Art Institute FAQs
Q: Can my student re-take a class they’ve already taken?
A: Yes! Our courses are designed to teach essential skills through various project objectives. Each session, the assignments will change, ensuring anyone retaking the class is not creating the same content twice.
Q: Is my student ready to move up to a more advanced course?
A: That depends! If your student has taken a class at their current level two or more times, is the right age, and/or has work that demonstrates their skill level, they are likely ready to advance to the next level course. If you have questions about your students’ next steps or class pathway, please contact our Artistic Advancement Director at hannarose@thearteffect.org.
Q: What is the difference between your year-round class offerings and Summer Art Institute?
A: During the school year, we offer two sessions of courses: Our Fall Session runs September through December, and the Winter/Spring Sessions run February through June. Students can enroll in one or more classes in their preferred discipline each session. Classes are held 1x a week for 8 weeks.
During the Summer, The Art Effect’s Art Institute and Junior Art Institute are intensive programs for 11-19-year-olds. These programs are not summer camps, but are advanced portfolio-building programs where students learn crucial skills in their preferred discipline. For these programs, students will choose a “track”, either in Fine Art or Digital Art, that determines the classes they take.
Summer/Junior Art Institute is an all-day art-making program consisting of three-four classes and a lunch break. Summer Art Institute runs for 2 or 3-week sessions (every weekday, no weekends), and Junior Art Institute runs for 2-week sessions (every weekday, no weekends).
You can learn more about our summer programs here: https://thearteffect.org/programs/summer-art-institute/
Q: What is an Art Institute Membership?
A: An Art Institute Membership is a yearly payment of $50 that gives families a 5% discount on all Art Institute classes and Summer Arts camps for ages 5-19, as well as early entry to Hudson Valley Regional Portfolio Day, where students can show their work and meet with representatives from top arts colleges. Membership discounts may be combined with other promotions, including early bird and multi-class discounts. Click here to purchase a membership.
Q: Does The Art Effect offer financial assistance or scholarships for families?
A: Yes! The Art Effect offers scholarships every session. Applications are received on a rolling basis up until the scholarship deadline for each session (end of January for Winter/Spring, mid-April for Summer, and beginning of September for Fall). Scholarships are either awarded in partial or full payments toward yearly courses and summer programs (including Dutchess and Ulster Arts Camps).
To apply for a scholarship, please submit an application online via this link: https://connect.thearteffect.org/form/scholarship-application. Your application will be reviewed within 2 weeks.
Q: What does my student need to bring with them to class? Are supplies included?
A: Unless noted in the class description, Art Institute students are required (or strongly encouraged) to bring a sketchbook so they can draft ideas and plan out their projects (sketchbooks can be any size). All other supplies needed for class are provided by The Art Effect.
Q: Where do your classes take place?
A: Year-round courses take place at 45 Pershing Ave, Poughkeepsie. We have a studio/gallery space equipped with everything students need to feel comfortable and focused on their art-making.
Summer program locations are subject to change. 2026 locations are the following:
- Summer and Junior Art Institute at Dutchess Community College
- Dutchess Arts Camp at Oakwood Friends School
- Ulster Arts Camp at SUNY New Paltz, Smiley Art Building
Q: What is The Art Effect’s refund policy?
A: Cancellations up to 30 days prior to the first day of program will receive a full refund. If you cancel more than a week, but less than 30 days before the first day of program, there is a 25% non-refundable deposit for spring and fall classes or $100/week/student for summer programs. Cancellations less than 7 days prior to a program will receive no credit and no refund.
Q: What is Senior Project?
A: Senior Project is the most advanced course we offer, and is only offered during our fall session in September. This capstone program allows participants to define, research, create, and present an original and cohesive body of work. The emphasis is on deep conceptual exploration and technical development to produce a competitive portfolio for college or career opportunities. Senior Project students work in the medium of their choice, developing their unique artistic voice while spending significant time with each piece at home before weekly critiques over the course of 12 weeks. There is an application process to participate, and the course culminates in an exhibition.
To learn more about Senior Project, visit this link: https://thearteffect.org/senior-project.
Q: When do Summer Camp dates become available?
A: Official dates and sessions for Summer Camp and programming will be announced in early February on our website. Families will be able to register for their preferred week(s) of camp online or by calling 845.471.7477. For registration questions, you can also email info@thearteffect.org.
Q: Who teaches your courses?
A: The Art Effect employs working artists and creatives with expertise in their field to lead our classes. To view our current teacher roster, please visit: https://thearteffect.org/about/our-teachers.
Q: Is there a way for Art Institute teachers and parents to communicate directly?
A: Yes! The Art Effect uses an application called Bloomz to make class announcements, keep families informed of class cancellations or weather closures, and communicate with your students’ teachers. Teachers may also upload pictures from the class so you can see the projects your student is working on.
Information will be sent home on the first day of class to download/sign up for Bloomz. Any questions or concerns, please email info@thearteffect.org or call 845.471.7477.
Q: What if my question wasn’t answered here?
A: Let us know! The Art Effect has a contact form for questions just like yours. To ask your question visit: https://thearteffect.org/contact-us.
