The 5 Best Studios for Painting Classes in Winnipeg That Inspired Us to Pick Up a Brush
Every artist was first an amateur. I learned this the hard way in my first painting class.
My “serene landscape” ended up looking like a confused mix of colors with no sense of direction. I left thinking that abstract art must be chaos in disguise.
But after a few more attempts and discovering some amazing hubs around Winnipeg, I realized creating something with hues doesn’t have to be intimidating.
Whether you’re just starting out or want to enjoy brush-to-canvas moments without disaster, these painting classes will reignite your creative spark!
How much do painting classes cost in Winnipeg?
1. The WPG Art Factory
Website: http://www.thewpgartfactory.com/
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 1 pm – 9 pm
The WPG Art Factory isn’t your typical art class provider. Instead of a fixed studio, they run Paint Nite gatherings across Winnipeg at venues like Cineplex Junxion, Smitty’s, and local cafes.
We like that each workshop is led by an artist and offers simple, guided instruction, creating a relaxed, social setting that suits adults of all skill levels, especially beginners.
The variety of themes also stands out. Whether it’s landscapes, seasonal pieces, abstract designs, or venue-inspired projects, every option brings something different to the canvas.
Since every class is a standalone event, there’s no commitment to longer programs. You can simply choose the painting you want to create and book a ticket.
Pricing is clear as well, with most sessions ranging from $30 to $45 CAD, supplies included.
The only drawback is that scheduling can vary, since classes rely on venue availability.
Worried about starting our painting, but they made us feel comfortable.
“Me and my bestie had such a good time! First paint night ever and we brought home amazing pictures. We plan to go again next week for sure and the week after maybe? 😊 we were worried about even starting our painting but they made us feel comfortable and we had fun! …”
– Christina Courcelles, Google Review
Our instructor is so patient and helpful.
“I recently attended the Paint Your Pet night and I had so much fun! Teaching everyone to paint a different photo is hard and I commend our instructor for being so patient and helpful. Will definitely go to other events again!”
– Jian Serame, Google Review
2. Forum Art Center
Address: 120 Eugenie St
Website: http://www.forumartcentre.com/
Phone: +1-204-235-1069
Business hours:
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 10 am – 4 pm
Since 1964, the Forum Art Center has been a cornerstone of Winnipeg’s art community for nearly 60 years.
Each season, they roll out a selection of 10-week courses covering painting, drawing, clay, and more. These programs give students the freedom to explore new media or develop existing skills.
The classes are led by professional artists and educators whose experience in the fine arts brings both skill and inspiration to the studio.
We like that their courses are designed for all ages, from children and preteens to teens and adults, with weekly meetings lasting 2-2.5 hours.
Beyond the main curriculum, they also offer workshops, open studio sessions, and exhibitions, giving participants opportunities to refine their techniques and showcase their work.
Enrollment is straightforward, with fees clearly listed online, by phone, or in person. Just a heads up: the 10-week format requires a longer commitment compared with single-event activities.
She said it is fun and that it doesn’t feel like she is at school!.
“A place that fosters creativity and inclusion.
A wide variety of classes for all ages.
My child really loved the easy going atmosphere. She said it is fun and that it doesn’t feel like she is at school! Lol”
- Marielle Summerton, Google Review
I’ve learned something significant and been happy with the outcome.
“I’ve taken several evening art courses here in a range of mediums and with a range of instructors varying from new to very experienced teachers. Every course I’ve learned something significant and been happy with the outcome. It helps to look up the artist’s work online to see if you connect with the style. The very experienced instructors have a lot to pass on! However each teacher has something to pass on whether a technical skill, or something personal like developing your confidence in yourself and freedom to make “mistakes” … there’s always a solution in art!! I’m very grateful for this center and highly recommend.”
- Mary F., Google Review
3. Crock A Doodle Winnipeg-Kenaston
Address: 1765 Kenaston Blvd
Website: https://crockadoodle.com/winnipeg-kenaston
Phone: +1-204-488-7665
Business hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 10 am – 8 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm
Crock A Doodle is a pottery studio that lets you create your own ceramic pieces at a relaxed pace, with options ranging from mugs and plates to figurines and seasonal shapes.
Each visit is flexible—you can drop in anytime, though booking ahead is smart if you’re coming with a group.
The staff is often praised for being warm and encouraging. Their expertise shines in how they guide participants through each step, from layout planning to understanding how the glazing will bring colors to life.
Sessions run about 90 minutes to two hours, which is usually enough for casual painters, though intricate patterns may feel a bit rushed.
We also appreciate their all-inclusive pricing. Your payment already covers paints, supplies, glazing, and kiln firing, with rates varying depending on what you decide to decorate.
