How to Join Art Class at Herron School Indianapolis

The Herron School of Art and Design at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) stands as one of the most respected art institutions in the Midwest. With a legacy dating back to 1886, Herron offers a dynamic environment for aspiring artists, designers, and creatives of all backgrounds. Whether you're a high school student exploring your passion, a working professional seeking to refine your skills, or an adult learner returning to the studio after years away, joining an art class at Herron opens doors to mentorship, technical mastery, and creative community. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step pathway to enroll in art classes at Herron School Indianapolis—covering everything from eligibility and application procedures to portfolio preparation and financial considerations. By following this guide, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and a clear roadmap to begin your artistic journey at one of the nation’s most influential art schools.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Determine Your Goals and Class Type

Before beginning the enrollment process, take time to reflect on why you want to join an art class. Are you seeking academic credit toward a degree? Are you looking to develop foundational skills in drawing or painting? Or are you interested in short-term workshops to explore a new medium like ceramics or digital design? Herron offers multiple pathways:

• Degree Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and interdisciplinary degrees.
• Continuing Education: Non-credit courses for adults and community members.
• Summer Youth Programs: For high school students interested in pre-college art experiences.
• Community Workshops: One-day or weekend intensive sessions open to all ages.

Identifying your goal will determine which enrollment path to follow. For example, if you’re seeking a degree, you’ll apply through the university admissions office. If you’re an adult learner interested in painting or sculpture on a part-time basis, you’ll register through the Continuing Education portal.

Step 2: Research Available Courses

Herron’s course offerings are extensive and updated each semester. Visit the official Herron School of Art and Design website and navigate to the “Courses” or “Academics” section. Here, you can browse by discipline:

• Painting and Drawing
• Sculpture and Expanded Media
• Graphic Design
• Photography and Digital Media
• Ceramics and Glass
• Art Education
• Art History and Theory

Each course listing includes prerequisites, credit hours, meeting times, and instructor bios. For non-degree seekers, look for courses labeled “Continuing Education” or “Community Classes.” These often have no formal admission requirements and are open to the public.

Tip: Bookmark the course catalog and set calendar reminders for registration open dates. Popular classes—especially those taught by renowned faculty—fill up quickly.

Step 3: Check Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility varies by program type:

• Degree Applicants: Must have a high school diploma or GED. International students require proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) and visa documentation.
• Continuing Education Students: No formal prerequisites. Open to anyone 16 years and older. Minors under 18 may require parental consent for certain classes.
• Summer Youth Programs: Typically for students entering grades 9–12. Portfolio or teacher recommendation may be requested for advanced tracks.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, review the program-specific pages on Herron’s website. Many courses list “no experience necessary,” making them ideal for beginners.

Step 4: Prepare Required Materials

Depending on your enrollment path, you may need to submit materials such as:

• Transcripts: Official high school or college transcripts for degree applicants.
• Portfolio: Required for BFA and MFA applicants. Must include 10–20 original works demonstrating technical skill, conceptual thinking, and creative range.
• Personal Statement: A 500–750 word essay explaining your artistic motivations, goals, and why you’re drawn to Herron.
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually two from educators, mentors, or professionals familiar with your artistic abilities.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee (typically $50–$75) for degree applications.

For continuing education classes, you typically only need to complete an online registration form and provide payment. No portfolio or essays are required.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

For degree programs, applications are submitted through the Indiana University Office of Admissions portal. Follow these steps:

1. Create an IU applicant account at admissions.iu.edu.
2. Select “Herron School of Art and Design” as your intended major.
3. Upload transcripts, portfolio, personal statement, and recommendation letters.
4. Pay the application fee using a credit card.
5. Submit before the deadline: typically January 15 for fall admission, with rolling admissions available for spring.

For continuing education and community classes, visit the Herron Continuing Education page and click “Register Now.” You’ll be directed to a simple form where you select your course, provide contact details, and pay online. Payment is due at time of registration to secure your spot.

Step 6: Wait for Confirmation and Acceptance

For degree applicants, decisions are typically released between February and April. You’ll receive an email notification and access to your IU student portal. If accepted, you’ll be invited to complete enrollment steps, including orientation and course scheduling.

For continuing education students, confirmation is immediate upon payment. You’ll receive a registration receipt via email, along with a syllabus and classroom location details one week before the course begins.

Step 7: Prepare for Your First Class

Once enrolled, prepare for your first session:

• Review the syllabus: Understand required materials, weekly assignments, and grading criteria.
• Purchase supplies: Herron provides a recommended supply list for each course. Visit the campus bookstore or local art retailers like Blick Art Materials or Art Supply Warehouse.
• Plan your schedule: Classes are held Monday–Friday during daytime hours, with evening and weekend options available for continuing education.
• Visit the campus: Take a walk around the Herron campus at 735 W. New York Street. Familiarize yourself with studio locations, restrooms, and the library.
• Connect with peers: Join Herron’s student Facebook groups or Instagram pages to meet fellow students before class begins.

Don’t be intimidated if you’re new to art. Many students begin with zero experience and leave with a strong portfolio and lifelong creative habits.

