All classes are now listed on the Scadlr platform.
Classes with no specified age range are meant for adults ages 18+
- “Intergenerational” = Children under 10 must be accompanied by guardian
- “All ages” = For ages 7+
Featured Class!
Abstract Figurative Painting:
AB/FIG with Gary Nusinow
Saturday, May 17 – 31, 9 AM – Noon
We will explore the integration of figurative and abstract imagery in a series of drawing and painting exercises. We will sketch from a live model in a tableau setting for the first session and focus on completing one or more paintings over the following three classes. The integration of abstract and figurative elements allows us to bridge two tenets of painting and in the process, expand our visual art vocabulary. This approach is challenging but rewarding.

Featured Workshops with Master Teaching Artist Laura Milkins

The following workshops are offered in partnership with the Tucson Bird Alliance at The Drawing Studio (2760 N Tucson Blvd). Please visit tucsonbirds.org/festival/ to find more workshops and sign up for this one! Registration is open starting Tuesday, April 29 at 10am. Festival registration is $30. TDS students can get $30 FREE using code “thrasher” (with no quotes).
Saturday, Aug 9, 1 – 4 PM
Desert Birds in Charcoal Workshop
Drawing is about looking deeply. Since the days of Audubon, art has been a way to understand birds on an intimate and detailed level. In this workshop, we will focus on the patterns found on birds of the Sonoran desert. First we will enjoy some bird images from art history with a focus on charcoal drawing. Next we will draw sample patterns using charcoal, a fun and forgiving medium that allows you to quickly render an image. Step by step, I will walk you through drawing techniques that make this process of creating patterns fun and accessible to beginners as well as more advanced participants. Finally, working from a photo, we will draw an Elf Owl using these simple techniques to create a charming charcoal drawing.
Sunday, Aug 10, 1 – 4 PM
Desert Birds in Pastel Workshop
Capture the colors of Sonoran desert birds, from the vibrant red of a vermillion flycatcher to the subtle browns and tans of a cactus wren. Since the days of Audubon, art has been a way to understand birds on an intimate and detailed level. In this workshop, we will focus on the color found on birds of the Sonoran desert. First we will enjoy some colorful bird images from art history. Next we will use pastel to create color patches to match the colors of several desert birds. Step by step, I will walk you through pastel techniques that make this process of color matching fun and accessible to beginners as well as more advanced participants. Finally, working from a photo, we will create a vermillion flycatcher using these simple pastel techniques.

Have questions? Call us text us at 520-585-0748, call (520) 620-0947 or email us at tds@thedrawingstudio.org.
“I admire people who can draw and paint! I’ve always had a longing to try it myself. I just needed a little encouragement.” – Drawing Studio student
At The Drawing Studio, we believe art and the opportunity to make art should be accessible to everyone, because learning to draw has the power to enrich anyone’s life!
If you understand creativity to be a talent, then you don’t work at it. However, if you understand creativity as a skill that can be strengthened, then the possibilities grow.
People seek what The Drawing Studio offers for many reasons: some have been creating since childhood; for others, art making is a new experience. Many come ready to let go of the message that they just aren’t “talented”.
Drawing, painting, and more
We invite you to explore The Drawing Studio classes and workshops and discover if there’s something right for you. We provide instruction in a variety of mediums: not only drawing. You can study painting, printmaking, collage, sculpture, cartooning, and more from our exceptional teaching artists. Courses are designed for all ages and skill levels, with curriculum and projects specific to youth (ages 6-17) and adults. Our oldest students are in their 90s!
Courses are offered year-round – on weekdays, evenings, and weekends – at our main studio and satellite locations in northwest Tucson. Since 2020 – The Drawing Studio is available worldwide through our Virtual classes!