A number of studios and community spaces in Johnson City, Tenn., offer art classes for children and families that provide hands-on learning in painting, pottery, drawing, and other visual media.
These classes help support motor skill development, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving. Many of the programs are for beginners and a variety of age groups, including sessions designed for both kids and adults.
Options include weekly lessons, one-time workshops, and seasonal programs such as summer camps. For families seeking structured, creative activities outside the classroom, these classes offer an accessible and flexible option.
To create this guide, we interviewed parents, conducted online research and gathered insights from reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Reddit posts, and in some cases from parent interviews through our reporting. This list showcases classes recommended by parents based on their personal experiences. Each program’s offerings, location, and schedule were carefully verified to provide families with accurate, reliable information to support their decision-making.
Ready to get started? Here are some great art classes for kiddos and adults:
MOMAC Studio
MOMAC Studio is a vibrant fine arts studio founded by LaDonna Baxter, a dedicated artist and educator with a passion for helping children tap into their creative potential. Nestled in Johnson City, MOMAC offers a nurturing, colorful space where kids can explore a wide variety of visual art forms—from painting and drawing to sculpture and collage. The studio’s mission is to encourage self-expression while teaching foundational techniques in a supportive, joy-filled environment. Classes are small and focused, which allows instructors to give each child the attention and encouragement they need to grow.
What to know:
- Classes for Kids: Weekly group sessions for pre-K and school-aged children explore various art forms in an age-appropriate and supportive setting.
- Summer Art Camps: Popular themed art camps include guest instructors and hands-on projects.
- Private Lessons: Individualized instruction tailored to student interest and skill level.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Designed to be inclusive, encouraging participation from all family members.
What families are saying:
Keia Keeling, a mom of 4, of Johnson City, shared her experience with MOMAC with Tennessee Parent,
My daughter loves it. She is 11 and this has been her first semester, but will definitely be going back. I will say it has been great as she is even high functioning autistic with fine motor delay and has helped so much.
Location: 2203 McKinley Rd, Suite 230, Johnson City, TN 37604
Website: https://momacstudio.com
Phone: (423)-366-2533
Ages/Programs: Pre-K and up; Weekly Classes, Summer Camps, Private Lessons
McKinney Center
The McKinney Center, located just a short drive from Johnson City in historic Jonesborough, is a cultural and educational cornerstone of the community. Housed in a restored school building, the center offers a wide range of high-quality arts education through the Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts.
Its programming is thoughtfully designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and introduce children and families to everything from visual arts and ceramics to music, dance, and theater. With classes offered year-round and taught by passionate, experienced instructors, the McKinney Center is ideal for families seeking rich, meaningful experiences rooted in the arts. It’s also known for being welcoming and inclusive, offering financial assistance and scholarships for families in need.
What to know:
- Kid-Focused Classes: Includes “Art Adventures” (ages 5–7) and “Kids N Clay” for hands-on ceramic experiences.
- Multi-Discipline Learning: Options range from visual arts and music to performance and storytelling.
- Financial Support: Scholarships are available for qualifying families.
- Seasonal Offerings: New class lists are released each spring and fall with updated schedules.
What families are saying:
Beverly Thomas Jenkins, a Johnson City parent and teacher, shared her experience at The McKinney Center with Tennessee Parent. She said,
It’s great place for children and adults to take classes!! It’s very well organized. A great place to learn, make friends and have fun!!” She shared these images with us from some of her recent classes.
Location: 103 Franklin Ave, Jonesborough, TN 37659
Website: https://mckinneycenter.com
Phone: (423) 753-0562
Ages/Programs: Ages 5–17; Art Adventures, Ceramics, Theater, Music, Dance
Masterpiece Mixers
Masterpiece Mixers in Johnson City offers a welcoming and energetic space where families can gather to paint, laugh, and make lasting memories. Whether you’re celebrating a child’s birthday, planning a parent-child bonding day, or looking for a creative outlet, this studio provides everything you need for a successful art experience.
