With the proliferation of online learning platforms, artists at all levels can now access high-quality drawing instruction from anywhere in the world. But with thousands of courses available, it can be challenging to determine which ones are truly worth your time and investment.
In this comprehensive guide, we've evaluated dozens of online drawing courses based on instructor expertise, curriculum quality, student reviews, and value for money. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned artist looking to refine your digital drawing skills, our curated selection has something for everyone.
How We Evaluated These Courses
Learning digital art through structured online instruction
Before diving into our recommendations, let's clarify the criteria we used to evaluate these courses:
- Instructor Credentials - Do they have professional experience and demonstrated teaching ability?
- Curriculum Structure - Is the content well-organized with a logical progression?
- Production Quality - Are videos clear, with good audio and visual demonstrations?
- Student Support - Is there feedback, community interaction, or additional resources?
- Value for Money - Does the course provide good return on investment compared to alternatives?
- Student Results - What do graduates of the course actually accomplish?
Best Courses for Beginners
If you're just starting your artistic journey, these courses provide solid foundations without overwhelming you:
| Course | Platform | Duration | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Ultimate Drawing Course | Udemy | 25 hours | $15-90 | Complete beginners wanting comprehensive basics |
| Drawing Essentials | Skillshare | 10 hours | Subscription | Quick introduction to fundamental techniques |
| Drawing and Sketching for Beginners | Domestika | 15 hours | $10-40 | Creative approach to learning basics |
| Fundamentals of Digital Drawing | LinkedIn Learning | 8 hours | Subscription | Beginners wanting to start directly with digital tools |
Spotlight: The Ultimate Drawing Course
This course stands out for beginners due to its methodical approach, starting with basic line work and gradually introducing concepts like perspective, shading, and composition. The instructor breaks down complex techniques into manageable steps, making it accessible even for those who believe they have no natural talent.
Key benefits include:
- Progressive exercises that build confidence
- Clear explanations of why techniques work, not just how to perform them
- Regular practice assignments with examples of student work
- Sections dedicated to common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them
Intermediate Digital Drawing Courses
For those who already understand the basics but want to develop their digital drawing skills further:
Intermediate digital drawing techniques in action
| Course | Platform | Duration | Price Range | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Illustration: Procreate Masterclass | Domestika | 18 hours | $12-50 | iPad illustration techniques |
| Digital Painting in Photoshop | Udemy | 22 hours | $15-100 | Photo-realistic digital painting |
| Character Design for Animation | Schoolism | 12 weeks | $300-500 | Industry-standard character creation |
| Environment Concept Art | CGMA | 8 weeks | $600-800 | Professional environment design |
Spotlight: Digital Illustration: Procreate Masterclass
This course has become the gold standard for iPad artists looking to master Procreate. The instructor covers both technical aspects of the software and artistic techniques that make the most of the platform's capabilities.
What makes this course exceptional:
- Deep dive into Procreate's unique features and workflow optimization
- Custom brush creation and sharing
- Animation and time-lapse creation techniques
- Integration with traditional art methods
- Practical projects that build a professional portfolio
Advanced Specialized Courses
For experienced artists looking to specialize or refine specific skills:
| Course | Platform | Duration | Price Range | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Realistic Portraiture in Digital Art | New Masters Academy | 20+ hours | $35/month | Digital portrait techniques |
| Concept Art for Video Games | Brainstorm School | 10 weeks | $900-1200 | Industry-specific concept art |
| Color Theory and Light for Digital Artists | Gumroad | Self-paced | $50-150 | Advanced color application |
| Digital Comic Creation Masterclass | Comics Experience | 6 weeks | $500-700 | Professional comic art production |
Professional-level instruction for specialized digital art
Spotlight: Concept Art for Video Games
This intensive course is taught by industry professionals currently working at major game studios. It stands out for its focus on both artistic excellence and the practical realities of working in the gaming industry.
Key strengths include:
- Direct feedback on assignments from working professionals
- Industry-standard workflows and tool usage
- Focus on both speed and quality - critical for professional environments
- Portfolio development specifically targeting game industry requirements
- Networking opportunities with instructors and fellow students
Free and Low-Cost Options
Quality education doesn't always require a significant financial investment. These free or affordable resources provide excellent value:
- Ctrl+Paint - A free digital painting library with hundreds of videos covering both traditional art fundamentals and digital techniques.
- Proko - Offers many free videos on figure drawing, anatomy, and portraiture, with premium courses available for more in-depth study.
- Draw a Box - A completely free, community-supported curriculum focused on developing fundamental drawing skills through structured exercises.
- YouTube Channels - Creators like Marc Brunet, Ahmed Aldoori, and Sinix Design offer high-quality tutorials without cost.
Specialized Platforms vs. General Learning Sites
When choosing where to learn, consider the differences between general learning platforms and art-specific sites:
| Platform Type | Advantages | Limitations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Learning (Udemy, Coursera) |
|
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Budget-conscious learners, beginners exploring interests |
| Art-Specific (Schoolism, CGMA) |
|
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Career-focused artists, serious hobbyists seeking professional-level skills |
| Subscription Services (Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning) |
|
|
Exploratory learners, those who consume content quickly |
Maximizing Your Learning Experience
Regardless of which course you choose, these strategies will help you get the most value from your investment:
- Create a Dedicated Schedule - Set aside specific times for learning and practice, treating it with the same commitment as a physical class.
- Actively Participate - Complete all exercises and assignments, even if they're optional. The real learning happens through application.
- Build a Portfolio as You Go - Document your progress and create finished pieces that demonstrate what you've learned.
- Join Communities - Engage with other students through course forums, Discord servers, or social media groups related to the course.
- Teach What You Learn - Explaining concepts to others (even in writing) reinforces your understanding and identifies knowledge gaps.
Creating an effective study environment enhances learning
Conclusion: Finding the Right Fit
The best online drawing course is ultimately the one that aligns with your specific goals, learning style, and commitment level. Consider these factors when making your choice:
- Are you learning for personal enjoyment or professional development?
- Do you prefer structured guidance or more self-directed exploration?
- How important is instructor feedback to your learning process?
- What specific skills or subject matter do you want to focus on?
- What is your available time commitment per week?
Remember that no single course will teach you everything. Many professional artists continuously take courses throughout their careers, building a personalized education from multiple sources. The courses recommended here provide excellent starting points, but your learning journey should be as unique as your artistic voice.
Have you taken any online drawing courses that you found particularly valuable? Share your experiences in the comments to help fellow artists find the right learning path!
