Atelier Art is a unique art education approach that combines traditional training with modern techniques. It’s popular in homeschooling, offering structured lessons for kids aged 4-16.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 3.3 million students were homeschooled in the United States as of 2023, representing roughly 6% of the school-age population.
What is Atelier Art?
Atelier is a French word that means 'studio' or 'workshop.' In art education, it refers to a classic training method from the Renaissance. Students learn techniques from master artists. For homeschoolers, it mostly means Atelier Homeschool Art. This is a video-based program by Arts Attack Publications, aimed at kids aged 4-16. Over a million students have used it, making art accessible for families without formal art training. It can also mean a creative space in the Reggio Emilia approach, focusing on child-led exploration.
Atelier homeschool art curriculum
The Arts Attack program offers solid art education through videos. Kids watch a teacher present lessons and see other students work on projects. Each level covers at least three grades, which helps families with multiple kids. The curriculum includes art elements and principles, different media like drawing and painting, art history, cultural appreciation, and right-brain techniques. Parents don’t need art experience. A downloadable teacher manual provides supply lists and assessment tools.
Classical atelier training
Traditional ateliers work quite differently. In classical training, students study full-time under master artists. They start with basic exercises like drawing and value studies before moving on to figure drawing and painting. The sight-size method teaches them to observe closely by comparing models to their artwork at the same scale. This intense training suits serious students aiming for professional careers. However, homeschoolers can find part-time classes at local ateliers if they're interested in this approach.
Creating a home atelier space
Some homeschoolers set up dedicated atelier spaces at home, inspired by the Reggio Emilia education. You don’t need fancy gear. Just choose a corner or table for art supplies that are easy to reach. Stock it with materials like paper, paints, and clay, plus natural and recycled items for mixed media. Add mirrors for different viewpoints. The aim is to create a welcoming space where kids can explore freely without worrying about mess. Here, kids lead their own discovery while parents guide them.
The bottom line
For many homeschool families, Atelier Homeschool Art is a great way to start quality art education. Parents without art backgrounds love the structured lessons and video demos that simplify teaching. The curriculum helps kids develop real skills while keeping art fun. Families interested in classical training or child-led creativity have other options, but the structured approach works well for most homeschoolers wanting meaningful art instruction.
