Top venues for art classes in and around College Station
If you’re someone who wants to dip their toes – or rather, brush? – into the world of art, you’ll be glad to know that College Station, TX and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for complete beginners and seasoned creators alike to explore their artistic side.
Here is a round-up of some of the best spots in Aggieland where you may unleash your inner artist and learn everything from pottery to painting.
WHITE LOTUS POTTERY
9204 Waterford Drive, College Station
Under the guidance of skilled instructor and owner Amanda Bartel, this boutique studio offers an intimate and mindful approach to ceramic arts, with hands-on instruction in both wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. The facility features four pottery wheels, making it ideal for focused, small-group instruction that ensures personalized attention.
The studio distinguishes itself through its commitment to the complete ceramic process, including the development and on-site creation of its own cone 5/6 glazes. White Lotus Pottery’s classes welcome participants of all skill levels – no previous experience is required. The comprehensive class fee includes essential materials – clay, tools, and instruction – with an optional firing service available for completed works.
PAINTING WITH A TWIST
1643 South Texas Avenue, College Station
Another one of College Station’s creative venues, Painting with a Twist offers a distinctive approach to artistic instruction. This studio specializes in creating a relaxed atmosphere where both novice and experienced painters may explore their creativity. Their acrylic painting classes accommodate various surfaces, including canvas and wood, while maintaining a welcoming environment that encourages social interaction.
The studio offers flexible attendance options. While scheduled classes require advance reservations, their “Pop In and Paint” program allows spontaneous visits during business hours for self-directed painting sessions. As a BYOB establishment, guests may bring refreshments to enhance their experience, though alcohol is not permitted during designated Family Day events.
Their service extends beyond in-studio sessions to include comprehensive at-home paint kits and customizable painting parties. These options provide all the necessary materials – including canvases, paints, and brushes – along with detailed instructions. Parties may be arranged either in-person or virtually, with both on-site and off-site locations available.
BIRD’S NEST
117 North Main Street, Downtown Bryan
More than your usual gift shop along Main Street, this establishment sells quirky merchandise from seasonal items to cast-iron molds. On top of that, it has a studio where a workshop on chalk painting is held, focusing on the Annie Sloan® method of painting. This hands-on workshop has a certified Annie Sloan-trained instructor at the helm, ensuring authenticity and expertise in teaching the painting techniques under this method. Participants are usually provided with the necessary supplies, aprons, and paint for use during the workshop. Even snacks and beverages are also offered during the class, although participants are free to bring their own food if they wish.
BRAZOS GLASSWORKS
202 West 26th Street, Bryan
Learn the intricacies of creating artworks using glass, including glass fusing, jewelry making, mosaics, and stained glass, in this Bryan, TX studio and shop.
Brazos Glassworks has a two-hour beginner’s class on fused glass art. Here, participants learn to create unique art pieces using thin glass wafers and colorful glass “noodles.” Private workshops tailored to your interests are also available. These sessions cover a variety of techniques, including
- Glass jewelry making
- Creating bowls and plates
- Suncatchers and light catchers
- Mosaic art
- Stained glass projects
- Alcohol ink and resin techniques
DEGALLERY
930 North Rosemary Drive, Bryan
Aggieland’s newest destination for artists, DEGALLERY takes great pride in being a space where artists of every age and talent level freely express themselves.Founded and led by practicing artist Dary Dega, DEGALLERY offers individual and group classes on drawing and painting for both kids and adults. It also has classes on fashion design, knitting and crochet, and finger sculpture, making it the perfect venue for those who are serious about kick-starting their journey into the arts.
THE PURPLE TURTLE ART STUDIO
800 South Bryan Avenue, Bryan
A cornerstone of Downtown Bryan’s arts community since 2000, The Purple Turtle Art Studio offers a comprehensive range of artistic instruction under the dedicated leadership of owner LeAnn Hale.
Structured learning opportunities are available for both children and adults here, making art education accessible to the entire community. The Studio’s program particularly shines in youth education, featuring semester-long classes tailored for students from kindergarten through high school. During the summer months, it offers art camps that cover diverse mediums, including drawing, painting, fiber art, comics, and digital art. Adult learners aren’t left out, of course – the studio maintains regular classes for grown-ups seeking to develop their artistic skills. Additionally, they host art parties, making them a versatile venue for creative social gatherings.
From art schools to dining and retail options, there will never be a dull moment when living in College Station. To help you find your new place here, reach out to the local real estate experts of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) Caliber Realty. Call them at 979.694.8844 or send an email here to get started.