Learn from industry pros at the best art schools in Singapore!
UNESCO didn’t name Singapore a Creative City of Design by accident. Our art scene is alive and thriving, as Tan Kheng Hua once said.
Prestigious art schools back that strong rep. See, we have institutions that place well in the QS World University Rankings, all while producing graduates who flourish in various creative industries locally and abroad.
Alongside them are independent studios that offer entry points for budding Cheong Soo Piengs (or insert your favourite local artist) and spaces for pure hobbyists. This review looks at both, so you can look into a palette of choices to match your ambition.
How much do art programmes cost in Singapore?
In Singapore, diploma art programmes cost S$8,650–S$9,650 for subsidised citizens (S$3,460–S$3,860 for those over 40), S$12,100–S$13,500 for subsidised permanent residents, and S$29,800–S$30,800 for non-subsidised ones.
Art classes for kids, on the other hand, usually fall between S$45 and S$90 (60–90 minutes), though larger group sessions can run for just S$30–S$45 an hour.
1. Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)
Address: 80 Bencoolen St
Contact Details: +65 6512 4000
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri – 9 am to 5 pm
We had to open with Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). It’s been around since 1938, and the instructors include artists of great renown, such as Chen Wen Hsi and Cheong Soo Pieng.
You’ll also find bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes here across three disciplines: interdisciplinary practices, performing arts, and arts and design. Some entries on this list are limited to a single form.
The admin needs polishing, though. Lots have moaned about the helplines and emails going unanswered, and for a school with premium costs, that’s a headache you’d rather not experience.
NAFA’s general approach comes across well, fortunately. Both research and hands-on training are given importance, and their educators look into emerging tech to produce future-ready students.
They even have ties with equally prominent universities, including London’s Royal College of Music and the University of Arts London. Students can participate in study trips and exchange programmes in such institutions.
Always Warm
I would like to give my highest recommendation to Suzette. She was extremely helpful when I brought my son to learn more about the school and during the application process. She explained everything clearly, answered all our questions patiently, and was always warm and smiling. Truly grateful for her support and professionalism
– Mabel Lim, Google Review
Love the Experience Here
I used to study there at NAFA Campus One, love the experience here, and miss it too. Great place to hang out with friends and place to chill after school. Since now most of the facilities has upgraded, alot have change since then after my graduation.
– Afi Hafiz, Google Review
2. LASALLE College of the Arts
Address: 1 McNally St
Contact Details: +65 6496 5000
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri – 9 am to 6 pm
LASALLE is a brilliant pick if you’re after a big-stage career, as QS named it Southeast Asia’s best school for performing arts.
That said, it’s not all drama here. Thirty-six diploma, bachelor’s, and master’s programmes for creative writing, design, animation, arts management, film, and arts therapy are offered.
It’s big on practice-led learning as well. You’ll often catch their students in performances, workshops, studios, and exhibits.
Sadly, not everyone loves their personnel, mainly the guards and librarians. Those we spoke with specifically mentioned red flags such as rudeness and stuck-up behaviour.
Email responses could also be clearer. A couple of parents and students reported getting vague answers to specific questions.
On a more positive note, LASALLE has notable alumni and professors. We’re talking about a roster of famed and decorated artists, with Dr Adam Knee, Amanda Heng, Kit Chan, and Cheryl Chou as some examples.
The campus is equipped with modern facilities
LASALLE College of the Arts offers a range of programmes focused on arts, design, and creative practice. The campus is equipped with modern facilities that support both academic learning and professional development.
– Edarabia Singapore, Google Review
Convenient
Lovely place for art enthusiasts. The blocks are arranged opposite each other with an open space in the centre for a myriad of activities including musical performances, etc. An awesome place to chill out yet protected from the sun and the rain. Ample parking lots in the basement and a stone throw away from eating outlets. Convenient.
– Shirley “MuseFaery” NKL, Google Review
3. Little Artists Art Studio
Address: 15 Siglap Rd, #01-07 The Mandarin Gardens
Contact Details: +65 6449 0960
Operating Hours:
- Mon to Thu – 10 am to 7:30 pm
- Sat to Sun – 9:30 am to 7:30 pm
Brushing up on foundational skills is Little Artists’ speciality. Since 1997, the studio has been a nurturing space for children, teens, and adults interested in fine arts.
And yes, that means there’s a programme for different age brackets, starting at 2.5 years old. The main practice areas are sketching, drawing, and painting, though holiday camps spice things up by exploring other forms, such as sculpture and manga.
Students, especially those hoping to enter local and international art schools, can also enrol in portfolio preparation courses. Many landed in SOTA, Parsons, NAFA, and Pratt, proving their system works!
On top of that, teacher-to-student ratios are kept low, typically 1:8 or 1:4.
The drawback? In-demand programmes, particularly those for children, sell out fast, so it’s a good idea to book ahead.
What’s more, they generally charge by course and not by the hour. That could be a financial burden for some.
