What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently praise Artistic Pursuits for providing a 'real art' education rather than simple crafts, emphasizing its strong integration of art history and technique. Sources like Cathy Duffy and The Homeschool Mom highlight the curriculum's 'open-and-go' nature, which appeals to parents with little artistic background. However, a common concern across forums like Reddit and the Well-Trained Mind is the cost, not just of the books themselves, but of the high-quality, professional-grade supplies required to complete the lessons effectively. While the video lessons in newer editions receive high marks for clarity, some parents of younger children (K-3) find that they still need to be heavily involved in setup and cleanup. Most users agree that the curriculum successfully teaches students to observe the world like an artist rather than just following step-by-step instructions.

How It Works

A typical week consists of two sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes each, where the parent and child begin by reading a short lesson about a specific artist or a period in art history. In newer editions, the child watches a brief video demonstration of a technical skill, such as how to hold a drawing pencil or blend watercolors, before starting their own project. The child then works independently or with minimal guidance to create original art using professional-grade materials like soft pastels, charcoal, or heavy-weight paper. Parents of younger children usually spend about 10 minutes on setup and cleanup, while older students can typically manage the entire 'open-and-go' process at the kitchen table on their own. The focus is on applying a specific technique to an original idea rather than following a rigid, step-by-step craft tutorial.

Switching to This?

Artistic Pursuits does not offer a formal placement test; instead, families should choose a book based on their child's current grade level (K-3, 4-5, Middle School, or High School). A common community rule of thumb is to start at the beginning of a grade-level series even if your child has some art experience, as the curriculum builds foundational skills in a specific sequence using professional tools. Families can easily start mid-year because each lesson is self-contained, though it is best to start at the beginning of a volume to ensure you have all the specific supplies listed in the introductory pages. If you are switching from a craft-based program, expect a transition period where the child learns to observe real-world objects and use 'real' art terminology rather than simply following a pattern.

Curriculum Details

Price

$47 - $275

Individual books with video/streaming access typically range from $47 to $65. Bundles for entire levels (multiple books) range up to approximately $275.

Grades

K - 12

Available As

Print Video Digital

Coverage

Single subject

Subjects

Art

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Pacing

Flexible

Parent Time

10-30 min/day

Parent Involvement

Minimal

Student Independence

Semi-independent

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Academic Level

Above grade level

Worldview

Neutral

Teach Multiple Ages

Yes

Engaging for Reluctant Learners

Yes

Videos

Reviews We Consulted

Updated: March 2026

How This Compares

Compared to Creating a Masterpiece, which relies on highly detailed, step-by-step video instruction to produce a specific finished product, Artistic Pursuits focuses more on teaching general techniques and art history so the child can create their own unique compositions. When weighed against Meet the Masters, which is heavily structured around art history lectures and slideshows, Artistic Pursuits offers a more tactile 'studio' experience where the focus is on the physical application of media like charcoal and clay. For parents choosing between this and Home Art Studio, the primary difference is the materials; Artistic Pursuits requires an investment in artist-grade supplies to teach professional techniques, whereas Home Art Studio often uses more common household craft items for its projects.

Getting Started