Session 1, Urban Canvas: Street Art & Community in Chicago

Turn walls into canvases and streets into galleries in this high-impact studio course. You will explore the powerful world of public art, from graffiti and murals to large-scale visual storytelling and community building. Experiment with techniques like spray paint, stenciling, wheat pasting, and bold graphic drawing, while developing work that reflects your voice and point of view. Students will create individual works through live demonstrations, virtual artist talks, critiques, and portfolio-focused projects, and contribute to collaborative public concepts. This is a drawing and painting course at its core, but students are encouraged to push boundaries and combine media that suit their vision. Whether you're interested in murals, design, comics, or street culture, this course offers a dynamic path to producing bold, portfolio-worthy work that stands out. 

NOTE: Some basic drawing experience is preferred, but not required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

2.0 College Credits
Full Tuition Cost: $3,816

This cost does not reflect any potential Merit Scholarship or need-based financial aid the student may be awarded. Housing and meal plan rates are still being finalized for 2026 and are estimated to be $675 a week.

Registration Deadline is noon on Monday, June 1st.

There are two registration options for this course. Call us at 312.629.6170 or email cs@saic.edu if you have any questions! We're happy to help.

Option 1: Pay in full now.
Select this option if you do not wish to apply for scholarships and are ready to pay tuition in full now. The full cost of the program includes a $100 non-refundable tuition deposit. Please note, current housing and meal plan fees are estimates, and you will receive a final bill once 2026 rates have been finalized.

Option 2: Apply for aid/scholarships and pay a $100 non-refundable tuition deposit.
Select this option if you would like to apply for a merit scholarship and/or financial aid scholarship. Once you have been notified of your potential award amounts, we will share instructions on how to pay the remaining balance.