Extremely Patient
My son has been studying Art for the last 3 years at Little Artists and I can vouch for their patience & genuine interest in students even with varying degrees of abilities & understanding. Their teachers have art certifications and are capable of teaching multiple art techniques across various medium. They are extremely patient and shape children’s interests in arts whether it is for further academic progress or personal interest. I would really recommend Little Artists to other parents & students.
– Arts2004 Tg, Google Review
I have learned a lot
The art class is really good, and the teacher is very nice. I have been coming here for 10 years, and I have learned a lot. It is a very conducive environment, and it feels safe for students to show their skills and express their emotions. No one judges you based on your skill level—what matters most is that we enjoy the classes. Not only that, this place is also committed to teaching students and helping them build a strong portfolio for college or any art school.
– Rania Laizka, Google Review
4. MAGES Institute of Excellence
Address: 2 Orchard Link SCAPE, #05-11 Near Somerset MRT
Contact Details: +65 8881 3256
Operating Hours:
- Mon to Fri – 9:30 am to 6 pm
- Sat – 9 am to 1:30 pm
If you want a career in digital art, MAGES is one safe bet. I mean, The Rookies included it in their top 50 and top 10 lists for creative media and concept art schools in the world!
Game design and art dominate the curriculum, often explored through full-time programmes, masterclasses, and workshops. The courses span visual storytelling, AR/VR experiences, game business management, 3D modelling, and more.
When it comes to bumps, the limited scope is most obvious. You won’t learn about theatre or acrylic painting here.
The heavy workload is another snag. Those simply dabbling in digital art might get overwhelmed.
Can’t knock on MAGES’ faculty, though. Classes are run by pros from Triple-A studios like Epic Games, giving students a better sense of industry expectations.
Even their software range is pro-grade. Last we checked, Unreal (they’re an Unreal Academic Partner), ZBrush, and Compare Blender are provided.
The mentors are exceptional
I joined the Concept Art program at MAGES Institute and it completely transformed the way I approach visual storytelling. The course doesn’t just focus on drawing skills — it trains your mind to think like an artist, to interpret ideas, and to build worlds from imagination. Each assignment challenged me to refine my perspective, composition, and design thinking.
The mentors are exceptional and give individual attention, helping you identify your strengths and push your creative boundaries. The exposure to industry tools and feedback sessions prepared me for real production pipelines.
By the end of the program, I could confidently create character concepts, environment designs, and storyboards that looked professional enough for a portfolio. For anyone who wants to turn creativity into a career, the Concept Art program at MAGES is a brilliant.
– Gaurav Raina, Google Review
True Professionals
I enrolled in the 3D Modeling and Game Art program at MAGES Institute, and it has been one of the most rewarding learning experiences I’ve had. The curriculum is very industry-driven, covering everything from concept sculpting to advanced texturing and lighting. The faculty members are true professionals who guide you through every challenge while encouraging creative exploration.
What I particularly appreciated was the hands-on approach — every module is project-based, which helped me build a strong portfolio and gain real production-level exposure.
If you’re serious about building a career in 3D or gaming, MAGES is a place that truly shapes both your technical skills and artistic vision. Highly recommended!
– Priya Guleria, Google Review
5. Global Art Singapore
Address: 3 Simei Street 6, #06-03
Contact Details: +65 6538 9613
Operating Hours:
- Wed – 11:30 am to 7:30 pm
- Thu – 12:30 to 9 pm
- Sat – 10 am to 6:30 pm
- Sun – 10 am to 6:30 pm
Global Art can give your little one a creative head-start. They have a bunch of programmes that focus on art enrichment, and your kid can start as young as 3 years old!
From what I’ve seen, the structure is pretty systematic and age-appropriate. My niece’s initial class, for instance, first revolved around developing motor and social skills before moving to the basics, like colouring.
The teaching style is also more process-driven than outcome-based, which is great for exploration and confidence boosting.
But they do organise competitions for real-world exposure. Personally, I believe it balances things out.
We love the medium variety too. Students can switch between drawing, painting, handicraft, sculpting, and even comics.
Unsurprisingly, adult-geared programmes are quite limited. Painting courses are offered at the Hougang Rivercourt branch, but that’s about it.
You can’t slack on booking either. With a 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, seats can vanish fast.
Nurturing Environment
My son has been attending Global Art Buangkok Square for 2+ years, and it has been such a wonderful journey. The teachers especially Mr Lee and Teacher Zila are patient, encouraging and creative, helping him grow not only in his art skills but also in confidence and imagination. He always looks forward to class and enjoys expressing himself through art. We’re so grateful for the nurturing environment and highly recommend this school to other parents looking for a fun and inspiring place for their children to learn art.
– karie leong, Google Review
Very Remarkable
My girl’s first and only art class and she lives it so much. The teacher’s attention for the kid’s development is very remarkable. We love global art as it provides the fundamental of coloring, drawing for the next level.
– Ocktavia Sari, Google Review