At Atelier School of Art in Royal Oak, Michigan, we welcome students of all ages who want to explore their creativity through painting and drawing. Many of our senior students come to the studio later in life, eager to learn something new and find joy in creating beautiful art. Classes are ongoing all year, several of them meet in the middle of the day, and you can start on the first day of class in any month.
The Science Behind Painting for Seniors
Research shows that engaging in artistic practices, especially painting, has measurable benefits for brain health and overall wellness:
- Neuroplasticity: Studies published in Frontiers in Psychology demonstrate that learning new skills like painting promotes neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This is particularly important for seniors, as it helps maintain memory and cognitive function.
- Improved Cognitive Function: According to research from the National Institutes of Health, older adults who participate in creative activities like painting show better problem-solving skills, enhanced focus, and stronger executive function compared to peers who don’t engage in the arts.
- Stress Reduction: Painting has also been linked to reduced cortisol levels, leading to less stress and improved emotional health. Seniors often report a calming effect while painting, similar to meditation.
- Social Engagement: Classes at our Royal Oak art studio give seniors the chance to meet new people, share ideas, and build friendships — all of which contribute to longer, healthier lives.
Painting as a Lifelong Learning Journey
At Atelier School of Art, we teach all new students — regardless of age — the fundamentals through classical academic training. Seniors who walk into our studio begin with the same timeless approach as younger students: learning light, shadow, and composition by painting simple subjects like a bowl of fruit or a glass of milk. From there, they grow into more advanced works of art with confidence.
Our older students often remark that the process reminds them that it’s never too late to learn and achieve something new. Some paint for personal enrichment, while others discover a true passion that becomes part of their daily life.
Why Choose Atelier School of Art in Royal Oak?
- Conveniently located in Royal Oak, Michigan, close to Birmingham, Ferndale, and the greater Detroit area.
- A welcoming, supportive environment for adults and seniors of all skill levels.
- A proven teaching process that combines classical art training with personal creativity.
- Small class sizes to ensure personal attention from experienced instructors.
A Place to Grow, Create, and Thrive
Painting at Atelier School of Art is more than just learning technique — it’s about growth, joy, and transformation. Seniors in our classes find themselves sharper, happier, and more connected, both in the studio and in everyday life.
If you or a loved one are a senior looking for a rewarding and enriching experience, our studio is here to guide you every step of the way.
👉 Learn more at atelierschoolofart.com or visit us in Royal Oak, Michigan, to begin your artistic journey today.
Daytime classes seniors join most often
Atelier Painting
Mondays 10-1 pm and 2-5 pm. Tuesdays 10-1 pm and 2-5 pm. Wednesdays 2-5 pm. Thursdays 2-5 pm. Saturdays 10-1 pm. Sundays 1-4 pm.
Tuition: Member $247, Non Member $286 every four weeks. An optional materials package is available for $80 a month, so there is nothing to buy before your first class.
Our oil painting program is open to all levels, including students who have never painted before. You begin with guided exercises on simple subjects, light, shadow and composition, and move into independent work at your own pace.
Atelier Drawing
Mondays 2-5 pm. Saturdays 1-4 pm.
Tuition: Member $247, Non Member $286 every four weeks.
College-level drawing fundamentals covering materials, perspective, sight measuring, composition, block-ins and shading, suitable for complete beginners.
Art From Life
Mondays 10-1 pm.
Tuition: Member $271, Non Member $310 every four weeks, model fee included.
Painting and drawing from direct observation, with regular feedback and live demonstrations.
The Artist’s Practice with Armin Mersmann
Wednesdays 10-1 pm, every other week, primarily on Zoom for students who would rather create from home.
Tuition: Member $123.50, Non Member $143 every four weeks.
How to join a class
Classes meet once a week for three hours and tuition is billed every four weeks, so there is no long commitment to sign for. Newly enrolled students begin on the first day of class each month, and an Atelier Membership at $255 a year takes 15% off every class you enroll in. The studio is at 407 E 4th St, Royal Oak, MI 48067, close to Birmingham, Ferndale and the greater Detroit area. Call (248) 951-4400 with any question about which class suits you, or register online and we will see you in the studio.