If you’re seeking enriching art experiences for children in Columbia, TN, you’re in luck. The city offers a variety of programs designed to nurture creativity and self-expression in young artists.
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.
From structured classes to interactive museum sessions, here are some top options to consider:
1. Building Block School for the Arts
Located in the heart of Columbia, the Building Block School for the Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating creativity and community through the arts.
Things to Know:
- In addition to visual arts, the school provides dance, theater, music, and private lessons, making it a one-stop shop for creative learning.
- Offers daytime, evening, and weekend classes to accommodate school schedules and working parents.
- Students have the opportunity to showcase their work in performances, art shows, and community events throughout the year.
- This nonprofit emphasizes values like teamwork, confidence, and personal expression. They also participate in local festivals and outreach events.
- Keeps class sizes intentionally small for more individualized attention and instruction.
What families are saying:
One Facebook mama shared,
Our family is so thankful for Building Blocks! They provide a fun and safe place for each child to learn and grow. Ms.Sherry has so many wonderful ideas and is always encouraging to each child! Amazing after school programs in the various Arts and homeschool programs that include the Arts along with core subjects!
Location Details:
- Address: 1309 S. Main Street, Columbia, TN 38401
- Phone: (931) 442-5007
- Website: https://www.buildingblockarts.com/
2. aMuse’um Children’s Museum – Art Station
aMuse’um offers weekly Art Station sessions where children can explore various art forms through hands-on activities. These parent-led sessions are designed to spark creativity in a fun, interactive environment.
Things to Know:
- No long-term commitment needed — great for families looking to try something new without enrolling in a full session.
- Sessions are designed for caregivers to create alongside children, promoting bonding and creative confidence.
- Art Station is structured to be welcoming for toddlers and neurodiverse children, with staff trained to support a wide range of learning needs.
- Each week features a new theme (e.g., nature, animals, space) to keep things exciting and build a wide range of creative experiences.
- A wonderful way to introduce young children to paint, glue, clay, and creative play without the mess at home!
What families are saying:
A facebook parent noted,
A fabulous place for young children to play and learn! Ages 2-6 will find plenty to do for hours at a time.
Location Details:
Website: amuseumcolumbia.com
Address: 123 W. 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401
Phone: (931) 223-6337
3. Painting with a Twist – Twist Kids Summer Art Camp
At Painting with a Twist everyone is invited to follow along with an instructor and create their own work of art. Families can sign up for which pictures they’d like to participate in creating. The summer camp at Painting with a Twist offers a week of themed art activities, allowing children to create various projects while having fun. Each day focuses on a different piece of artwork, culminating in a pizza party on the final day.
Things to Know:
- Parents don’t need to bring anything — all canvases, paints, brushes, and aprons are provided.
- Children are guided to work independently while still receiving help when needed, boosting confidence and decision-making.
- Some weeks are themed (e.g., “Under the Sea,” “Outer Space,” or “Animal Safari”), encouraging imagination while learning artistic techniques. Ages 6-12 welcome
- The studio is kid-friendly, with trained staff and a secure check-in/check-out process for safety and peace of mind.
- Parents are invited to a Friday “Art Show” where kids proudly display their creations — a favorite part for families!
What families are saying:
One family member shared with Yelp:
Katie, was great with my 6 and 10 year old nieces. They had lots of fun and can’t wait to go back.
Location Details:
- Address: 1202 S. James Campbell Blvd, Ste 14, Columbia, TN 38401
- Phone: (931) 388-0222
- Website: https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/
4. Poiema Studio Gallery
Poiema Studio Gallery provides art classes that focus on developing fine art skills in children, fostering both technical abilities and creative thinking.
Things to Know:
- Covers drawing, painting, and mixed media projects.
- Emphasizes foundational art techniques and personal artistic growth.
- Opportunities for students to showcase their artwork in gallery settings.
- Private lessons. Age discussion available.
What families are saying:
One Facebook fan mentioned,
Pat Barro is a very talented artist and we are so fortunate to have his beautiful artwork here in town. They have art classes available which always make a nice gift.
Location Details:
Website: https://www.poiemastudiogallery.com/
Address: 103 S Main St, Mount Pleasant, Tennessee
Phone: (619) 742-9938
