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Craft Your Masterpiece: Top Art Classes in Wisconsin Await

Artist painting in a studio, surrounded by art supplies and finished pieces.

Artist focused on a vibrant painting in her studio.

One good way to spend an afternoon is relaxing in a soothing creative atmosphere while producing a piece of art, whether it be a painting, a sculpture, or something even more unique. Art classes can be fun as well as educational and these are some of the best in Wisconsin.

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Fired Up Pottery & Glass, Madison, WI

At Fired Up Pottery & Glass you can walk in and craft for about an hour to an hour and half, shaping clay to your heart’s desire. After you finish your project it is fired in the kiln, and you receive it seven to 10 days later. There are also projects for babies, toddlers, and children younger than six. Also, the shop is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas—perfect for a weeknight event or a weekend relaxation.

River City Gallery La Crosse, La Crosse, WI

According to the Gallery La Crosse’s website, “One of our core values here at the Gallery La Crosse Artists Cooperative is to provide public art classes and craft classes, which are convenient, affordable, and fun.” It also provides a caveat that most of the classes are single-session and “make-and-take.” Some may require two sessions to complete the project however. All ages are welcome. 

Art Garage, Green Bay, WI

Doesn’t the name just sound extra creative? At the Art Garage there are adult workshops, youth workshops, and youth summer art workshops available to attend. Peruse the website to see a list of possible classes, some of which are Leather Crafts, Adult Jewelry making, Painting III: Watercolor, and Art Meets Yoga.

Paintin’ Pottery, De Pere, WI

Though the name does give it away, at Paintin’ Pottery, painting isn’t the only thing to do. The shop offers Glass Fusing, Mosaics, and creating Wood Signs in addition to the painting activities. Those are Paint-Your-Own-Pottery, Wine Glass Painting, and Canvas Painting. Plan a day with a friend or plan a party for all to attend. The Paintin’ Pottery shop offers both options.

Cream City Clay, West Allis, WI

Cream City Clay is a “learning and development center for the advancement of ceramic art,” according to its website. Students, teachers, and studio artists alike, have the opportunity to visit Cream City Clay and grow artistically, no matter the level. Choose from a list of advanced classes or beginner events, there’s a number of courses on offer.

The Farmhouse Paint Bar & Hall, Milwaukee, WI

Create art at this vintage farmhouse built in 1890. The owners encourage guests to create memories while creating art; all ages are welcome. But of course, those 21 and older are welcome to enjoy the full bar with wine, beer, and cocktails available for purchase. Each Step-by-Step Canvas Painting Party includes two to three hours of instruction, all materials, and set up and clean up. 

The Trout Museum of Art, Appleton, WI

While the Trout Museum of Art is obviously a museum that showcases many pieces, it also offers educational art classes. Check out their online calendar for upcoming classes such as Printmaking for adults, Ceramics for beginners ages 14 to 18, and Beginning Watercolor Workshop for adults. Take some time before or after the class you attend to peruse what the museum has to offer.

The Glass Garden, Janesville, WI

The Glass Garden is a perfectly chosen moniker for this stained-glass studio. They offer a range of courses. Some are for those with minimal glass-cutting experience while others are catered to those who are looking to improve upon the skills they already have. There are also classes introducing a variety of techniques like mosaic, fusing, and etching.

Key Insights at a Glance

  • Fired Up Pottery & Glass: The center is a walk-in clay and glass studio open year-round (except Thanksgiving and Christmas). Projects are kiln-fired and ready in 7–10 days. It is great for all ages.
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  • River City Gallery La Crosse: They offer affordable, single-session "make-and-take" art and craft classes, along with occasional multi-session workshops. All ages are welcome.
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  • Art Garage: Hosts adult and youth workshops, including summer programs. Classes cover leather crafts, jewelry, watercolor painting, and yoga-art fusion.
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  • Paintin' Pottery: More than just pottery—try glass fusing, mosaics, wood signs, and canvas painting. Great for parties or casual creative days.
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  • Cream City Clay: Ceramic-focused art center with beginner to advanced classes. Welcomes students, teachers, and professional artists.
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  • The Farmhouse Paint Bar & Hall: This historic venue offers step-by-step canvas painting with drinks. It is open to all ages, and adults 21+ can enjoy the bar.
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  • The Trout Museum of Art: Besides exhibitions, the museum hosts classes in printmaking, ceramics, and watercolor for teens and adults.
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  • The Glass Garden: Specializes in stained glass with beginner and intermediate classes. Learn techniques like fusing, mosaics, and etching.
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