Art Classes at Paisley Studios

Paisley Studios is very committed to helping you begin, return to, continue, and SUSTAIN a creative practice. We recognize that there are a lot of barriers, self-judgment, and high stakes when it comes to making art. Underneath all of that, we still believe that there is a deep desire to learn, a curiosity that cannot be ignored, and that creativity is not a luxury, but a necessity of our existence.*

*This guiding concept comes from feminist hero, Audre Lorde’s essay “Poetry is Not a Luxury” first published in 1977.


“Seeing Flowers” special beginner skill building class in room 203

Beginner Skill Building Classes are aimed at newer students who wish to explore a particular technique or topic in depth. They provide a basic framework for further exploration and development. All classes will include relevant references to both contemporary and historical women artists.

Studio Practice Classes These classes are truly for all levels of students—those who have been curious about certain materials and have a healthy amount of curiosity and humility to BEGIN, as well as anyone who already has a lot of knowledge and skills, but wants to build some sustainable working habits, create alongside others, and take their commitment to their work to the next level. We play the long game in these classes, they are about developing and sustaining your creative practice in a group setting. All is possible.

**These classes are a mix of long term and new students and are often marked “FULL”; however, please contact the studio directly about space in these classes or to be put on a waitlist.

Figure Drawing Sessions are run occasionally and are simply for practicing drawing the human form. No instruction, nor un-solicited feedback is provided. “Bad drawing” is inevitable, it’s all just practice.

Visiting Artist Classes are offered by special guest artists that are skilled in their craft and interested in sharing their knowledge and time with others. The studio is dedicated to supporting both artists and students as they explore the process of making something together.

Need further information regarding classes? Please see Principles & Policies

Please be aware that the studios are located on the second floor and unfortunately, are not ADA-accessible.

 Paisley Studios is proud to be one of Vibe of Portland’s community studios! Learn more about Kids Classes