Arts Labs: Year-round art classes for kids & adults in NJ
Experience hands-on art for beginners, explorers, and long-time artists!
Appel Farm’s Art Labs support creativity at every stage of life. These welcoming, process-based art classes help kids, teens, and adults build skills and connection through hands-on artmaking in an inclusive New Jersey arts center.
Make art, have fun, and feel inspired at Appel Farm Arts Labs!
Appel Farm Arts & Music Center has been a creative home in South Jersey for over 60 years. We’re a nonprofit with a mission to build community through the arts, and everything we do reflects that. From our inclusive summer camp to our after-school programs and seasonal events, we always prioritize creating joyful, supportive spaces where people can explore and grow.
Our Arts Labs program extends that spirit into the school year with hands-on art classes for children and adults. We offer a mix of structured courses and one-time workshops, including drawing classes, painting classes, ceramics, mosaic art, candle-making, and even casual “sip” nights for grown-ups. Classes are taught by professional teaching artists who know how to guide and encourage people of all ages and experience levels.
You’ll find weekend art classes for kids, beginner-friendly classes for adults, and easygoing art-and-wine experiences—all at Appel Farm!
We offer art classes for all ages!
Since creativity looks different for everyone, our art classes are thoughtfully tailored by age, interest, and experience level.
Kids' and teen classes
Our arts classes for children support creativity, confidence-building, and, of course, fun! Young artists get to work with various artistic materials and tools in a safe, friendly environment where their ideas are entertained and even amplified. We offer after-school art classes for kids and weekend options too, so families can find what works best for them.
Adult classes & sip series
Our adult art classes are designed for anyone looking to reconnect with creativity. You don’t need experience—just a willingness to try. Many of our students are total beginners, and others are brushing up on skills they haven’t used in years. We also offer social, creative experiences like our Sip Series, which includes everything from watercolor and wine to charcoal sketching and candle making.
Seasonal workshops
Looking to try something new without committing to a full course? Our seasonal art workshops are a great way to jump in. They’re short, affordable, and perfect for families, friends, or solo creatives who want to spend a few hours making something by hand.
Art classes for kids and teens
Big imagination and lots of creativity start here. Our art classes give kids and teens the freedom to explore, experiment, and enjoy the actual process of making art.
🔵 Currently running
Youth Ceramics - $275
10 weeks to practice hand-building, work on wheel-throwing skills, or explore a combination of clay tools and techniques to create art unique to your interests! Designed for all skill levels.
Class details and schedule:
- Designed for grades 4-8
- Thursdays 4:15 pm – 5:45 pm
- January 22nd-March 26th
Join our newsletter to be the first to know when registration opens again!
Art classes for adults
It’s never too late to get creative! Our classes invite adults to relax, explore new materials, and enjoy the creative process—no experience required.
Sip Series (Monthly)
Offered monthly from September through June, our Sips Series runs from 6:30–8:30 pm and gives you the chance to try a new art medium each time. You provide the beverage, we’ll provide all the art materials you need!
Check out ourclasses for our Sips Series:
🟠 Session completed
Swing and Sip – $45
Join us for our Swing & Sip class and learn how to swing dance with a partner! Great for couples or friends alike, this experience combines movement, creativity, and a refreshing drink for a memorable night out.
Class details and schedule
- Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Join our newsletter to be the first to know when registration opens again!
🟢 Upcoming
Candle and Sip – $45
Join us for our Candle & Sip class and learn how to make painted candles with melted wax! Make one for yourself or craft a thoughtful, handmade gift for your loved ones, all while enjoying a drink and good company!
Class details and schedule
- Wednesday, March 11, 2026
- 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
🟢 Upcoming
Watercolor and Sip – $45
Join us for our Watercolor & Sip class and learn the basics of painting with watercolor! Spend a creative evening with professional teaching artist, Loren Dann, making art, enjoying a beverage, and catching up with friends.
Class details and schedule
- Wednesday, April 8, 2026
- 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
🟢 Upcoming
Charcoal and Sip – $45
Join us for our Charcoal & Sip class and learn the basics of drawing with charcoal! Guided by professional teaching artist Loren Dann, participants explore line, shape, and shading through charcoal drawing in a supportive setting—great for sipping a drink as you create.
Class details and schedule
- Wednesday, May 13, 2026
- 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
🟢 Upcoming
Mosaic Workshop (4 Sessions) - $160
A brand-new class created by popular request! This brand-new 4-session mosaic workshop builds on our popular Mosaic and Sip class, offering participants of all levels the chance to dive deeper into the art of mosaic-making and create their own finished pieces.
Class details and schedule
- Tuesday, April 21, Thursday, April 23, Tuesday, April 28, and Thursday, April 30, 2026
- 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
- Designed for all levels, ages 17+
- Payment plan available: $50 deposit plus 2 payments of $36.66, paid every four weeks. Final payment of $36.68.
Spots fill up fast—sign up early to save your spot!
Many of our art classes fill quickly, especially the ones with limited seats, like ceramics and our Sip Series. Check out what’s currently running and register early to get the schedule that works best for you.
Why we’re your top choice for art classes in South Jersey
We stand out because:
- We hire professional teaching artists who love to teach and know their craft.
- Our classes are small and supportive, so you never feel lost.
- You’ll learn in welcoming art studios on a beautiful 110-acre creative campus in Elmer, NJ.
- We welcome everyone, with LGBTQ+- and gender-inclusive spaces, and a focus on restorative practices and collaborative learning.
- With our creative, inclusive learning spaces, we make the arts more accessible so people with disabilities can create and express themselves with no hindrances.
Check out some past artwork by our previous students!
Take a peek at the kind of art our students have made! You’ll find everything from bold acrylic paintings to charming ceramic mugs. Every piece tells a creative story, and we love celebrating them.
Get a senior discount for your chosen art class!
If you’re 55 or older, use code SENIOR5 at checkout to save $5 on your registration. It’s a small thank-you to the lifelong learners in our community.
We’d love to create art with you!
Our arts labs in Elmer, NJ are open to all kids, teens, and adults who are ready to explore their creativity in a warm, welcoming environment. There’s a seat waiting for you at Appel Farm, and we can’t wait to see what you create!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Do I need prior experience to take an art class?
Not at all! Most of our classes are designed with beginners in mind. Our teaching artists will meet you where you are.
Who are these art classes for?
Our art classes are open to kids, teens, and adults of all experience levels. Whether someone is brand new to art or has been creating for years, our classes are designed to be welcoming, age-appropriate, and supportive.
How long do art classes usually last?
Some are single-session workshops, others run for several weeks. You can find all the details on the registration page.
Are art supplies included in the class fee?
Yes, unless noted otherwise. If you’re joining any of our classes in the Sip Series, all you need to bring is your favorite beverage, and we’ll handle the art materials!
How much do art classes cost?
Our goal is to keep everything affordable. Prices vary by class length and type, but we offer discounts when possible. Check each class listing for specific pricing!