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Unleash your inner Picasso at the 5 best art schools in Brisbane
Finding the right art school in Brisbane can feel hard, especially when there are so many studios and workshops to compare.
Where you land really comes down to your schedule and skill level, plus how serious you want to get. A relaxed hobby class and proper training are two very different paths.
The right creative community makes all the difference, much as it does when you’re choosing dance classes or a kindergarten for your little ones. So here are my standout spaces with welcoming vibes and strong guidance.
How much does art school cost in Brisbane?
Art school costs across Brisbane usually sit around $30 to $100+ per session, while university degrees and specialised term packages cost much more.
| Course Type | Approximate Cost |
| University Degrees | $25,500 to $28,500 per year |
| Vocational Courses (Technical and Further Education, or TAFE) | $5,605 to $11,850 total |
| Casual Workshops & Private Studios | $30 to $100+ per session |
| Specialised Academy Term Packages | $540 to $690 per term |
1. Bienarté
Website: https://bienarte.com.au/home
Address: 15 Nariel Street, Albion
Contact: 07 3262 1808 | 0409 641 426
Hours: Monday-Sunday, by appointment only
Bienarté teaches many fine-art mediums in custom-built, air-conditioned studios. The space feels professional without being intimidating, so you can settle in and focus.
I spoke to a friend who took their painting course, and she couldn’t stop raving about the small-group feedback and clear learning path.
The teachers are award-winning Australian and global artists, so students move from basics into advanced mentoring. That means you don’t feel stuck after one beginner class.
One thing to keep in mind is the focus on traditional fine art, like oils and pastels. If you want digital illustration or graphic design, you may want to look elsewhere.
Customer Reviews
Great classes and very welcoming
Great classes and very welcoming and friendly people. I completed the foundations in Oils class. Each of the sessions were extremely useful – lots to learn and you end up with a great piece of paintings! Highly recommend to anyone interested in developing a creative new hobby 🙂
Kate L | Google Review
Guided us in the right path to discover our own style
I just finished 2 months class at Bienarté it was wonderful, our teacher Ai, an amazing artist very knowledgeable and an amazing tutor, guided us in the right path to discover our own stile. I always felt very comfortable and relaxed w a friendly atmosphere in class. Totally recommend!! Foundation in oils!! Level 1
grace moura | Google Review
2. Brisbane Institute of Art
Website: https://brisart.org/
Address: 41 Grafton Street, Windsor
Contact: 07 3857 5377
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The Brisbane Institute of Art covers far more than painting and drawing. The range spans ceramics, sculpture, and jewellery making, so it feels less limiting than a narrow studio program.
Their long semester classes give you time to build confidence. So you won’t feel rushed like you might in a one-off workshop. Plus, the on-site gallery adds a nice layer if you want to meet the local arts community.
I really appreciate that they run evening and weekend options too. That makes regular classes feel realistic for busy adults.
The catch is the strict booking rules. Missed classes can’t be made up, and late cancellations aren’t refunded.
Customer Reviews
A great and attentive teacher
Just completed the introduction to stone setting with Renata Fojtikova, who was a great and attentive teacher and it was an amazing week learning how to make rings for tube setting. I can’t wait to complete another jewellery course, highly recommend!
Madge | Google Review
Weekend drawing using mixed media workshop was excellent
Weekend drawing using mixed media workshop with Steve Newton was excellent. Please put my name on the list for his future workshops. Venue was a surprise. I did not know the gallery existed. Thank you
Jenny Anastasi | Google Review
3. Brisbane Art Classes
Website: https://www.brisbaneartclasses.com/
Address: Unit 8/7 High St, Highgate Hill
Contact: 0415 360 939
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:30 PM; Saturday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A clear, classical curriculum rather than a loose drop-in vibe sets Brisbane Art Classes apart. The courses run on a set plan, taught by Mark Feiler, an award-winning exhibiting artist.
The plan moves step by step through proportions and colour mixing, which helps if you want to build real skill. And if you’d rather go one-on-one, they also offer private classes so you can tailor the lesson to your goal.
I’ve tried their online setup myself, and the live demos and paintovers feel direct.
The catch is the narrow style focus. You won’t find modern or abstract art here. Classes are also for ages sixteen and up.
Customer Reviews
Excellent teaching and patience
I have just completed Mark’s 10-Week Plein Air painting class, and would highly recommend it to anyone regardless of their perceived ability. I have not painted in 10 years, and yet, with Mark’s excellent teaching and patience, I have made considerable progress in a few short weeks. Mark is an excellent teacher, and great at breaking down complex concepts and reminding you to take a step back and focus on the fundamentals.
Oscar Davison | Google Review
I learnt a lot during the 10 week portraiture class
Mark is a great teacher, and is very knowledgeable with portraiture and oils. I learnt a lot during the 10 week portraiture class and feel more confident with my panting skill. Looking forward to doing more classes with Mark in future.
K. S. | Google Review
4. Art Class Brisbane
Website: https://artclassbrisbane.com.au/
Address: 92 King Street, Annerley
Contact: 0411 707 337
Hours: No available schedule information
Founder Katie McErlean is a working artist, and she runs Art Class Brisbane to put creative play ahead of strict technique. The permanent studio in Annerley gives young creators a steady place to get messy and grow.
It’s reassuring that the weekly lessons build skills through mixed media and wearable art, so the kids don’t have to chase perfect results.
I also like that term programs are sorted by age, from young kids through to teens.
The main downside is that the term programs are built for ages five to seventeen. Adults will find the options limited. The studio also doesn’t offer makeup classes for absences.
Customer Reviews
Lets everyone express their creativity
Art classes and workshops at Art Class Brisbane are always welcoming and fun. My kids and I have enjoyed painting, drawing, collage and clay classes with Katie. We have benefited from Katie’s encouragement and expertise, to create some fabulous art! Katie’s warm motivational style lets everyone express their creativity and develop confidence in our art.
Joelle Lenz | Google Review
Fantastic with children
My son attended a Christmas art class with Katie and absolutely loved it. Katie is fantastic with children – so patient, encouraging and genuinely great at bringing out their creativity. He came home so proud of what he’d made. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a relaxed, positive art class for kids.
Katie Tomkins | Google Review
5. Lilly-Lee Gallery – Art School
Website: https://www.lilly-lee.com.au/
Address: 138 Weller Road, Tarragindi
Contact: 0409 625 541
Hours: Monday, 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM; Tuesday-Wednesday, 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM; Thursday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
A long-running community studio with lots of flexibility, Lilly-Lee Gallery – Art School has welcomed local creators since 2008. That history gives them a steady, trusted reputation.
Their adult program lets you choose your own project and pace. You still get guidance from working artist-teachers, but you keep control of the work.
What really won me over is the inclusive setup, with National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supported placements. That makes the studio feel more open than many art schools.
The trade-off is that regular courses need an upfront term commitment. They don’t offer casual or trial classes, so you can’t test a session first.
Customer Reviews
So flexible for shift workers
Being a nurse that works shift work, it is hard finding art classes that cater to my busy and unpredictable schedule. Lilly Lee is so flexible for shift workers, and there has always been a class I could attend. The staff are fantastic, especially Donna who can turn any amateur into a star. Would highly recommend!
J S | Google Review
Everyone works on their own artwork and at their own pace
I started at Lilly-Lee more than 18 months ago and have since learnt so much from Perrin and Tanya. Whether you’re experienced or starting from scratch, everyone works on their own artwork and at their own pace while receiving plenty of guidance. Perrin has also created a warm and supportive environment for all the students – I’ve met so many interesting people!
Nicola Cowen | Google Review