Painted a cute little mushroom house mug and had a nice time.
“Lovely place for you to spend some time with family/friends. Came for a mother-daughter date with my little for mother’s Day. Painted a cute little mushroom house mug (they have lots of things to choose from!) and had a nice time. Staff are very friendly!
During busy times, be sure to book a reservation as they fill up quick and there’s a fairly strict 90-min paint time if you’re going when it’s busy. Otherwise, you might be able to stay longer if you go when it’s slower (ie. Weekday during the day) 🥰”
- Mel Lau, Google Review
Many ceramic options to choose from, and lots of paint colors as well.
“Wow, what a cool place! There are many ceramic options to choose from, and lots of paint colours as well. Even though time flew by, we had enough time to finish our painting. You have to wait about a week to pick up your finished ceramic as it has to be glazed and go in the kiln. Great place for an evening out with friends!”
- Rebecca, Google Review
4. Artists Emporium
Address: 580 Roseberry St
Website: https://www.artistsemporium.net/
Phone: +1-204-772-2421
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Artists Emporium is one of the city’s largest and most established art supply stores, known for its extensive product selection, custom framing services, and creative learning opportunities.
Instead of functioning solely as a retail shop, it also serves as a learning hub.
Their studio-style classroom provides a hands-on environment where learners can experiment, explore, and discover new techniques under the guidance of experienced artists.
The workshops cover a variety of mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, and oil, with each session designed to be concise and approachable.
Their fees are also clearly listed during sign-up—whether online or in person—and prices vary by medium and duration. Many programs include materials or offer special discounts on supplies, adding extra value for learners.
Just keep in mind that slots often fill quickly, so early registration is recommended, especially during peak creative months.
The staff are not only helpful but genuinely passionate about art.
“Artist Emporium feels like stepping into a world of creativity and color. The shelves are filled with inspiration — from paints and brushes to sketchbooks and specialty tools. The staff are not only helpful but genuinely passionate about art, which makes every visit a joy. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this place has a magical way of sparking new ideas. A must-visit for anyone who loves to create.”
- Reza Taghavee, Google Review
I have deeply appreciated all the workshops I have attended at Artists Emporium.
“I have deeply appreciated all the workshops I have attended at Artist’s Emporium. Lately I have participated in several landscape painting workshops with local artist, Vern Schwarz. Students can choose to paint with oil or water based oils. Vern is an excellent teacher who describes and demonstrates the importance of colour and values, establishing lights and darks while paying close attention to shape and composition. After an initial demonstration, the class begins their own painting as Vern comes alongside with helpful suggestions and genuine encouragement. I highly recommend Vern’s classes.”
- Brian Larmour, Google Review
5. Cartizan Studio
Address: Johnston Terminal, 25 Forks Market Rd #115
Website: https://www.cartizanstudio.ca/
Phone: +1-431-997-2278
Business hours:
- Monday: 11 am – 7:30 pm
- Tuesday: 9 am – 7:30 pm
- Wednesday: 11 am – 8 pm
- Thursday: 11 am – 8:30 pm
- Friday: 1 pm – 8 pm
- Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Sunday: 1 pm – 6:30 pm
Cartizan Studio is a fresh, new art space offering opportunities for all ages. They run 10-week courses for kids and teens, along with a variety of workshops and short series for adults.
We were impressed by how approachable the classes felt. The instructors use interactive, easy-to-follow teaching methods that make craft accessible for beginners and advanced participants alike.
Young artists (ages 4-17) can immerse themselves in structured, multi-week projects, while grown-ups explore painting and other mediums through shorter, flexible sessions.
Beyond regular lessons, the hub hosts “mom-and-me” programs and homeschool-friendly options, encouraging family participation.
For individual learners, they present a spectrum of artistic styles—classic canvas work, manga-inspired creations, and ancient art techniques—so every project feels exciting and challenging.
With clear pricing, included supplies, and no hidden fees, the Cartizan Studio provides transparency and ease, though, as a newer facility, its reputation is still growing.
Kristen knows her stuff, and she makes classes FUN!
“I joined the Brunch and Brush class. As a business owner, I LOVE that there is something available during the day when my kids are at school so I don’t have to take away from valuable family time in the evening. Kristen knows her stuff and she makes classes FUN!”
- H. M., Google Review
Cartizan offers such a great variety of courses and workshops.
“Cartizan Studio is exactly what Winnipeg has been needing! A warm, creative space in the heart of the city for kids and adults to make art! Cartizan offers such a great variety of courses and workshops and all of the instructors are talented and inspiring!”
- Karla Havelka, Google Review