ZAFA High School Studio Program
Portfolio Development & Classical Training
Tuesdays, 4:00–6:00 PM
Zwick Academy of Fine Art · Chinatown, Honolulu
$300/month · Ongoing enrollment
Ongoing weekly studio instruction for high school students focused on developing strong drawing and painting skills while building a portfolio for college applications. Students receive individualized guidance within a structured classical fine art program.
The ZAFA High School Studio Program is an ongoing drawing and painting program designed specifically for high school students who are serious about developing their artistic skills and building a strong portfolio for college applications.
All skill levels are welcome. Students do not need prior classical training to join the program. Instruction is individualized to meet each student at their current level and help them progress from there.
Rather than approaching portfolio development as a collection of disconnected projects, the High School program focuses on building the fundamental skills that allow students to create stronger, more individual work. Students receive structured instruction in drawing, painting, composition, perspective, value, color, and working from observation while gradually applying these skills to increasingly ambitious projects.
Learn the Skills. Build the Portfolio.
Throughout the program, students will work on larger projects selected with college portfolio requirements in mind. Each project serves two purposes: developing an important artistic skill and creating a finished work with the potential to become part of the student's portfolio.
Students will develop work from direct observation as well as more personal and independently conceived projects. As their skills progress, they will be encouraged to make increasingly thoughtful decisions about subject matter, composition, and artistic intent.
The goal is not simply to produce a required number of portfolio pieces. It is to help each student develop the technical foundation, independence, and visual understanding necessary to create a body of work that genuinely represents what they are capable of.
Ongoing Individualized Instruction
The High School Studio Program is designed as an ongoing program rather than a short-term workshop. Students can continue developing over time, allowing instruction to build from one project to the next.
Classes combine demonstrations and group instruction with substantial individual guidance. Because students progress at different rates and enter the program with different levels of experience, projects and instruction can be adapted to meet each student where they are while maintaining a strong foundation in the principles of drawing and painting.
Who Is This Program For?
The High School Studio Program is intended for students who want to take their artwork seriously—whether they are already planning to apply to an art or design program or simply want a more rigorous art education than they may currently have access to.
No advanced experience is required. What matters most is a willingness to learn, practice, and put sustained effort into developing as an artist.
Have questions or not quite ready to enroll? Fill out the form below and we’ll be happy to tell you more about the program and help you decide if it’s a good fit.