This school is a class act…read more I learned more here in a year than they taught my friend with a "Masters" degree in art from her fancy pants art college (diploma mill) she was at for several years. Post graduation (and six figure student load debt) she still can't draw hands. But this place had me off and running in the first two weeks. The teachers were divine. Especially Tim. Not just as artists who truly believed in the methods they learned here and taught, but as human beings who appeared to take individual interest in every student, young or old. Years later, I still look back on these classes with fondness and am considering taking them again along with a new friend who wants to learn basic drawing skills, and maybe even progress to painting. If you stick with the curriculum, you will learn. Practice, and you might be shocked at how quickly you progress. Our class was a short walk from a coffee shop, and quickly became a little group who all looked forward to every class. I miss that enough I am thinking of going back. I felt like I was "getting" the material taught here after about two weeks, but I recommend the Free Class to see if it's for you, and if you like it, at least 4 weeks after that to really have a feel for it. At least that's what it took for me. But after that, I was all in. Like any skill worth having, it takes patience and practice over time. But it's totally worth it! People who can manage to respect class schedules, practice self-discipline and are eager to learn will enjoy this stimulating environment, the teaching methods, the skilled staff, and most likely take joy in their progress over time. Maybe even make new friends here. Maybe even fall in love with it. But entitled parents or choosing beggars who want refunds on FREE classes will probably not enjoy the full benefits or learning experience as they appear to have difficulty getting along with just about everyone based their other reviews. Consider the source before you let it dampen your own enthusiasm for the chance to take pride in your art or that of your child.

My child has been studying art at the Studio City location for more than 3 years and it's been a…read moreterrific overall experience. We have worked with Ms. Bryce and under her marvelous instruction my child is now painting masterpieces in advanced oils. My child enjoys the supportive instruction and the ability to chat with new friends who share a common interest in art. The studio is flexible in offering make up classes and different days and times to fit into my child's schedule. The individual attention my kid gets really helps her improve her skills and knowledge. It's always been rewarding to see my child progress from basic drawings to watercolors and now oils. My child attended the art camp for two summers and she loved it. The students always have fun at the art show at the end of class. My child is very proud of her art work, and I am so happy that we found Mission Renaissance!

Patti is an amazing art teacher and a very kind and patient person who will help you every set of…read morethe way with your art

We have taken at least two lessons from renown encaustic artist, Patti Akesson at Canyon Arts…read moreStudio. Patti Is warm, engaging, supportive, encouraging and really allows the artist to explore new methods and techniques of encaustic work. The prices are amazingly reasonable for what we have learned from her. She is an excellent teacher who explains all concepts thoroughly. And Lucy (Are faithful four legged art studio companion) is ADORABLE. Canyon arts studio also offers group lessons at really reasonable prices.

Michelle is an amazing acting coach. She has helped me break through many walls in my work and…read morealways does it with such compassion and insight. I couldn't ask for a more supportive coach! She is the best!

I love Michelle! I have worked with her for years and she knows her stuff…read more She never makes you feel bad about your work, she only helps you get there. She's really sweet and has a positive attitude. She understands a scene, I love it! Really opens you up and allows you to play.

21/100 I didn't know…read morewhat to expect when walking into the Animation Academy, but after a half hour lesson in how to draw a Disney character, I walked out with a pretty good rendition of Tigger drawn by my own, two little hands. I'm not an artist, but the instructor made drawing so easy that anyone can do it. They take you through step by step, using basic shapes and strokes like triangles and circles, and make it all so easy. I can't wait to go back again to see who I get to draw next.

