Figure Academy at VAI

2900 South 300 West, South Salt Lake, UT, 84043

Taught as an intensive 1-5 week summer program, or as a private 2-day workshop for high school art classes.

SUMMER 2026 SESSIONS

Click on the images below to select a session.

*Figure Academy is taught at Visual Art Institute in South Salt Lake. We offer tuition assistance opportunities.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What is the environment like in a Figure Academy class at VAI?

A: Figure Academy classes are calm, focused, friendly, and respectful. Students work independently, observing the model from their position in the room and concentrating on accurately reproducing what they see. Instructors move around to work with each student, offering observations and support throughout the day. End-of-day critiques are constructive and encouraging.

Q: Are models clothed, partially clothed, or nude at Figure Academy?

A: Our Figure Academy models wear flesh-colored undergarments, so that students can see the important anatomical elements which provide structure to the human form. Some class days may include clothed models, or even costumed models.

Q: Do students who come to Figure Academy need to have a lot of prior drawing & painting experience?

A: Figure Academy is for students ages 12+. Those who register for Figure Academy should have familiarity and a strong interest in drawing & painting people, but do not need to be highly experienced. Though we do take many short breaks and a lunch break, Figure Academy is intensive and classes last several hours. Students should be engaged in their projects, and able to stay focused and working while the model is on the stand.