Are you looking for online art courses in Canada? Unleash your creativity and start your art learning journey with our curated list of top online art courses below.
| Course Name | Students Enrolled | Review Count |
|---|---|---|
| Coursera – Modern and Contemporary Art and Design | ~450,000+ | ~55,000+ |
| Coursera – In the Studio: Postwar Abstract Painting | ~120,000+ | ~8,500+ |
| Coursera – Modern Arts and Ideas | 400,000+ | 55,000+ |
| Udemy – Character Art School | 300,000+ | 60,000+ |
| Thompson Rivers University – Bachelor of Fine Arts | 85,000+ | 18,000+ |
| Canadian Contemporary School of Art – Online Art Classes For Kids | 25,000+ | 18,000+ |
| The Art Institute – The Online Art Appreciation Course | 100,000+ | 85,000+ |
| Emily Carr University – Fine Art Certificate | 38,000+ | 12,000+ |
| Skillshare – Digital Illustration & Character Design Classes | N/A (subscription-based) | N/A (thousands of positive class ratings) |
| Proko – Online Drawing & Anatomy Courses | N/A (platform-based) | N/A (excellent artist reviews) |
Coursera – Modern and Contemporary Art and Design
This Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) specialization surveys key movements, artists, and ideas in modern and contemporary art (late 19th century to present), exploring themes like identity, society, everyday objects, and place/space.
It includes video lectures, artist interviews, close looks at major works, and supplementary resources.
Self-paced (6–8 weeks at 5–10 hours/week), beginner-to-intermediate, and highly rated (4.8/5+) for its engaging, museum-level content—perfect in 2026 for anyone building art knowledge or drawing inspiration for personal creative work.
Coursera – In the Studio: Postwar Abstract Painting
This Museum of Modern Art course examines postwar abstract painting (1940s–1970s), focusing on techniques, materials, processes, and ideas of key artists (e.g., Pollock, Rothko, Frankenthaler).
It features studio demonstrations, in-depth analysis of works, and exploration of abstraction’s evolution.
Self-paced (12–15 hours), with videos, readings, and reflective assignments.
Praised for depth and inspiration—ideal in 2026 for artists or enthusiasts wanting to understand and apply abstract techniques in their own practice.
Coursera – Modern Arts and Ideas
This course is suitable for individuals who have an interest in expanding their knowledge of modern and contemporary art. The course overviews key artistic movements, influential artists, and significant works that have shaped the modern art landscape. You will explore various aspects of art through different themes:
- Places & Spaces,
- Art & Identity,
- Transforming Everyday Objects, and
- Art & Society.
You will also have the chance to listen to audio interviews with artists, designers, and curators and delve into supplementary readings and resources to gain deeper insights into selected works. Explore the course by clicking here.
Udemy – Character Art School
Character Art School is a comprehensive video course designed to teach creating professional character illustrations for various mediums, including books, games, animation, manga, and comics. This course will teach you all the fundamentals and advanced skills for drawing and sketching characters.
If you’re a complete novice or already have intermediate sketching skills, this course will take you to the next level. The course module includes the following topics:
- Intro to Art Fundamentals
- Drawing Fundamentals
- Character Forms and Proportions
- Gesture Drawing Foundations
- Character Drawing Workflows
- Character Composition and Design
- Facial Expression and Emotion
- Hair and Cloth Dynamics
- Character Post-Production
This Udemy course also includes a thorough 10-module guided video course, with the only limit to your success being your determination and participation in the rewarding assignments. Discover the course at this link.
Thompson Rivers University – Bachelor of Fine Arts
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) offers a dynamic Bachelor of Fine Arts program that provides students with a comprehensive visual and performing arts education.
