13 Top Art Schools in Kenya For Artists

Kenya’s art scene is vibrant and diverse, with a range of art schools and institutions offering training in various disciplines. 

Listed below are some top art schools in Kenya where you can refine your skills, nurture your artistic vision, and prepare for a career in the arts. These institutions provide a variety of programs and courses, led by experienced artists and educators. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an established artist, there’s an art school in Kenya suited to your needs. Explore these renowned institutions and unlock your creative potential in the thriving art scene of Kenya.

1. Africa Digital Media Institute

ADMI (Africa Digital Media Institute) is one of Eastern Africa’s leading creative media and technology training institutions based in Nairobi, Kenya. With a commitment to empowering Africa’s digital generation, ADMI offers practical courses in various fields such as Film & TV Production, Video Production, Music Production, Sound Engineering, Animation & Digital Media, Graphic Design, Photography, and Digital Marketing. Their programs provide high-spec technical training in creative media and technology, accompanied by intensive digital and soft-skills coaching. ADMI’s Career Launchpad program focuses on developing students’ soft skills to enhance their marketability to future employers and clients. With a diverse community of students from over 27 countries, ADMI is dedicated to fostering a global learning environment.

Courses offered: They include:

• Drawing Fundamentals
• 2D Animation Certificate (Rubika)

Program structure: The school runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and is closed on Sundays. Consult with the institution for more information on their schedule.

Fees: The fees vary, visit ADMI Fees Structure Page for more information. 

Location: Caxton House, 25, Kenyatta Avenue

Application: Visit the school’s online application page 

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0706349696 or 0772913811 or 0770370691 
• Email:  [email protected]

2. Buruburu Institite of Fine Arts

Buruburu Institute of Fine Arts was established in 1993 to promote growth in the world of art and design. It’s a vibrant and multicultural community dedicated to providing a high-achieving educational experience in the fine and performing arts. With a focus on inquiry, exploration, individuality, and teamwork, BIFA prepares students for a meaningful creative life. Offering courses in Art & Design, Drawing & Painting, Fabric Decoration, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Multi-Media Crafts, and Sculpture, BIFA fosters intellectual growth, perspective-shifting, and the mastery of relevant 21st-century skills. With esteemed faculty, an interdisciplinary curriculum, and a commitment to innovation, BIFA provides an unparalleled environment for learning, questioning, and creating art. Join the BIFA community to boost your career and develop skills in high demand.

Courses offered: They include:

• Drawing & Painting

Program structure: The school runs from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays, 8 am to 12 pm on Saturdays, and is closed on Sundays. Consult the institution for more information on their schedule.

Fees: The fees vary. Visit https://bifa.ac.ke/fee-structure/ for clearer information on the fee amount.

Location: Mumias S Rd, Nairobi

Application: Visithttps://kenyapen.com/buruburu-institute-of-fine-arts-intake/

Contacts: 

• Phone: +254 020 2330359
• Email: [email protected]

3. Nairobi Art Centre

Nairobi Art Centre (N.A.C) is a creative hub dedicated to providing art education and fostering artistic expression in an inspiring environment. With 13 years of experience in teaching art, N.A.C. offers a variety of activities and classes for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. From art classes for beginners to advanced courses, N.A.C provides step-by-step guidance and a supportive atmosphere for artists to develop their skills and confidence using various art materials. With a mission to enrich lives through artistic expression and a vision to be a nurturing community art space, N.A.C invites artists of all levels to unleash their creativity and participate in the creation and promotion of functional and fine art.

Courses offered: They include:

• Diploma in Art and Design ( Graphics)
• Diploma in Art and Design ( Art and Design )

Program structure: The school offers art courses for four semesters and the school runs from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 4 pm on Saturdays. Inquire about the institution for more details on its program.

Fees: The school charges Half day – 10,000ksh per week or 2,200 per day. 9 am to 12 pm. Full day – 15,000 Ksh per week or 3500 per day. Consult the institution for more details.

Location: Kauria Cl, Nairobi

Application: Visit the online application page.

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0727 415678 
• Email · [email protected] 

4. Sketchmasta School of Art

Sketchmasta School of Art was founded in 2016 to offer art courses for all levels of skills and needs. It’s a premier institution in Nairobi that offers a range of art courses for individuals of all skill levels. With a focus on creating a serene and artistic environment, students can learn and develop their craft while receiving guidance from experienced tutors and industry experts. The courses include Graphite, Charcoal, and Painting, each designed to teach various techniques and concepts to enhance artistic abilities. Whether you’re interested in creating realistic portraits or exploring the expressive potential of charcoal, Sketchmasta School of Art provides a supportive and inclusive space for individuals to nurture their creativity.

Courses offered: They include:

• Graphite course
• Charcoal course
• Painting course
• Digital art course

Program structure: The institution runs from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturdays. Inquire with the institution for more information about their schedule.

Fees: Ksh 75,000:Duration: 3 Months (2 Hours per Day | Monday – Friday)

Location: David Osieli Rd, Nairobi

Application: Visit the online application page to apply.

Contacts:

• Phone: +254 113 898209. 
• Email:[email protected] 

5. Visualdo Institute

Visualdo Institute is a premier college for creative minds, offering a wide range of diploma, certificate, and artisan courses in film, photography, journalism, graphic design, web design, fine art, performing arts, and technology. The institute focuses on providing practical, industry-relevant training that combines creativity, business insight, and technology. With both in-class and online courses available, Visualdo Institute aims to educate and nurture tomorrow’s creative leaders. The institute is known for its fusion of creative disciplines and its commitment to delivering graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields. Visualdo Institute is accredited by reputable institutions and provides valuable certifications, career advancement opportunities, and a flexible learning approach for students’ success.

