The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey’s Studio School, located in Summit, NJ, offers classes and workshops for artists of all ages and skill levels. Taught by experienced teaching artists, our programs span painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and more—providing a supportive environment for learning, exploration, and creative growth.

SPRING SEMESTER 2026

Teen Painting & Drawing Classes

8450 Anime/Manga & Comic Drawing (ages 11-16)
Instructor: Doug Baron
Mondays, 6–8 PM
Create characters! Explore comic book and Japanese/Chinese–style drawing, from dynamic perspectives to classic anime/manga facial features.
10 session(s): 3/30–6/8 (no class on 5/25)
Tuition: member $357, non-member $387
Materials fee: $50

8475 NEW! Discovering Drawing Techniques & More! (ages 13-17)
Instructor: Madeleine Johnson
Tuesdays, 4–6 PM
Unlock your creativity in this fun and engaging drawing course for teens! Designed for all skill levels, this course will explore the fundamentals of drawing through hands-on projects, playful experimentation, and guided technique-building. Students will learn to draw from observation and imagination while trying out a variety of drawing materials, from pencil and ink to charcoal and pastels. Each week will introduce a new drawing technique, encouraging students to develop their drawing skills and to find their own artistic voice in a supportive studio environment! The materials fee covers the cost of supplies provided by the Art Center and one session with a live model.
10 session(s): 3/31–6/2
Tuition: member $357, non-member $387
Materials fee: $50

8478 Cartooning & Character Design (ages 13-18)
Instructor: Doug Baron
Tuesdays, 6–8 PM
Join artist Doug Baron, creator of Sugar Ray Finhead, to learn the ins and outs of cartoon drawing, character design, inking techniques, and coloring with watercolor. Students will work on simple and effective techniques for creating their own character concepts. Master a unique style of creating cartoon, anime, and comic book art!
10 session(s): 3/31–6/2
Tuition: member $357, non-member $387
Materials fee: $50

8531 Oil Painting for Teens (ages 13-17)
Instructor: Andrea Gianchiglia
Thursdays, 4–6 PM
Unleash your creativity with oil paint! Students will learn how to use the traditional favorite medium of the masters while diving into color theory, brush handling, layering, wet–on–wet, grisaille, dry brush, and more with a variety of subject matters. Explore vibrant techniques in a fun, supportive environment.
8 session(s): 4/2–6/4 (no class on 5/21, 5/28)
Tuition: member $280, non-member $310
Materials fee: $42