You will learn a lot in this program, from theory to gallery. Upon completion of this online course, you will obtain knowledge and skills such as:
- A diverse range of artistic mediums
- Paint mixing and application techniques
- Intricate approaches using mediums such as watercolor and oil
- Using a wide array of materials, objects, techniques, and ideas essential to the three-dimensional aspects of visual art
- Understanding both historical and contemporary art practices
- Develop familiarity with gallery operations and programming at local, regional, national, and international levels, and gain insights into artistic communities’ economic structure and impact.
- Participate in art exhibitions on campus and in the local community, showcasing your work alongside fellow students and esteemed professors.
You can also grab opportunities to exhibit your art in international galleries, all while earning credits towards your degree, or opt for a semester abroad to broaden your artistic horizons. Check out the course here.
Canadian Contemporary School of Art – Online Art Classes For Kids
If you are looking for online art classes for your kids, the Canadian Contemporary School of Art is your best choice. The art school primarily focuses on nurturing art education for children, and they offer an excellent online platform to young artists nationwide.
The online art courses are designed to engage and inspire young minds, fostering their creativity and artistic development.
Canadian Contemporary School of Art has a team of highly motivated and professional art teachers dedicated to providing top-notch online classes. They utilize engaging and effective teaching methods, ensuring each child receives personalized attention and guidance.
To ensure your child’s experience is a perfect fit, they offer a free trial session for all our online art classes. This allows your child to explore various art mediums and teaching styles while finding the course that resonates with their interests and aspirations. Discover the course at this link.
The Art Institute – The Online Art Appreciation Course
The Art Institute’s comprehensive online Art Appreciation Course is a dynamic program designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on a new career path or pursue your passion for art as a dedicated hobbyist.
Directed by esteemed art and antique consultant Hilary Kay and written by some of the most accomplished art practitioners in the field, this Diploma course ensures a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
The Art Appreciation Course is delivered entirely online, allowing you to access the material and participate at your own pace and convenience. With 12 modules and 12 assignments, this course offers a structured and comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of art-related topics.
You will explore various aspects of art, including its history, different art movements, influential artists, and vital artistic techniques. You will also learn about the captivating art world through engaging and insightful lessons created by a team of experts.
When you finish the course, you will receive a Diploma in Art Appreciation from The Art Institute. This esteemed qualification is a testament to your dedication, knowledge, and mastery of art appreciation. Explore the course by clicking here.
Emily Carr University – Fine Art Certificate
The Emily Carr University Fine Art Certification Course is created to provide students with a solid foundation in diverse fine arts techniques, processes, and concepts. This program serves as a stepping stone for students interested in pursuing further education or engaging in transdisciplinary art practices.
Students will be able to explore a wide range of tools and materials. They can develop their skills and techniques in various mediums, from drawing to photography and painting.
The curriculum combines studio and lecture courses to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of art history, modern theories, and transdisciplinary professional practices.
Students of this course will also benefit from the advice and mentorship of seasoned faculty members who are talented artists. The instructors’ skills and different artistic backgrounds create an enriching learning environment. Find the course details right here.
Skillshare – Digital Illustration & Character Design Classes
Skillshare offers a vast library of short, project-based online classes in digital illustration, character design, concept art, and related skills (taught by professional artists).
Classes (typically 1–3 hours each) cover tools (Procreate, Photoshop, Clip Studio), anatomy, storytelling, color theory, and portfolio building—subscription-based with unlimited access.
Highly popular for its creative, community-driven format and frequent updates—excellent in 2026 for digital artists, illustrators, or hobbyists seeking bite-sized, hands-on learning and inspiration.
Proko – Online Drawing & Anatomy Courses
Proko (by artist Stan Prokopenko) provides high-quality, structured online drawing and anatomy courses, including figure drawing, portraiture, anatomy for artists, and character design fundamentals.
Courses feature video lessons, demonstrations, assignments, and community feedback—self-paced with lifetime access options.
Widely respected for clear instruction and professional-level results—ideal in 2026 for serious learners building strong foundational drawing skills for fine art, illustration, or character work.
2026 Art Learning Landscape: Trends, Benefits, and Opportunities
Online art education in 2026 is more dynamic than ever, blending traditional techniques with digital innovation and wellness-focused approaches.
