Visit VMFA’s Art Education Center for innovative art projects that foster creativity, critical thinking, and FUN! Students explore the museum’s world-renowned collection of fine art, experiment with studio materials, and learn from expert instructors who accommodate all levels of skill and talent. Each studio program is tailored to a specific age group and correlates with the SOLs for Virginia Public Schools. For children ages 5 – 12.
Youth and Family Studio Programs at VMFA are generously supported by R.E.B. Foundation.
View Program Guidelines
Kids Studio classes run September-May.
View Summer Camps Here
Youth Studio Programs
Art Adventures- ages 5–8
Ages 5–8
Thursdays
4:30 – 6 pm
Art Education Center, Studio 2
$30 (VMFA members $25), per class
Enrollment Limit: 12
Let your imagination soar in the studio as you make original works of art inspired by objects in the museum. Sign up for one or more of these fun and creative workshops.
[CA27] Functional Arts
Thu, May 1, 4:30–6 pm | Art Education Center, Studio 2
DAN KACZKA
Ages 5–8 | Find out how art can be both fascinating and functional! Construct usable designs
inspired by Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles from VMFA’s collections, turning everyday items into original works of art.
$30 (VMFA members $25)
[CA28] Appreciation Station
Thu, May 8, 4:30–6 pm | Art Education Center, Studio 2
DAN KACZKA
Ages 5–8 | Craft heartfelt gifts for the special people in your life! Explore mixed-media techniques to create keepsakes that show appreciation for caretakers, family members, and loved ones, celebrating those who make a difference every day.
$30 (VMFA members $25)
Foundations in Art- ages 9–12
Ages 9 – 12
Thursdays
4:30 – 6 pm
Art Education Center, Studio 1
Enrollment Limit: 12
$30 (VMFA members $25)
Imagine, create, and grow as an emerging young artist while making original artworks inspired by gallery observations and innovative materials. Through technical guidance and encouragement from VMFA educators, students build their confidence, talents, and love of art!
[CF27] Elements of Architecture
Thu, May 1, 4:30–6 pm | Art Education Center, Studio 1
CATHERINE PURDY
Ages 9–12 | Embark on a sketching quest filled with adventure and hidden surprises in the galleries! Focus on perspective and architectural details as you fill your sketchbook with observations of the museum’s captivating spaces.
$30 (VMFA members $25)
[CF28] Color & Kahlo
Thu, May 8, 4:30–6 pm | Art Education Center, Studio 1
CATHERINE PURDY
Ages 9–12 | Celebrate Frida Kahlo’s creativity with mixed-media self-portraits! Explore color theory and use fun materials to craft expressive artworks, inspired by her brilliant use of color and personal themes.
$30 (VMFA members $25)
Kids Discover- ages 5–8
Ages 5 – 8
Select Saturdays
1 – 4 pm
Art Education Center | Studio 2
Enrollment Limit: 12
$40 (VMFA members $30)
Explore a variety of materials and subject matter while discovering new techniques and styles from around the world.
[CD11] Flower Power
Sat, May 3, 1–4 pm | Art Education Center, Studio 2
Elizabeth Daly
Ages 5–8 |Celebrate the season by using fresh blooms and organic materials in your art! Learn how artists are endlessly inspired by natural beauty and use real flowers as tools and art media.
$40 (VMFA members $30)
Studio Explorations- ages 9–12
Ages 9 – 12
Select Saturdays
1 – 4 pm
Art Education Center | Studio 1
Enrollment limit: 12
$40 (VMFA members $30)
Be inspired by artists from around the world! Enhance your skill set as you explore a different type of art and medium in every class.
[CX11] Portraits with Personality
Sat, May 3, 1–4 pm | Art Education Center, Studio 1
Kassidy Strosnider
Ages 9–12 | Paint an expressive self-portrait inspired by Frida Kahlo! Using acrylic paints, focus
on facial proportions, intense colors, and personal symbols that capture your mood and identity. Add fresh florals for a natural touch to your creative process.
$40 (VMFA members $30)
