Long Island Academy of Fine Art

Long Island Academy of Fine Art offers the Little Artist Program, where students in grades K–2 explore color and materials in playful projects. It also offers the Young Artist Program, with classes in drawing, painting, and sculpture taught by professional artists. For teens, the Portfolio Development Program teaches observational skills using classical techniques.

Programs

• Little Artist Program — grades K–2 · Students explore color and materials in playful projects.
• Young Artist Program — grades 2–7 · Classes in drawing, painting, and sculpture are taught by professional artists.
• Young Artist Program — grades 3–7 · Classes in drawing, painting, and sculpture are taught by professional artists.
• Portfolio Development Program — teens · Trains teens to acquire key observational skills, using time-honored classical techniques.
• Art for Little Artists — grades K-2 · Sat, 9:00-10:00 AM · $365 per session · Fall $365 (9 wks), includes materials.
• Young Artist Drawing & Painting — grades 5-7 · Sun, 1:15-3:15 PM · $725 per session · Fall $725 (12 wks).
• Younger Artist Drawing & Painting — grades 2-4 · Sun, 3:30-4:30 PM · $425 per session · Fall $425 (12 wks).
• Drawing | Painting | Digital: Portfolio Development for Teens — teens · Sun, 10:00-1:00 PM · $845 per session · Fall $845 (12 wks).

At a glance

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Price range: $365–$845 per session
• Current session: Fall Session (Sep 14–Dec 17, 2026)
• General schedule: Classes run year-round, seven days a week.

About the provider

The school says it unofficially started in 1999 and officially became LIAFA in 2000. Steve and Rebecca Forster are named as Directors of Fine Art. Its mission is to train the student’s eye to see accurately and with sensitivity, and to foster an environment in which students can grow in their understanding of art as well as in skill and confidence. The school says it was the first school for classical art studies on Long Island and describes itself as the premier art academy on Long Island. It also says all classes are taught by exhibiting professional artists with thorough MFA or equivalent training.

Adult courses are appropriate for teens unless otherwise marked. Kids classes are noted. Teens can join most adult courses during the day, with more flexibility and prorating tuition. Please review policies regarding make-ups, refunds, and enrollment prior to registering.

What families say

“I’ve been attending oil painting classes here for quite a while; it’s a wonderful place to learn a solid foundation. We all have ability and the teachers here know how to bring it out. I’ve learned so much!” — Melissa, adult student

“My daughter often says how thankful she was to be able to take classes at LIAFA. Her experience at LIAFA prepared her for art school and all its demands. She is confident and ready for all the challenges her teachers throw at her. Thank you for all that LIAFA did to help her on her creative path.” — Mary, mother of college freshman at Hartford Art School

Last updated September 6, 2026.