Visual Arts Classes
If you or your child are interested in learning visual arts techniques in a welcoming and open-minded environment, you’re in the right place.
We offer classes for ages 6 & up (in varied age groups) and cover varied skills in drawing, color mixing, brush technique, art history, & more!
Our tailored curricula are structured to help students build new technique while still allowing space to explore individual interests.
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Above all, our goal is to foster a sense of continued curiosity and creativity in the visual arts!
Nitara Kittles
Director of Visual Arts
Nitara Kittles is a multi-disciplinary artist and arts-educator born and raised in Asheville, NC. Her educational forays include full scholarships to programs in Italy and Australia, culminating in a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2023. As an arts educator, Nitara seeks to provide students with the hard skills and art-historical context to effectively realize their own innate creativity. She believes that everyone is capable of being an artist when given the right tools.
In her own studio practice, Nitara's work encompasses a variety of mediums including oil painting, printmaking, sculpture, and works within themes of body, space, and escape.
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FAQ
What ages are your art classes for?
We offer classes for ages 3 and up. Our preschool art classes (ages 3–5) focus on sensory play and discovery, while classes with students aged 6 and up emphasize technique, creativity, and individual expression. We also offer adult classes!
Do students need any prior art experience?
Not at all! Our curriculum is designed to meet students where they are. Whether your child is just beginning to explore crayons and paint, or an older student wants to refine drawing or painting skills, we adjust activities to suit their level. Adult classes are also open to any skill level!
What types of art do you teach?
Our goal is a well-rounded curriculum, and we cover a wide variety, including drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and mixed media. For younger ages, we emphasize hands-on sensory exploration; for older students, we integrate more formal techniques and art history connections. Please note that we do not offer pottery classes or advanced print-making techniques.
Are supplies included in the tuition?
Yes! For group classes, all supplies are included. For private or advanced lessons, students may sometimes bring their own sketchbooks or specialty items, but we’ll provide clear guidance in advance.
How big are the classes?
Our group art classes are intentionally small (typically 6–8 students max) so each student receives personal attention while still benefiting from the energy of a group setting. Private lessons may also be available.
How do you handle mess?
Art can get messy—and that’s part of the fun! We encourage students to wear clothes that can get paint on them. Smocks or aprons are also provided in class, and our studio is set up for easy cleanup.
Do you showcase student artwork?
Yes! We host seasonal showcases and open houses where families and friends can view students’ work. We also celebrate progress informally by displaying art in our studios and sharing student highlights (with parent permission).
How do I know which class is the right fit?
We’ll chat with you about your child’s age, interests, and goals. Our staff can recommend whether a Discovery Class, Preschool Art Class, or an older weekly Art Class is the best starting point. If you're an adult student, we encourage you to come to an intro group class and see how you like it! It can be intimidating at first, but we work hard to build a friendly and welcoming environment where you can express your creativity.
Can parents sit in on classes?
For younger children (ages 3–5), parents are welcome to stay for the first session or two to help the child feel comfortable. As children adjust, we encourage independence, while keeping communication open with parents.
What if my child misses a class?
We offer make-up opportunities when available. Simply contact us as soon as possible so we can help arrange a solution.
Do you offer adult art classes?
Yes! We offer adult classes for all skill levels! Some adult students are looking to build specific skills while others are looking for a new creative outlet or a way to relieve stress. We cater our adult group classes to individual interests and skills.
How do I get started?
The first step is to schedule an Intro Class or Discovery Class visit. This gives your child (or you!) a chance to experience our teaching style and see if it feels like a good fit. From there, we’ll set up ongoing enrollment. If you have more questions about our visual arts program please don't hesitate to reach out.
More About Nitara Kittles
Exhibitions
Group Exhibition: “Timeless”. Gallery 906. Wilmington, North Carolina, 2025.
Group Exhibition: “Fragments of Hope”. Cowee School. Franklin, North Carolina, 2025.
Group Show (Juried): "Artfields 2025". Jones-Carter Gallery. Lake Field, South Carolina, 2025.
Group Exhibition: “Nest”. VCA Artspace. Melbourne, Australia. 2022.
Group Exhibition: “2021 Student Show”. LDM Gallery. Florence, Italy. 2021.
Group Exhibition: “Quarantine Exhibition”. Carolina Union Gallery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 2020.
Features
Multiple Features in Mergoat Magazine, Vol. 3, Issue 1. 2025.
Feature in “From the Holler to the Sea” anthology. Issue 1. 2025.
Feature in Superfroot Magazine, Issue 1. Pages 88-89. 2021.
Feature in Ogma Magazine. Digital publication. November 2020.
Vogue Online feature of original garments and set photographed by Tristan Brown, 2019.
Awards
Teravarna Talent Prize in international juried “Color 6” painting competition, 2023.
Jonathan E Sharpe Scholarship from the UNC undergraduate studio art awards, 2019.
Sculpture Garden Phase I Commission Honorariums from the UNC undergraduate studio art awards, 2019.