Session 1, Advanced Painting and Drawing Studio

In this course, students will focus their interests and refine their skills to create strong, portfolio-quality work. This advanced course is intended for students with previous drawing and/or painting experience who are ready to experiment, take risks, and push their skills to the next level. The organization of ideas and development of self-directed work is emphasized with instructor guidance and peer support. Students explore contemporary artistic practices through interdisciplinary approaches that cultivate material exploration, image-making strategies, and traditional and non-traditional drawing and painting techniques. Led by their individual projects and goals, students may work in various media, such as water-based paint, oil paint, ink, pencil, charcoal, collage, or a combination of media. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, contemporary artist presentations, group critiques, daily writing exercises, and class discussions supplement the studio experience. 

NOTE: Painting and/or drawing experience and ability to work independently required. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework/research 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.