Best Art Schools in Illinois

With over 115 years of history, Palette & Chisel Art Academy offers fine art classes and studio space in a historic mansion featuring galleries, studios, and a courtyard. The team supports artists ranging from beginners to illustrators, though some newcomers find initial orientation and materials guidance a bit unclear.

Focused exclusively on mosaic arts, this non-profit school offers hands-on and academic courses that explore both traditional and contemporary techniques. Students and artists can engage in everything from small projects to large-scale installations, with classes praised for their informative, supportive atmosphere. Some find the allotted time for beginners a bit short.

Chicago High School for the Arts focuses on nurturing diverse, artistically promising students through intensive arts training combined with college preparation. The school offers programs in visual arts and performing arts, welcoming students of varying experience levels. Families appreciate the supportive environment and strong creative community, though some note the absence of traditional… more...

Chicago High School for the Arts focuses on nurturing diverse, artistically promising students through intensive arts training combined with college preparation. The school offers programs in visual arts and performing arts, welcoming students of varying experience levels. Families appreciate the supportive environment and strong creative community, though some note the absence of traditional sports programs.

Franklin Fine Arts Center offers a Visual Arts curriculum that encourages students to explore art history and express their views through various media. The program fosters critical discussions and creative responses, helping students develop strong analytical skills. Visitors find it a welcoming place, though some note occasional challenges with rule enforcement.

Vagabond School of the Arts focuses on on-camera acting and theatre training for all ages, emphasizing a supportive, inclusive community. Classes range from youth improv to specialized scene study, with instructors who are working actors. Students appreciate the personalized coaching and welcoming atmosphere, though some have noted occasional changes in teaching staff.

Chicago Academy for the Arts offers a distinctive blend of rigorous college preparatory academics and professional-level training in performing and visual arts. Students spend part of their day in focused academic classes and the rest honing their craft in their chosen arts discipline. While the environment is intimate and supportive, some find the independent work time less structured.

Lionel Hampton Fine & Performing Arts School focuses on fostering creativity and critical thinking in children while supporting students facing housing instability through various assistance programs. The school offers a range of arts and academic activities, though some families have expressed concerns about staff responsiveness and the school environment.

One of the oldest accredited independent art schools in the country, this institution offers undergraduate through post-baccalaureate programs with an interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration across various media. Students benefit from extensive resources like the Modern Wing and the Gene Siskel Film Center while engaging with Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene. Some find the… more...

One of the oldest accredited independent art schools in the country, this institution offers undergraduate through post-baccalaureate programs with an interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration across various media. Students benefit from extensive resources like the Modern Wing and the Gene Siskel Film Center while engaging with Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene. Some find the community challenging, but many appreciate the creative opportunities and unique events such as the student-run restaurant.

Avalon Park Fine & Performing Arts School focuses on educating students through rigorous, standards-based instruction that supports diverse learners in math, literacy, and science. The school aims to foster critical thinking and respect for self and community while maintaining an environment where education is valued. Some parents have concerns about discipline and food quality.