Best Practices

Start Early and Plan Ahead

One of the most common mistakes applicants make is waiting until the last minute. Degree application deadlines are strict, and popular continuing education classes fill within hours of registration opening. Begin researching courses at least three to six months in advance. Mark key dates on your calendar: application opens, portfolio submission deadline, registration day, and orientation.

Build a Strong Portfolio (Even If Not Required)

Even if you’re enrolling in a non-degree class, creating a portfolio of your work is a powerful practice. It helps you track progress, identify strengths, and communicate your artistic voice. Use a simple digital portfolio via Google Sites, Behance, or Instagram. Include sketches, finished pieces, and process photos. This habit will serve you whether you later apply to a degree program or seek exhibition opportunities.

Attend Open Houses and Campus Tours

Herron hosts open houses each semester for prospective students. These events allow you to meet faculty, tour studios, and ask questions in person. Even if you’re not applying for a degree, attending a tour gives you insight into the school’s culture and helps you choose the right class. Check the Herron Events calendar for upcoming dates.

Engage With the Community

Herron is more than a school—it’s a creative ecosystem. Attend student exhibitions at the Herron Galleries, participate in critique sessions, and join student-run organizations like the Art Students League. These experiences deepen your learning and build professional networks. Many artists credit their breakthroughs to conversations started in the hallway between classes.

Manage Your Time Wisely

Art classes require consistent effort. Unlike traditional lecture courses, studio classes demand hands-on work outside of class hours. Plan for 3–5 hours of studio time per week for each 3-credit course. Set up a dedicated space at home for practice. Use a planner to track assignments and deadlines. Consistency beats intensity—showing up regularly matters more than cramming.

Embrace Feedback and Critique

Herron’s pedagogy is rooted in constructive critique. Instructors and peers will offer direct feedback on your work. This can feel vulnerable, especially early on. Learn to see critique not as judgment but as a tool for growth. Take notes, ask clarifying questions, and return to your work with renewed focus. The ability to receive and apply feedback is one of the most valuable skills you’ll develop.

Explore Interdisciplinary Opportunities

Don’t limit yourself to one medium. Herron encourages cross-disciplinary exploration. A painter might take a digital design class. A sculptor might enroll in art history. These intersections spark innovation. Look for courses labeled “Interdisciplinary Studio” or “Collaborative Practice.” They often lead to unexpected creative breakthroughs.

Stay Informed About Scholarships and Financial Aid

Financial barriers should not prevent access to art education. Herron offers merit-based scholarships for degree students and sliding-scale tuition for continuing education. Visit the Financial Aid page and complete the FAFSA if you’re pursuing a degree. For non-degree students, inquire about payment plans or community grants available through local arts councils.

Tools and Resources

Official Herron School Website

The primary hub for all enrollment information is herron.iu.edu. Here you’ll find:

• Course catalogs and schedules
• Faculty profiles and research
• Application portals
• Event calendars
• Student gallery exhibitions

Bookmark this site and check it weekly for updates.

Canvas Learning Platform

Once enrolled, you’ll gain access to Canvas, Herron’s online learning management system. Here, instructors post assignments, share lecture videos, and provide feedback. Familiarize yourself with Canvas early—uploading work, submitting reflections, and checking announcements happens here.

Art Supply Stores in Indianapolis

Local vendors offer convenient access to materials:

• Blick Art Materials (Broad Ripple): Largest selection in the region. Offers student discounts.
• Art Supply Warehouse (Downtown): Budget-friendly bulk supplies.
• Herron Campus Bookstore: Convenient for last-minute needs and course-specific kits.

Tip: Ask for a student ID discount at checkout. Many stores honor Herron student IDs even for continuing education participants.

Library and Research Resources

The Herron Library, located in the main building, holds over 20,000 art books, exhibition catalogs, and digital archives. Students have 24/7 access during the semester. Librarians are available for research consultations on art history, theory, and technique. Use the online catalog to reserve books or request interlibrary loans.

Mobile Apps for Artists

Enhance your learning with these free or low-cost apps:

• Adobe Fresco: Digital painting and sketching app ideal for practicing composition.
• Procreate (iPad): Industry-standard digital art tool for illustration and design.
• Google Arts & Culture: Explore museum collections worldwide for inspiration.
• Sketchbook by Autodesk: Lightweight drawing app perfect for on-the-go sketching.
• Color Hunt: Discover curated color palettes to inspire your work.

Community Art Organizations

Extend your learning beyond Herron by engaging with Indianapolis’s vibrant art scene:

• Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: Free admission for Herron students; hosts artist talks and workshops.
• Artsgarden: Offers public art events and community collaborations.
• Indy Arts Council: Grants and opportunities for emerging artists.
• Chalk It Up Indy: Annual street painting festival open to participants of all levels.

