Course General Description

The Illustration program connects PAFA’s strong fine arts traditions with a focus on empowering students to succeed as both creators and entrepreneurs. Illustration students develop skills in storytelling, visual communication, and entrepreneurship. Their training includes building strong foundational skills in drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking—a core PAFA philosophy that has launched generations of PAFA artists and illustrators from Maxfield Parrish and Violet Oakley, to Don Martin and Kate Samworth. This dynamic program also connects students to established illustration professionals through lectures, hands-on critiques, demonstrations, and workshops.

School General Description

As the first art museum and school in the United States, PAFA celebrates the transformative power of art and art-making. PAFA inspires the public by expanding the stories of American art through its collections, exhibitions, and programs; and educates artists from around the world to be innovative makers and critical thinkers with a deep understanding of traditions and the ability to challenge conventions. Through its world-class museum and school, PAFA nurtures and recognizes artists at every turn in their career.