Art courses are age-based for children, adults and senior citizens. Some programs welcome children as young as three to introduce them to color, drawing and sculpture. If you are an adult beginning art student, seek "first-time artists" programs with introductory courses in the art technique of your choice. Senior citizens can find art classes geared toward seniors' limited motor abilities at senior centers, churches and other community groups.
Your approach to an art class should include your intended outcome. For example, if you only want to learn basic photography skills, you should register for a beginning photography class. But if you want to study many aspects of art, you should begin with drawing and move forward from there to other areas such as sculpture and painting. If you are an advanced artist, look for classes that reach more detail in your area of interest, such as plein air painting or art glass. Those who want to study art formally should apply to an art school or college degree program.
Larger metropolitan areas have multiple choices for art courses -- such as private studios, art schools, community colleges and community centers like the YMCA. If you live in a rural area where art courses are not prevalent, consider online courses.
Art courses can cost nothing or many thousands of dollars. Free online courses offer instruction but no critique. Meanwhile, national-chain craft stores such as Michaels, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores and Hobby Lobby offer reasonably priced art and craft courses for beginners and advanced students. For the serious art student, week-long residential courses -- some overseas in exotic locales such as Italy and France -- can cost thousands of dollars. Choose the option that best meets your budget.