Watts Atelier

Watts Atelier offers in-person classes and Watts Atelier Online. In-person classes include life drawing and painting, and specialized classes cover color, composition, and anatomy. The online program includes drawing, painting, and portfolio development, with written critiques on submitted work.

Programs

• In-person classes — At least 18 years of age · 5-week terms; 6 different terms throughout the year · $375 per class · Classes are run at the school in Encinitas, California. Most classes revolve around life drawing and painting; specialized classes cover color, composition, anatomy, and more.
• Watts Atelier Online — At least 18 years of age · Self-paced; pre-recorded demos · Subscription-based online program with written critiques on submitted work. Core areas include drawing, painting, and portfolio development.
• JumpStart classes — At least 18 years of age · Access for 7 weeks · $49 · Single-purchase classes that serve as an introduction to the program.

At a glance

• Ages: 18 years old
• Price range: $49–$375
• General schedule: In-person classes run in 5-week terms, with 6 different terms running throughout the year.

About the provider

Watts Atelier was founded in 1992. Jeff Watts is the founder and lead instructor, and the school is accredited by the Art Renewal Center since 1994. The school has been internationally acclaimed by both institutions and artists since its inception.

Any student can join any class, online or in person. No applications required. Only requirement is that a student is at least 18 years of age. In-person classes are $375 for a 5 week class. The school does not accept the GI Bill for in-person classes, but offers a discount to veterans for both online and in-person programs.

What families say

“Jeff’s clear demos, structured lessons, and direct critiques helped me grow as a draftsman and painter. The fundamentals I learned there are still the backbone of what I teach on Proko today.” — Stan Prokopenko, Founder Proko - Former Watts Atelier Instructor

“Watts Atelier allowed me, mid-career, to get all those foundational art skills that I completely missed out on.” — Jeremy Cranford, Art Director - WotC - Blizzard - Second Dinner

“I look back on my time taking classes at the Watts Atelier with both fondness and gratitude. I learned and reinforced fundamentals that I apply to the various styles I work with in my animation career.” — Katie Silva, Character Designer - Netflix Castlevania

Last updated October 9, 2026.