Portfolio Review Services

If you’re applying for a degree program and unsure about your portfolio, consider a pre-submission review:

• Herron Admissions Office: Offers free portfolio consultations by appointment.
• Local Art Teachers: Many high school and community college art teachers provide feedback for a small fee.
• Online Communities: Reddit’s r/ArtSchool and r/PortfolioReview offer constructive critiques from peers.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, High School Senior to BFA Student

Maria, a 17-year-old from Carmel, Indiana, knew she wanted to study fine arts but wasn’t sure how to start. She began by attending a Herron summer workshop in drawing and painting. The experience confirmed her passion. She then researched the BFA program, met with an admissions counselor, and spent three months building her portfolio. Her submission included 15 pieces: charcoal portraits, abstract landscapes, and a series on urban isolation. She wrote a personal statement about her grandmother’s quilts and how they inspired her use of pattern and texture. Maria was accepted into the BFA program with a partial merit scholarship. She now mentors incoming students and exhibits in the Herron Galleries.

Example 2: James, Retired Engineer Taking Ceramics

James, 68, retired after 40 years as an engineer and wanted to explore creativity. He enrolled in a 10-week ceramics course through Herron’s Continuing Education program. He had never touched clay before. The instructor, a practicing ceramicist, taught hand-building techniques and glaze chemistry. James found the class therapeutic and made a series of vessels inspired by industrial forms. He now attends weekly open studio hours and has sold two pieces at a local craft fair. “I didn’t know I had this in me,” he says. “Herron gave me permission to play.”

Example 3: Aisha, International Student from Nigeria

Aisha moved to Indianapolis from Lagos to pursue an MFA in sculpture. She navigated visa paperwork, submitted a portfolio of mixed-media installations exploring identity and migration, and wrote her statement in English—a language she was still mastering. She was accepted and received a graduate assistantship that covered tuition. She now teaches undergraduate drawing and leads a weekly critique group for international students. “Herron didn’t just teach me art,” she says. “It taught me how to speak my truth through it.”

Example 4: Teenagers in the Summer Youth Program

Each summer, Herron hosts a two-week intensive for rising 9th–12th graders. One group of five teens spent their days exploring printmaking, digital collage, and installation art. They collaborated on a final exhibition titled “My City, My Voice,” displayed in the Herron Gallery. One student, 15-year-old Malik, created a mixed-media piece using recycled bus passes and spray paint to comment on public transit access. His work was later featured in a regional youth art show. “I didn’t think my art mattered,” Malik says. “Now I know it does.”

FAQs

Do I need prior art experience to join a class at Herron?

No. Many courses, especially in continuing education, are designed for beginners. You don’t need to know how to draw or paint to enroll. The curriculum is structured to build skills from the ground up.

Can I take classes without being enrolled in a degree program?

Yes. Herron offers non-credit continuing education courses open to the public. These are ideal for adults, retirees, and community members seeking personal enrichment.

How much do art classes cost?

Costs vary:

• Degree Programs: In-state tuition is approximately $10,000 per year; out-of-state is around $30,000. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
• Continuing Education: Most courses range from $150 to $450, depending on length and materials.
• Summer Youth Programs: Typically $300–$600 for two weeks, with need-based scholarships available.

Are there evening or weekend classes available?

Yes. While most degree courses are held during the day, continuing education offers evening and Saturday classes in popular disciplines like drawing, painting, and digital design.

What if I miss the application deadline?

For degree programs, deadlines are firm. However, some programs accept late applications on a case-by-case basis if space remains. For continuing education, registration is open until the class fills or begins—often into the first week of the semester.

Can I audit a class without enrolling?

Yes. Auditing is permitted for some continuing education courses with instructor approval. You’ll pay a reduced fee and attend without receiving credit or grades.

Do I need to buy expensive supplies?

Not necessarily. Herron provides shared studio equipment, including kilns, printing presses, and easels. Basic supplies like sketchbooks, pencils, and paint are affordable. Many students begin with under $100 in materials.

Is there parking available on campus?

Yes. Herron has designated student parking in nearby lots. A daily permit costs $5, and a semester pass is $75. Public transit (IndyGo) also serves the campus with multiple bus lines.

Can I transfer credits from another art school to Herron?

Yes. Degree applicants can submit transcripts for evaluation. Herron accepts transfer credits for equivalent studio and art history courses, subject to faculty review.

What happens if a class is full?

Join the waitlist. Many students drop courses in the first week, and spots open up. You’ll be notified if a space becomes available.

Are there opportunities to exhibit my work?

Absolutely. Herron hosts over 20 exhibitions annually in its galleries. Students at all levels can submit work for juried shows. Continuing education students are also invited to participate in community exhibitions.

Conclusion

Joining an art class at Herron School of Art and Design in Indianapolis is more than an enrollment—it’s an invitation to grow, question, and create. Whether you’re stepping into a studio for the first time or returning after decades away, Herron offers the space, support, and structure to nurture your artistic voice. The journey begins with a single step: choosing a class, filling out a form, or walking through the doors of the historic building on New York Street.

The tools are ready. The instructors are waiting. The materials are waiting on the shelf. What matters most is your willingness to begin.

Art is not reserved for the gifted. It is for the curious. For the persistent. For those who dare to make something that didn’t exist before.

So take the leap. Register. Show up. Create.

Your art is waiting to be made.