Every great artistic movement has had its gathering place.

Florence had its workshops, Paris had its salons, and now, Princeton has its Academy.

Princeton Academy of Art (PAA) is a premier classical art school that offers a rigorous and comprehensive education in the visual arts. Located in the heart of Princeton, New Jersey, the academy is the first of its kind situated in this renowned academic epicenter. It boasts a distinguished faculty of professional artists dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of creative talent at all ages and levels.

The academy’s curriculum is rooted in the classical tradition, strongly emphasizing constructive drawing, painting, and sculpture.

Students at the academy benefit from small class sizes, college-level learning, and a supportive community of fellow artists. Whether you are just starting your artistic journey or looking to refine your technical understanding of design, Princeton Academy of Art is an exceptional place to learn, grow, and thrive.

ACADEMICS

ADULT PROGRAMS

Princeton Academy of Art offers adult students a wide range of fine art courses in the disciplines of painting, drawing, and sculpture. Students can expect to be taught by experienced instructors who provide in-depth guidance in a museum-like setting.

At PAA, students immerse themselves in a balanced blend of creativity, innovation, and community.

Learn more about our adult program offerings below

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Cast Drawing

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Portrait Painting

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Princeton Academy of Art guides students at all stages of learning. Our program for children, PRECAD (ages 7-14) focuses on the fundamentals of drawing and painting through the classical tradition. Students learn about art history, the principles of composition, accurate proportions, shading, color theory, and more, all while fine-tuning their graphomotor skills. This course prepares them for upper-level PAA youth courses such as College Portfolio Preparation (ages 15+), where they work to develop a cohesive body of work that showcases their talent, creativity, and individuality.

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PRECAD Student (14)

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Portfolio Prep Student (Senior)

WORKSHOPS

PAA workshops are designed for students interested in developing their skills but may not have the time or availability to commit to a long-term program. Workshops range from 2 – 10 days and cover various classical and contemporary topics. View our workshops course catalog below to learn more or register today

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Plate Drawing Workshop

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Cast Drawing Workshop

REVIEWS FROM OUR COMMUNITY

  • Kate Faas
  • Eileen K-M
  • Irene
  • Jessica McConnell

"I studied here after school for many years and I absolutely loved it. The atmosphere is friendly and peaceful, with just the right amount of interaction with instructors and fellow students. Anyone interested in learning art can thrive here, regardless of level or background. "

Kate Faas
 

"I've been studying at Princeton Academy of Art for two years and have been amazed at the progress I've seen in my classmates' and my own artistic skills. The key difference between Princeton Academy of Art and other, more casual, art classes is that they teach us how to think as artists. If you've ever had the experience of creating a painting or drawing and thinking, "This doesn't work, but I don't know why," the Princeton Academy of Art could be the answer for you. Princeton Academy of Art teaches the foundational skills, strategies, and approaches that contemporary artists need to create compelling representational art. "

Eileen Kennedy-Moore

"My name is Irene Feng, an undergraduate student studying fashion management at Cornell University. Although I was exposed to art at a young age, Anna was truly the one who fostered my interest and gave me systematic training in both classical and contemporary art. Throughout the five years of knowing Anna, I found her to be warm and easy to talk to. In the art-making process, I would come up with an idea, and she would immediately understand and guide me to reflect it in my art. This was especially helpful when building my portfolio for college application – you would really need someone with who you connect and trust. I feel at ease when I am working in the studio. The atmosphere is different from other studios that I’ve been to. Something about the smell or the interior makes me want to just sit down and produce. I was surrounded by teachers who are masters in their own style and students ranging from kids to seniors who share the same passion for art as I do. Until today, I am still in contact with friends I made in the studio."

Irene Feng
Cornell University '24
“I’m an artist that was looking to attend a workshop or two at the academy. After a single workshop, I was hooked. The Russian academic approach that Princeton Academy of Art follows is so refreshing and lively. I learned how to analyze form from the inside out instead of only seeing form tonally. It was an eye-opening experience and I feel I can use what I’ve learned prior in conjunction with these new skills and really improve my work. I will definitely be back!”"Jessica McConnell

SELECTED WORKS

PAA STUDENT WORK GALLERY

Adult Programs

Fine art programs for beginner to advanced students. Full-time, Part-time & workshops.LEARN MORE »

Youth Programs

Pre-Academy (PRECAD), College Portfolio Preparation & Summer StudyLEARN MORE »

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

At Princeton Academy of Art, our mission extends beyond the classroom. In addition to providing rigorous classical art education, we are committed to giving back to the wider community and fostering meaningful connections with Princeton’s rich cultural history. Through partnerships, events, and educational initiatives, we aim to celebrate the arts as a vital thread in the fabric of our town and ensure that creativity remains accessible to all.

UPCOMING EVENTS

A Celebration of The American Semi-Quincentennial

In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This semi-quincentennial is a time to reflect on the nation’s founding principles and the events that shaped its early history. The greater Princeton area holds special significance in this story: the Battle of Princeton in 1777 was a turning point in the Revolutionary War, and the region fostered ideas and institutions central to the fight for independence. As we honor this milestone, Princeton Academy of Art seeks to connect our work to the rich historical legacy of our community and to the broader narrative of American history.

The Death of General Mercer at the Battle of Princeton, January 3, 1777, by John Trumbull On view at the Yale University Art Museum

Princeton Academy of Art Installations at Palmer Square

Princeton Academy of Art has participated in several temporary installations throughout Princeton, including displays in Palmer Square. Our next installation will highlight the history of General Hugh Mercer and his valiant efforts in securing the American victory at the Battle of Princeton.