PRIVATE ART Experiences

Thoughtful instruction. Real studio time. Built around the artist.

MAKEart offers private lessons, small-group classes, and creative workshops led by a professional artist and experienced art educator in a home-based Downers Grove studio.

Unlike a traditional class with a predetermined curriculum, private art experiences begin with the artists themselves. Their interests, abilities, and goals help shape what we study, the materials we explore, and the projects we pursue. Whether working individually or as a group, we'll develop an experience together that balances thoughtful instruction, skill-building, and room for personal creativity.

There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Together, we'll find the right fit.

Three Ways to MAKEart

Private Lesson

What Can We Explore?

Private instruction can include observational drawing, perspective, portraiture, painting and color, sculpture, mixed media, sketchbook development, portfolio preparation, and independent projects.

Students don't need to arrive knowing exactly what they want to study. I'm happy to help identify areas for growth and develop a progression of lessons from there. Standard drawing and studio materials are included. Specialized materials or larger-scale projects may require an additional supply fee, which will always be discussed in advance.

60-minute individual lesson · $100

For younger artists or students working on a focused skill, 30-minute individual lessons · $60 may also be available.

Semi-private instruction may be available for two artists who share an interest in learning together. Lessons are designed around both students' interests and goals, so this option works best when both artists are excited to participate ·

60-minute semi-private lesson (two artists) · $180 total

Private Lesson Series

For students interested in building skills over time, developing a portfolio, or working through a longer sequence of study, a four-lesson series is available.

Four 60-minute private lessons · $350/person

Lessons may be scheduled based on studio availability and must be used within eight weeks of the first lesson. Payment is due in full, in cash, at the first lesson.

Private Studio Cohort

What Can We Create?

Private Studio Cohorts bring together a small group of artists for a multi-week series built around a shared interest. From watercolor and drawing to painting, printmaking, and mixed media, each series combines thoughtful instruction, skill-building, and opportunities for individual creative expression.

Cohorts are a great fit for groups of friends, siblings, homeschool families, or adults who want to learn together. Projects and instruction can be adapted to the group's ages, experience levels, and interests.

Four 60-minute classes · $120 per artist (8–12 artists)

Four 60-minute classes · $140 per artist (6–7 artists)

Standard drawing and studio materials are included. Specialized materials or larger-scale projects may require an additional supply fee. Any additional costs will always be discussed in advance.

One person serves as the group organizer, helping coordinate participants and scheduling. Once the group is established, I'll work with you to develop a series suited to the artists' interests and experience levels. Payment is due in full, in cash, before the first class.

Private Workshop

What Can We Make?

Private workshops offer an opportunity to gather a group of friends, fellow artists, or community members for a hands-on creative experience. Perfect for adults looking to try something new, homeschool groups, or anyone interested in learning a particular art form together.

Choose from a selection of established MAKEart workshops, including watercolor painting, brush lettering, printmaking, and mixed media. Each workshop introduces new skills and techniques through a shared project, with quality materials, thoughtful instruction, and room for individual creativity. No previous art experience is necessary.

Private workshops start at $300 per hour, plus materials.

Workshops typically accommodate 3–10 artists, with groups of up to 12 possible depending on the activity and participants' ages.

Most workshops run between one and three hours, depending on the project. Final pricing is based on group size, duration, and materials, with all costs discussed in advance.

Scheduling & Booking

Private workshops are scheduled by appointment, subject to studio availability.

Groups are organized by the participants, with one person serving as the primary contact for scheduling and coordination.

If you have a particular workshop in mind, or would like to learn more about the options available, feel free to reach out with your group's approximate size, ages, interests, and preferred dates. I'm happy to help find a workshop that's a good fit.

The goal isn't to teach students what to make. It's to give them the skills, experience, and confidence to make more of what they imagine.

Let's MAKEart.

Interested in private lessons, gathering a group for a Studio Cohort, or arranging a workshop? Send me a little information about the artists, their ages, interests, and experience (if any), along with what you're hoping to explore and your general availability.

Not quite sure what you're looking for yet? That's completely fine. We can figure that out together.

Scheduling + Cancellations

Private lessons are scheduled by appointment and subject to studio availability.

Because lesson times are reserved specifically for individual students, at least 24 hours' notice is required to cancel or reschedule. Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours' notice, as well as missed appointments, are charged at the full lesson rate. Scheduling and cancellation terms for private groups are provided when booking.

I understand that illness and genuine emergencies happen and will always use reasonable discretion when they do.

Private lessons, cohorts, and workshops are paid in cash before or at the time of the appointment.

Email makeartstudios@gmail.com to talk about your artist or group and current scheduling possibilities.