350

SUPPLIES INCLUDED - students take home their set of paint at the end

For centuries, cabinets of curiosities have served as collections of rare and extraordinary objects, bridging the worlds of art, science, and history. This summer, students will paint directly from Princeton Academy of Art’s collection of natural specimens and historical artifacts, refining their ability to observe, analyze, and render complex forms with precision.

Working from arranged still lifes, students will develop their skills in composition, color mixing, and layering techniques while studying objects such as skulls, insects, and other preserved specimens. Through guided instruction, they will explore the material properties of gouache, a historical painting medium known for its rich opacity and velvety matte finish.

Used by artists for centuries, gouache was a favored medium in scientific illustration, manuscript illumination, and 19th-century fine art. Its ability to combine delicate transparency with strong, opaque layers makes it an ideal introduction to painting for young artists.

This course is designed to provide students with the same level of rigorous instruction offered in our adult programs, emphasizing the observational skills and technical proficiency required to create compelling, historically grounded works of art.

Dates: July 14 - 18, 2025

Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tuition: $550

Join Princeton Academy of Art for a week of painting & drawing the iconic sites of Princeton!

Dates: August 4 - 8, 2025

Times: 9:00AM - 12:00PM (3 hours)

Day 1 – Indoors at 10 Nassau St Studio

Day 2 – Prospect Garden

Day 3 – Nassau Hall

Day 4 – Freedom Fountain

Day 5 – Morven Museum & Garden 

All supplies included! We do however ask that students are prepared to spend a couple of hours outdoors. 

*Locations subject to change.

**If there is inclement weather, students will move indoors at our 10 Nassau St. location.

Join us for an engaging and educational 3-day session where your child will work from a live model to create a beautiful, structured portrait!

This experience offers children the opportunity to explore the world of portraiture under the guidance and instruction of an academy-trained artist.

Your child will learn the proportions of the face through step-by-step diagrams and afterward will draw the portrait from life.

Our instructor will teach essential techniques and skills for capturing the likeness and unique features of their subjects. Children will develop observational skills, learn about proportion, and begin to apply concrete shading techniques.

This hands-on practice will enhance their artistic abilities, foster confidence in future fine art projects that apply the same methods, and facilitate a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of portraiture. All materials will be provided!

AUGUST 11, 12, 13

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

TUITION: $400

LOCATION: 10 Nassau St, Suite 23

Plaster casting has played a significant role throughout history, dating back to antiquity. It has been an essential medium for artistic education, architectural adornment, scientific examination, and the preservation of historical artifacts. 

During this workshop, students will explore historic and contemporary methods and materials and create their own personal masterpieces! After exploring the casting process, students will also have the opportunity to paint their sculptures. 

All materials will be provided!

SESSION 1: AUGUST 14 & 15

SESSION 2: AUGUST 21 & 22

9:00AM - 12:00PM

TUITION: $395

LOCATION: 10 Nassau St, Suite 23

Join us this summer for a three day portrait painting workshop with live models!

Students will learn to accurately portray the sitter with a balanced composition. They will learn to see value, color, and composition through concrete methods and techniques.

Materials: We ask that each student brings one set of Marie's Gouache paint (18 colors). This can be purchased on Amazon or at Jerry's Artarama, located on US Rt 1. All other materials will be provided.

AUGUST 18, 19, 20

9:00AM - 12:00PM

TUITION: $395

LOCATION: 10 Nassau St, Suite 23

Join us for a week-long camp where students will build their skills in drawing and painting, with a specific focus on animal subjects. Students will work from photo references, taxidermy specimens, and even live subjects!

Materials: Please bring one set of Marie's gouache paint (18 colors) which can be purchased on Amazon or at Jerry's Artarama on US Rt 1.

DATES: AUGUST 25 - 29

TIMES: 9:00AM - 12:00PM

TUITION: $650

LOCATION: 10 Nassau St, Suite 23

Pre-Academy Program (PRECAD)

Ages 7–14

September 14, 2025 - June 7, 2026

The Pre-Academy Program (PRECAD) offers students aged 7 to 14 a structured introduction to classical drawing and painting. Rooted in traditional academic methods, the curriculum emphasizes technical proficiency through carefully sequenced instruction and hands-on practice.

Students engage in projects that build essential skills in proportion, structure, value, and composition—forming the foundation for lifelong visual literacy. This early training also supports the development of graphomotor coordination and observational acuity.

Beyond technical skill-building, the program fosters creative exploration and encourages individual expression within a framework of historical context. Students are introduced to a wide range of artistic traditions through illustrated lectures and guided discussions, expanding their awareness of global art history.

The PRECAD curriculum is designed not only to produce confident young artists, but to instill an enduring appreciation for the discipline, creativity, and cultural depth of the visual arts. 

This year’s program will be richer than ever before, featuring new special-topic lectures and expanded opportunities for off-site visits to museums and cultural institutions, further enriching students’ understanding, and life long appreciation of the arts.