If you’ve ever dreamed of picking up a paintbrush, sketching your own illustrations or exploring the history of creativity, there has never been a better time to start. With online art classes, you can learn new skills from the comfort of your own home.
In this guide, you’ll discover some of the best online art courses that cater to hobbyists and those looking to take their skills further. We explore different disciplines so you can choose the artistic course that matches your interests and goals.
Jump to:
- Is It Possible to Learn Art Online?
- The Best Online Art Courses With Centre of Excellence
- Acrylic Painting Diploma Course
- Art History Diploma Course
- Botanical Illustration Diploma Course
- Digital Art Diploma Course
- Drawing for Beginners Diploma Course
- Introduction to Figurative Art and Portraiture Diploma Course
- Mandala Art Diploma Course
- Watercolour Painting Diploma Course
- Frequently Asked Questions
- £29 Art Diploma Courses with Centre of Excellence
Is It Possible to Learn Art Online?
Online art courses are designed to give you hands-on learning experiences. Through step-by-step projects and video demonstrations, learning art online can be just as effective as attending in-person classes.
Here’s why online art classes are so popular:
- Flexibility: Learn at your own pace and fit creative practice around your lifestyle.
- Variety: Explore a wide range of mediums and subjects, from acrylic painting to digital art, without leaving home.
- Community: Join online study groups and connect with fellow artists for inspiration and support.
- Affordability: Many courses offer excellent value, including lifetime access to resources.
The Best Online Art Courses With Centre of Excellence
1. Acrylic Painting Diploma Course
The Acrylic Painting Diploma Course takes you from complete beginner to confident painter, combining simplified theory with hands-on projects to help you grow your skills. You’ll explore essential tools and materials and practice a variety of subjects, from still life to landscapes.
Step-by-step exercises and clear guidance ensure you feel supported at every stage. Perfect for those new to acrylic painting or returning to the art form after a break, this course will give you the confidence and inspiration to keep creating long after it ends.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Understand acrylic painting basics: Discover how acrylics compare to other mediums and cost-effective ways to get started.
- Master essential techniques: Learn brushwork, colour mixing, layering, and how to apply paint effectively.
- Paint a range of subjects: Practice still lifes, natural landscapes, cityscapes, and found objects with step-by-step guidance.
2. Art History Diploma Course
The Art History Diploma Course takes you on a journey through the evolution of visual art, exploring how creativity has reflected and influenced societies across time. From prehistoric cave paintings to contemporary installations, you’ll examine the styles and cultural contexts that shaped each era.
Perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts, this course offers both a broad overview and in-depth insights into the artistic movements that have shaped human history.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Understand the relationship between art and history: Explore how cultural, political, and societal changes have influenced artistic expression across different eras.
- Explore global art traditions: Study Middle Eastern, European, and post-colonial art, from the Byzantine and Baroque periods to Romanticism and Impressionism.
- Analyse modern and contemporary movements: Examine 20th-century and contemporary styles such as Cubism, Surrealism, Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptualism.
3. Botanical Illustration Diploma Course
The Botanical Illustration Diploma Course combines scientific precision with artistic expression, teaching you how to capture the beauty of plants in detailed artwork. From delicate pencil sketches to vibrant watercolours, you’ll explore a range of traditional and digital techniques while learning the history and importance of botanical illustration in both science and art.
Perfect for nature lovers and aspiring illustrators, this course offers guidance on creating surface pattern designs and selling your botanical artwork.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Master artistic techniques: Use pencils, gel pens, watercolours, and digital tools to create detailed botanical illustrations.
- Enhance your use of colour: Apply colour theory to bring depth and vibrancy to natural subjects.
- Take your passion further: Learn how to work on illustration commissions and sell your art online or at fairs.
4. Digital Art Diploma Course
The Digital Art Diploma Course is your complete guide to creating art in the digital medium, whether you’re starting from scratch or transitioning from traditional techniques. You’ll explore creative psychology and the principles of design while learning to use the tools and software that bring your ideas to life on screen.
With practical guidance on drawing figures and landscapes digitally, you’ll gain both the technical skills and artistic understanding needed to produce compelling digital works.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Understand the nature of art: Explore different art theories and the creative process behind compelling work.
- Master the building blocks of design: Study the elements and principles of art, including colour theory and composition.
- Enhance observational ability: Learn to draw from life, sketch on location and translate what you see into expressive digital pieces.
