Adult Programs

At Princeton Academy of Art, our full-time program is deeply rooted in the classical tradition, drawing inspiration from the Russian academic tradition and the influential curricula of the Italian and French Academies.

Students learn to begin working with an underpainting in earth tones to establish values and structure, followed by the gradual application of glazes to build depth and vibrancy, as well as direct painting methods. Inspired by the techniques of Rubens and Van Dyck, the curriculum teaches students to layer translucent and opaque pigments strategically, creating luminous effects that define form and atmosphere. Particular attention is given to the use of sfumato for soft transitions and chiaroscuro for dramatic contrasts, enabling students to achieve a compelling sense of realism and dynamic lighting.

These techniques are paired with the study of constructive drawing, a cornerstone of representational art. Students develop a strong foundation by deconstructing complex forms into simple geometric shapes and mastering proportion, perspective, and anatomical accuracy. This approach allows artists to create advanced compositions with precision and accuracy.

The full-time program integrates this rigorous technical training with a rich engagement in art history, mythology, and theory, offering a holistic approach to the study of art. Students not only refine their skills but also develop the critical understanding needed to create meaningful, contemporary work. Princeton Academy of Art serves as a bridge to classical knowledge, providing unparalleled resources to support students in their artistic pursuits.

Designed for those committed to intensive study, the full-time program attracts a diverse community of artists, including classical fine artists, architects, recent high school graduates, and more. These students share a dedication to advancing their craft and discovering new philosophies on art and the world around them, cultivating an environment of mutual growth and inspiration.

FULL-TIME TUITION: $12,500.00

General:

• No additional model fees
• Discount on visiting artist workshops
• Opportunity to participate in group shows both at the Academy, off-site galleries, and invitation-only exhibition sites
• Networking opportunities with gallerists, collectors, museum curators, and world-renowned artists.

Additional Benefits for Full-Time Students Only:

• Access to Princeton University’s Marquand Library. PAA will arrange for a guest library card to be made. This $300+ value is included in your tuition price. *COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. We will keep full-time students updated on the level of access allowed during the pandemic.
• Night class access (an $8,000.00 value) is included at no additional charge.
• Select access to pre-recorded materials. Materials available will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the Director and Operations Manager.

Returning students MUST request their registration forms each year via email… “enrollment@princetonacademyofart.com”

Admissions Process (full-time program) – Rolling

Applications for the 2023-2024 academic year full-time program are accepted year-round though we advise you to apply by May 15th of the current year to ensure enough time to process your application.

Part-time students are not required to submit an application but are encouraged to do so in order to provide the Academy with more information about themselves and their goals as artists.

Application Request & Submission

Please contact us directly at ” enrollment@princetonacademyofart.com ” to request your online application link.

We do not offer or accept mail-in applications.

What to Expect Within the Application

• General Information
• Statement of Intent
• 2 Letters of Recommendation (one by a previous fine art teacher and one by an additional teacher, colleague, friend, or family member.)

• • *Recommenders must email their letters directly to “enrollment@princetonacademyofart.com”. DO NOT upload letters of recommendation within your application. Please follow the instructions below. Within your application, please upload two separate .pdf OR .docx files with the following information about your recommender. One file PER recommender:

• • • FULL NAME
    • COMPANY/INSTITUTION
    • POSITION
    • ADDRESS
    • PHONE NUMBER
    • EMAIL ADDRESS
    • TEACHING EXPERIENCE IN REGARDS TO STUDENT/RELATIONSHIP TO STUDENT

• A minimum of 10-15 images of works of art you’ve created that include both drawing and painting (oil or gouache), preferably displaying your understanding of still life (and/or cast drawing), figurative subjects, and landscape.
• *OPTIONAL: A minute-long introductory video shared with ” enrollment@princetonacademyofart.com” via YouTube or Vimeo link.

Notification of Submission, Processing Time & Scheduled Interview

When you have submitted your application, please notify “enrollment@princetonacademyofart.com” by email. Prior to acceptance, you will be required to schedule an introductory interview with the Operations Manager or Executive Director.

Acceptance & Admission to PAA

After you receive official acceptance based on your application materials, PAA will send all necessary registration information to you via the digital form to the email address you provide. Upon completing this form, a non-refundable deposit for the upcoming year will be required to finalize the admissions process (details will be shared with you during your interview).

Please give yourself ample time to secure housing in Princeton. Princeton Academy of Art is not responsible for assigning housing to incoming students.

Princeton Academy of Art presents flexible part-time study options, catering to individuals with intricate weekly schedules. We acknowledge that students commence their journeys at various life stages, and not all can embrace our full-time study opportunity.

Our part-time alternatives enable students to concentrate on one or multiple areas of study throughout a semester or a year. Numerous combinations are available, tailored to accommodate busy schedules.

Part-time signifies any study frequency less than five days per week, such as:

• Enrolling in Monday’s Portrait Painting and Composition Course
• Enrolling in Monday’s Portrait Painting and Composition Course & Wednesday’s Cast Drawing Course
• Enrolling in Monday’s Portrait Painting and Composition Course, Thursday’s Figure Drawing Course, and Friday’s Sculpture Course

Part-Time Day Courses (10:30 am – 5:00 pm):

Online availability – course restrictions apply.

Part-Time Night Courses (Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm):

Night classes offer a shorter time commitment while maintaining the profound curricula found in PAA’s day courses. All night classes commence at 7:00 pm. Tuesday Night Class focuses on Drawing, and Wednesday Night Class focuses on Painting.

Prospective part-time and night students should email enrollment@princetonacademyofart.com to enroll.

Visiting Artist Workshops:

Online Available

Another option for those who do not have the time for full commitment is to participate in our various visiting artist workshops. We bring the highest level of instruction possible to not only our full time and part time students, but also those who attend workshops. By inviting artists nationally and internationally known, we provide a unique opportunity to study with a diverse group of masters in drawing, painting and sculpture whose instruction is otherwise unattainable.