Step-by-step guided instruction makes it easy for even first-time painters to walk away with a finished canvas they’re proud of. With themed paint nights, holiday events, and fundraising options, Masterpiece Mixers has become a go-to destination for artsy fun in the Tri-Cities area.
What to know:
- Children’s Parties: Themed painting parties with instructors, supplies, and set-up included.
- Open Studio & Events: Walk-in sessions and themed family nights available.
- Fundraisers & Private Events: A fun way for schools, clubs, and teams to raise funds or celebrate.
What families are saying:
Keisha Douthitt, of Johnson City, shared her experience at Master Mixers with Tennessee Parent.
I really loved it. A friend and I went one night. The teacher gave step by step instruction on how to draw whatever was featured for that day. It was a very relaxing environment. She also did a drawing with you. There were a few kids participating who loved it as well.
Location: 101 E Unaka Ave, Suite 6, Johnson City, TN 37601
Website: https://www.masterpiecemixersjc.com
Phone: (423) 833-6028
Ages/Programs: Ages 5+; Parties, Painting Nights, Fundraisers
Hunter’s Hearth Pottery
Hunter’s Hearth Pottery is a cozy, hands-on studio in downtown Johnson City where aspiring potters of all skill levels can learn the art of throwing clay. Founded and run by local potter Hunter Furches, the studio is centered around personal growth, creativity, and community connection.
Students receive personalized instruction in a small group setting and have 24/7 access to the studio, encouraging practice and exploration. Whether you’re a teen trying pottery for the first time or a parent looking to de-stress through art, Hunter’s Hearth is a calm and inviting place to get your hands dirty and make something truly your own.
What to know:
- 8-Class Pottery Series: Includes guided lessons on the pottery wheel, glazing, and finishing.
- Studio Access: Enrolled students have 24/7 access to practice outside class.
- All Materials Included: Tools, clay, and glaze are provided with each session.
What families are saying:
Mom Jeannie Montalbo, of Johnson City, shared a review and some fun photos with Tennessee Parent. She said,
We took our homeschool group to Hunter’s Hearth and the kids had a blast! Miss Katelyn was very helpful at teaching the kids how to use the pottery wheel. We will definitely visit the studio again soon. Would highly recommend for field trips or family time.
Location: 320 E Main St, Johnson City, TN 37601
Website: https://www.huntershearthpottery.com
Phone: (423) 268-1093
Ages/Programs: Teens and Adults; Pottery Wheel Classes, Studio Memberships
Into the Fire
Into the Fire is one of Johnson City’s most beloved creative destinations for kids and families. This cheerful downtown studio offers paint-your-own pottery experiences that are perfect for all ages and skill levels. Children can walk in and pick from a wide selection of pottery pieces, then paint them however they’d like.
The studio also hosts themed events like storytime and paint, kids’ canvas classes, and full-week summer camps packed with crafts, snacks, and games. Whether you’re planning a birthday party or just looking for a rainy day activity, Into the Fire provides a colorful, low-pressure environment where kids can let their imaginations run wild.
What to know:
- Storytime & Paint: Designed for toddlers and preschoolers, includes a story, snack, and painting project.
- Kids Canvas Class: Guided canvas painting for kids ages 5 and up.
- Summer Art Camp: Multi-day sessions with themes, snacks, crafts, and an end-of-week art show.
- Parties & Events: Custom packages for birthdays and group outings.
What families are saying:
Mama, Melissa Alderman, whose daughter had a birthday party at Into the Fire told Tennessee Parent a bit of their story:
My daughter and her friends had a great time. There were lot of different items to choose from and price range is very open for everyone’s budget. All staff was very nice and helpful and we got to bring in outside food and cake.
Location: 109 Cherry St, Suite 30, Johnson City, TN 37604
Website: https://www.intothefirejc.com
Phone: (423) 926-2529
Ages/Programs: Ages 3+; Storytime & Paint, Canvas Classes, Pottery, Camps