Key trends shaping courses and practice include:
- Digital & AI Integration — Tools like Procreate, Photoshop, Midjourney, and AI-assisted sketching are standard; courses teaching digital illustration, character design, and AI prompting (e.g., Skillshare, Proko) prepare learners for freelance, game, animation, and NFT/digital art careers.
- Mental Health & Therapeutic Art — Art-making is widely recognized for stress relief, mindfulness, and emotional processing; many learners choose courses for personal growth, therapy, or community (e.g., expressive painting, abstract work).
- Sustainability & Eco-Conscious Art — Rise in natural, low-waste materials, recycled mediums, and ethical sourcing—courses touching on responsible practice resonate with environmentally aware creators.
- Inclusive & Accessible Learning — Platforms prioritize diverse representation, adaptive techniques for disabilities, and multilingual options; kid-focused classes (e.g., Canadian Contemporary School of Art) emphasize joy, confidence, and creativity over perfection.
- Career & Portfolio Growth — Digital portfolios, social media presence, and freelance platforms (e.g., Behance, ArtStation) are essential; courses covering character design, illustration, or fine art fundamentals support entry into games, publishing, animation, or teaching.
These trends make 2026 an exciting time to start—courses offering both technical mastery (Udemy, Proko) and conceptual depth (Coursera) help learners thrive personally and professionally.
Canadian Art Education & Career Snapshot for 2026
Canada’s art and creative industries are vibrant and growing:
- Demand & Opportunities — Digital art, animation, game design, illustration, and fine art remain strong; roles in studios, advertising, publishing, museums, and education show steady openings (thousands projected annually through 2030s). Freelance/digital creators earn $40,000–$90,000+ depending on niche/experience.
- Education Pathways — University certificates/degrees (e.g., Emily Carr, TRU) provide formal credentials; online platforms (Coursera, Skillshare, Udemy) offer affordable, flexible skill-building; kid programs support early creativity and confidence.
- Accessibility & Support — Many courses are low-cost or subscription-based; some offer financial aid, free trials, or community forums. Canadian institutions emphasize inclusivity and Indigenous perspectives in contemporary art.
Online learning removes geographic barriers—whether in Toronto, Vancouver, rural areas, or across provinces—making art education more equitable than ever.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Succeeding with Online Art Courses in 2026
- Match to Your Level & Goals: Beginners → Start with accessible options like Coursera (https://www.coursera.org/specializations/modern-contemporary-art-design or https://www.coursera.org/learn/painting) for art history/context or Udemy Character Art for digital fundamentals. Hobbyists → Explore expressive or therapeutic styles. Career-focused? → Prioritize portfolio-building courses (Proko, Skillshare) or formal programs (Emily Carr, TRU). For kids → Choose engaging, age-appropriate classes (Canadian Contemporary School of Art).
- Build a Routine & Practice — Dedicate regular time (even 20–30 minutes daily); complete assignments, experiment with prompts, and keep a sketchbook or digital folder.
- Create & Share — Build a portfolio early (Instagram, Behance, personal website); share work for feedback in course communities or online art groups.
- Invest Wisely — Start with free trials (Skillshare, Coursera audit mode); choose lifetime-access courses (Udemy) for ongoing reference.
- Stay Inspired & Current — Follow artists on social media, visit virtual galleries (MoMA, National Gallery of Canada online), and explore emerging tools (AI art assistants, new apps).
Conclusion
With a wide range of courses offered by reputable institutions and talented instructors, individuals across the country can now explore various art mediums, techniques, and art history from their homes in 2026.
Coursera – Modern and Contemporary Art and Design and Coursera – In the Studio: Postwar Abstract Painting are our top choices on the list for their museum-quality depth and inspiration.
These online art classes provide a flexible learning environment, allowing students to set their own pace and tailor their artistic journey to their individual needs and schedules.
