During the frigid days of winter, kids crave two things: a fun activity and a snow day. While the latter is unfortunately down to luck, the following list may just hold the key to victory when it comes to satisfying those bursts of energy that can’t be tamed by playing outside of this time of year. Whether you’re the guardian of a creative child or a homeschooling parent looking to enrich your child’s curriculum, these art studios in Northern Virginia have something for everyone. Classes cover everything from basic watercolor to ceramics to 3D sculpture, with offerings for kids of all ages.
Studio on Monroe Street
With an after-school art program, morning sessions for homeschoolers, and weekend classes, Monroe Street Studio’s array of options can accommodate any family’s busy schedule. Children as young as five can work with materials such as oils, watercolors and charcoal, with special classes focusing on clay and sewing available for those with individual interests. There are opportunities for more advanced artists to explore their talents and build their portfolios through intermediate and advanced workshops. 761 Monroe St., Herndon; $144-$315
USA Art Center
If you live with budding young artists, consider scheduling trial classes at the US Arts Center. From there, they will be placed in an appropriately paced learning environment where their potential can shine. Choose from summer programs, weekly courses or online instruction to help your children get the most out of their experience. Students can explore mediums that include life model drawing, 3D art, and multimedia workshops that teach through woodworking and delicate paper cutting. Portfolio preparation is also offered for high school students who intend to apply to college art programs. 14101 Sullyfield Cir., Ste. 100A, Chantilly; 2929 Eskridge Rd., Unit F, Fairfax; tuition fees vary
The Painted Tiger Art Studio.
Two youth art workshops for different age groups are available until February 12. The class for second and third graders explores different drawing techniques in a workshop format where they learn to give positive, constructive feedback to their peers. As fourth and fifth graders delve into Van Goff’s stylistic quirks and learn how to use his techniques, they create their own artwork. Both classes still have spaces available and are open to sign up. 108 South St. SE, Ste. 108, Leesburg; $90 prorated
J Art Studio
Kindergarten parents and prospective students can take advantage of this studio’s offerings. Younger children are placed in classes to learn beginner art techniques that also help build fine motor skills. As they age, these skills are built upon in intermediate and advanced classes that help young artists develop their own creative styles. Portfolio preparation for college applications and summer programs are available for children of all ages. 14801 Murdock St., Ste. 105, Chantilly; $120 per month excluding shipping fees
“Art in me” studio.
Here, children aged five to 15 can learn through artistic mediums such as acrylic painting, watercolour, charcoal drawing and graphic design. Each class separates students by age and ability level. Each focuses on teaching basic fine art techniques. Children are also encouraged to embrace and develop creative skills and styles. The current semester continues until February 21. 43362 Wayfarer Sq., Chantilly; Prorated $81 plus $15 shipping fee
Kidcreate Studio
Kidcreate offers weekly art classes for children as young as 18 months. Each class has a focal point that shapes the art each child creates. Students can create glow-in-the-dark art, sculpt 3D animals out of clay, paint pictures inspired by those in their favorite books, or make papier mache dishes. Your child can try a class for free. If you don’t want a weekly commitment, there are one-time workshops, summer camps, homeschool classes, and private sessions. 4277 Generation Dr., Ste. 180, Ashburn; 5616 Ox Rd., Suite A, Fairfax Station; 724 Jefferson St., Alexandria; Fees vary
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