Courses offered: They include:

• Diploma in Fine Art
• Certificate in Fine Art 
• Short course in Fine Art

Program structure: The institution runs from 9 am to 5 pm from Monday to Saturday and is closed on Sundays. Diploma, certificate, and short courses run for 18, 9, and 3 months respectively. 

Fees: they vary with the course. Here’s a breakdown of the course fee structure.

Location: Kenya House Complex, 2nd Floor Monrovia St Junction of Monrovia St & Koinange Street

Application: Visit the online application page to register

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0746 536 396 
• Email: [email protected]

6. Academy of Graphic Technologies

The Academy of Graphic Technologies is a renowned institution established in 2000 by the publishing, packaging, printing, and multimedia industries. Its mission is to provide comprehensive training and bridge the technological gap in the industry. The academy offers short and long courses to professionals and high school leavers, including a 3-month Electronic Publishing foundation certificate and a 2-year Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design. With a focus on bridging the gap in graphic design technology, AGT provides a conducive learning environment and has trained thousands of students.

Courses offered: They include:

• Art & Design

Program structure: The school runs from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays and is closed on weekends. Inquire about the institution to get access to their schedule.

Fees: Varies with the course and duration of taking the course. Consult the institution to access the fee structure.

Location: Three Bees Complex along Maasai Road

Application: Fill out the online application form to register 

Contacts: 

• Phone: +254 719 246650 
• Email: [email protected]

7. Bobea Arts Centre 

Bobea Arts Centre was established in the year 2010 to provide a conducive environment for the local children and youth to explore, develop and showcase their artistic talent.  As a leading art center in Kenya, Bobea offers a wide range of art programs, workshops, and exhibitions that cater to both beginners and experienced artists. With a focus on nurturing creativity and fostering artistic growth, Bobea provides a supportive and inspiring environment for artists to develop their skills and explore their passion. Bobea Arts Centre also provides a forum for the students being nurtured by professionals to display their creative works at the art center. As the institution’s name suggests, students under the professional trainers of the school are assured of success even as they proceed to the market to showcase their skills.

Courses offered: They include:

• Visual arts
• Paintings

Program structure: Consult the institution

Fees: Get a quote directly from the institution’s website 

Location:  Located at Donholm road, Nairobi

Application: Contact the school to apply 

Contacts:  

• Phone: 0721 637796  
• Email: [email protected]

8. Dust Depo Art Studio

Dust Depo is a privately funded organization that supports artists from all backgrounds; mentoring young talent. Located in Nairobi, the studio provides a platform for artists to express their creativity and showcase their talent. Various artists assemble to create various pieces of art using different media.  With a focus on contemporary art forms, Dust Depo offers a range of programs and workshops, allowing artists to explore various mediums and techniques. The studio also hosts exhibitions and events, fostering a vibrant community of artists and art enthusiasts. 

Courses offered: The institution nurtures talent and gives a platform to showcase artistic talent.

Program structure: Most programs are short courses

Fees: Inquire with the institution

Application: Contact the school through their  Instagram page to apply 

Location:  The Godown Arts Centre, Industrial Area, Next To Giro Bank, Off Lusaka Road, Dunga Rd, Nairobi

Contacts:

• Phone: 0723 708065
• Email: [email protected]

9. Fun Fest Kids Holiday Club 

Funfest Kids Club is a creative arts center located in Lavington, Kenya, providing art classes for children aged 4 to 18. With a focus on the creative arts, the club offers a program that nurtures children’s creative and explorative skills. Their experienced trainers and illustrators have over ten years of experience. The club teaches various art forms, including sketching, painting, knitting, crocheting, woodworking, metalworking, and arts and crafts. Funfest Kids Club is a place where children can have fun, learn, and unleash their creativity.

Courses offered: 

• Typography
• Sketching & Painting
• Art & Craft & fun games

Program structure: Classes are done both online and on-site. Inquire with the institution for more information.

Fees: Inquire with the institution

Application: Use the contacts provided below to get in touch with the art school 

Location:  Hatheru Road, Lavington, Behind Hatheru Apartments, Nairobi

Contacts:  

• Phone: +254 723 756 407
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: fredrikmadgearch.my.canva.site/funfest-kids-club 

10. Van Gogh Art Studio and Gallery

Van Gogh Art Studio and Gallery is a dedicated art school and gallery located in Nairobi, Kenya. Founded by Mr. Esendi Newton Kisia and Immanuel Shikanda, the studio offers fine art classes for both teenagers and adults. The institution started as a dream to benefit all creative individuals in the slums and currently, it has created a platform for very many artists. With a focus on quality artwork and skills, they provide a platform for local and international artists to showcase their talent through exhibitions and art competitions. It is dedicated to offering quality artwork and skills for both local and international society.

 Courses offered: 

• Fine arts 

Program structure: Consult the institution

Fees: Inquire with the institution

Application: Visit the institution’s website and get a quote

Location: Kangundo Road at Saika, Kwa Miti stage near MYSA Opposite Komarock, Nairobi

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0724 073063

Wrapping up

Kenya is home to a vibrant art scene with several outstanding art drawing schools that offer quality education and training for aspiring artists. From traditional drawing techniques to digital art and multimedia, these schools provide comprehensive programs that cater to the diverse interests and skills of students. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, these institutions offer a supportive and inspiring environment to nurture your talent and enhance your artistic abilities. By enrolling in one of the best art drawing schools in Kenya, you can embark on a journey of creative exploration and professional growth, setting a strong foundation for a successful career in the art industry.