I wish I knew about the Animation Academy earlier! It is literally a hidden gem for all the…read morewannabe artists out there like me. I came across this place on my most recent visit to Disneyland/California Adventure over Thanksgiving break. Since the lines for all the rides were horrendous, my boyfriend and I tried some new things in the parks that were not rides. The Animation Academy was the highlight of the trip. There are "shows" every half hour where you sit inside a mini lecture hall and learn to draw Disney characters. There is a Disney animator who walks you through each step so that you come out with a picture that actually looks pretty good! Things move pretty fast so make sure you keep up with the animator and pay attention. Things can go from simple circles to eyelashes really quickly so here are a few things to keep in mind so that you don't seem so flustered during your first visit to the Academy. 1. Get there at least 10 minutes early so that you are guaranteed a seat. People start to line up. 2. When you choose your row, move down all the way to the end of the row and don't leave spaces between you and the next party. They don't have cooties. But most of all, don't be annoying and stop in the middle so that people have to climb over you. You can see everything from the right or left sides, trust me. 3. Follow along with the animator and don't freak if you make a mistake. Erasers are not allowed. If you come to the Animation Academy and follow along, you will honestly surprise yourself with what you can create! We went three times and drew Tigger, Mickey, and Dale. You can ask the guy at the front to see which characters are coming up so that you can plan your visits around their lesson plans! It is basically a free drawing lesson that can be just as fun for adults as it is for the kids. Actually maybe even more fun for adults.

I've studied with some of the best artists and illustrators working in the L.A. area here--the ones…read morewho teach as well as make art, that is. Most of them do workshops and classes here, in the great facilities. LAAFA is a great resource, and you meet many fellow working professionals in classes here too. Check it out if you are in one of the Iatse Locals, maybe you get a deal! I only wish in wasn't so far from me. I live in actual Los Angeles. Smile.

If you want to pursue a career in the arts, where you learn the ways of the old masters, and by…read morethat I mean learning how to REALLY draw, how to REALLY paint, how to REALLY sculpt then LAFFA is the school for you. No school now days will teach you how to draw and paint like Rembrant, Bougerou, Ingres, In fact many art schools now days do not teach you the most important concept of drawing and that is that in art learning is life long it does not end with a degree. LAFFA emphasizes that. Furthermore many art schools focus simply on art being just paint splattered on a canvas or some weird as hell sculpture that sells for millions and where the "artist" i.e. like KOONs and Andy Warhol do not even do any work at all. LAFFA is very much like how people back in the ECOLE Beux arts were taught, or how those in the high renaissance were taught, in the atelier style, by the end of one class you will have learned how to truly draw which is the basis of all art! The accreditation, accreditation is a good thing, however it will not mean you will magically teach you how to draw and paint, much like some assume a degree means. no a true artist has YEARS of practice and does not stop because a true artist knows that to be able to truly know that they are good at something, they must remember they always know nothing like the renowned cellist Pablo Casalas once said when he was asked at 93 why he still practiced the cello 3hours a day" i think i am finally improving" that is what you will see here TRUE MASTERS of the lost art of drawing and painting, modern day Bougerou's, Rembrants, Franz Hals, Titian, Ingress etc. Who embody the true spirit of the lost arts which many so called art schools sans Cal Arts and 3 kicks do not teach today. One teacher i highly recommend taking is Rey Bustos, he is harsh, he is firm but his passion will drive you. He is truly an amazing instructor.

First of all, without saying a thing about the program, Pam & John are the best. Two of the kindest…read morepeople I have ever worked with. My son has taken several creative classes at Village Arts and he has loved them. He has learned so much in so many different avenues/disciplines. All of his instructors have been wonderful. Highly recommended!

From the owner: Village Arts is a non-profit with the mission to provide superior arts programs in theatre, dance,…read moremovement, singing, acting, comedy/improv as well as classes in the visual and media arts. We are located in Valley Village/North Hollywood area in Los Angeles. We offer classes to pre-schoolers all the way up to middle school students. Our programs run year round and in summer we offer a five week theatre camp where a fully produced musical is performed in addition to having classes in dance, improv, singing and the visual arts. Our programs is open to any child that is interested in exploring performance and visual arts. We believe that the arts provide a unique learning experience and we want every child to find confidence and value through the work they take on at our programs. Village Arts also looks to promote the community of North Hollywood and the Valley. Our motto is that Village Arts is a place for everyone. Village Arts offer scholarships and financial aid to students t