Learning New Skills in the New Year

Posted by Victoria Rose on January 12, 2023

Chester County Art Association

Was one of your New Year resolutions to learn something new in 2023? Consider finding your passion for art with one of the many forums for artistic expression in the Brandywine Valley! Art centers, schools, workshops, and instructors are eager to share their talents with new and experienced artists. Listed below are just some of the local organizations with classes available. More are created daily, so keep an eye out on social media for updates!

The Chester County Art Association has been a focus of the local art scene since 1931. Known for their fantastic galleries and exhibitions, they also provide a comprehensive range of art classes, workshops, and events for students of all ages, experience, and ability. From fine art to sculpture, finger painting to digital art, jewelry making to ceramics, the options seem endless. The CCAA is located at 100 North Bradford Avenue, West Chester, PA. More information can be found at ChesterCountyArts.org.

Chester Springs Studio at Historic Yellow Springs

Chester Springs Studio is part of Historic Yellow Springs, and together they combine art and history in northern Chester County. With a wide-ranging and extensive pottery studio, perfect for learning simple slab building, wheel throwing, and everything in between, as well as studios for all types of artistic expression, the beautiful setting inspires artists of all ages. The Chester Springs Studio at Historic Yellow Springs is located at 1668 Art School Road, Chester Springs, PA. More information can be found at YellowSprings.org.

Since 1948, the Community Arts Center in Wallingford has created a space for artists and art lovers to come together and celebrate creativity. Set in a beautiful historic property, the inspiring environment brings new perspectives for artists at every turn. Drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, and other classes feature talented local artists sharing their skills with learners of all age and experience levels. The Community Arts Center is located at 414 Plush Mill Road, Wallingford, PA. More information can be found at CommunityArtsCenter.org.

“Every Art for Everyone” is the goal at the Darlington Arts Center. Founded in 1978 with the goal of bringing together all four art disciplines—music, visual arts, dance, and drama—the center celebrates creativity in all its forms. Classes are available for learners from toddlers through seniors, with options for every skill level. The Darlington Arts Center is at 977 Shavertown Road, Garnet Valley, PA. More information can be found at DarlingtonArts.org

Combining history and artistry, the Rockdale Art Center brings art education and a cultural center to Delaware County. Classes for young and adult learners are available all year, from anime to LEGO, acrylics to summer camps. The Rockdale Art Center is located at 2551 Mount Road, Aston, PA. More information can be found at RockdaleArtCenter.com.

One of the newer organizations dedicated to spreading art to the public, the Media Arts Council was established in 2006 to bring cultured life to the region. From an informal start to their new home in the MAC Arts Center which has space for galleries, classes, and more, it is a fantastic resource for artist and art lovers. The MAC Arts Center is located at 11 E. State Street, Media, PA. More information can be found at MediaArtsCouncil.org.

About Victoria Rose

Victoria Rose (she/her) is an editor, writer, avid reader, self-described geek, and fan of all things creative. Her passion for words has led to her current career as a freelance editor, and she is the owner of Flickering Words, an editing service. When not wielding a red pen (or cursor), she loves reading books of all genres, playing video, board, and word games, baking ridiculous creations to show off on the internet, or enjoying the gorgeous outdoors. She is a board member of the West Chester Film Festival and part of the Thirsty Monsters, a team of streamers from around the world who fundraise for various charities supporting LGBTQIA+ and accessibility rights. She can be found online @WordsFlickering or the Brandywine Art Guide @BrandywineArtGuide.