5. Drawing for Beginners Diploma Course
The Drawing for Beginners Diploma Course gives you a solid foundation in drawing techniques, helping you progress steadily while building confidence in your skills. You’ll explore the materials and methods used in drawing, as well as the core artistic principles that underpin every great piece of art.
With guided practice in still lifes, landscapes, animals, and cityscapes, this course ensures you’ll gain hands-on experience across a variety of subjects. Perfect for complete beginners or those returning to drawing after a break, this course removes the fear of the blank page and replaces it with knowledge and creativity.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Learn how to draw: Build the skills and confidence to approach any subject matter with ease.
- Understand artistic fundamentals: Study composition, shading techniques, perspective, and the use of space.
- Gain inspiration and direction: Discover which techniques and subjects you most enjoy, helping you focus your future artistic development.
6. Introduction to Figurative Art and Portraiture Diploma Course
The Introduction to Figurative Art and Portraiture Diploma Course teaches you how to accurately capture the human form, from full-body anatomy to the smallest facial details. You’ll learn proportion and gesture drawing techniques, along with practical guidance for drawing and painting with a variety of materials.
With step-by-step work-along projects, you’ll develop the skills to create lifelike, expressive figurative artworks. Perfect for beginners or those wanting to refine their understanding of anatomy and portraiture, this course combines artistic theory with hands-on practice.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Work with multiple mediums: Gain experience using pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, watercolour, and acrylics.
- Tackle tricky details: Develop techniques for drawing expressive facial features and capturing realistic hands and feet.
- Complete guided projects: Follow five start-to-finish projects, culminating in a finished self-portrait in acrylic paint.
7. Mandala Art Diploma Course
The Mandala Art Diploma Course introduces you to the rich symbolism and cultural heritage of mandalas. You’ll explore their meanings and uses across different traditions, while learning how to design your own using sacred geometry and thematic inspiration.
With guidance on incorporating mandalas into energy work and personal well-being practices, this course combines artistic creation with holistic benefits. Perfect for those seeking a meditative art form or a creative outlet, this course is suitable for all skill levels.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Explore the benefits of mandalas: Discover how they can support relaxation, clarity, energy work, and overall well-being.
- Create your own mandalas: Learn the materials and design principles using sacred geometry and symbolism.
- Incorporate specific themes: Design mandalas inspired by concepts such as life vision, labyrinths, chakras, spirit animals, gratitude, and nature.
8. Watercolour Painting Diploma Course
The Watercolour Painting Diploma Course offers a comprehensive introduction to this versatile medium, guiding you through essential techniques and creative exercises. You’ll explore different styles and develop both technical skill and personal expression.
With insights from professional painters and guidance on building a portfolio, this course also covers how to display and sell your work. Perfect for beginners or those seeking a mindful, creative hobby, this course is all about hands-on learning.
Benefits: By enrolling in this course, you will:
- Build a strong foundation: Understand art theories, light and shade, perspective, and both traditional and modern watercolour techniques.
- Learn essential tools and methods: Choose and use brushes, paints, papers, and accessories effectively.
- Create and critique: Complete a full-size painting and learn to view and analyse professional works to improve your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do online art courses take to complete?
The time it takes to complete an art course depends on your schedule and how much time you dedicate to practising. Many learners complete their studies within a few weeks to a couple of months. All Centre of Excellence art courses are self-paced, so you can study whenever it suits you, whether that’s in the evenings, at weekends, or during quiet moments in your day.
Are these online art courses accredited?
Many of our art courses are accredited by respected professional bodies such as CPD and the Quality Licence Scheme. This means your learning is recognised to a professional standard, and your achievements carry value whether you’re pursuing art as a hobby or as part of a creative career.
Do I need any art experience to get started?
Our courses are designed for everyone, from complete beginners picking up a pencil or paintbrush for the first time to experienced artists who want to refine their skills or explore a new medium.
Are the courses suitable for all age groups?
Our courses are designed for adult learners, making them ideal whether you’re discovering art later in life or looking to build on existing skills.
What kind of support will I receive during my studies?
When you enrol, you’ll have access to expert tutor support to guide you through the course. You’ll also join our online learning community, including the Centre of Excellence Facebook Study Group, a supportive space to share your progress and connect with other art enthusiasts.
£29 Art Diploma Courses with Centre of Excellence
Ready to explore your creativity and develop your artistic skills? With Diploma Courses available for just £29, it’s never been easier or more affordable to invest in your passion. Whether you want to master watercolours, explore digital art, capture the beauty of nature in botanical illustration, or try your hand at figurative drawing, you’ll find practical and easy-to-follow training designed to help you succeed.
