Art schools are a popular choice among aspiring artists who yearn to gain new knowledge and hone their skills under the tutelage of art professionals. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether an art school is a golden ticket or an unworthy investment, and that’s why many beginners usually find themselves at a crossroads between an art college, school, and self-taught practice. Let’s try not to deflect our attention to different options simultaneously and analyze how to decide whether a school is good for you. The following questions might help you crack the complicated life conundrum on your way.

Four Questions to Ask Yourself Before Going to Art Schools

1. How good are you at what you create?

It goes without saying, established artists don’t normally go to art schools. If you are an experienced person who already knows a lot about the chosen art mediums, it might be unprofitable for you to pursue a formal art education. Schools are more suitable for people asking themselves, “What should I do with my artistic talent?” and “What do I want to create?”

2. Are learning in groups okay for you?

Class size is a major factor for those who want to plunge into studying right away. Truth be told, it is usually much better than a regular high school, and yet you still have the natural need for attention. If working together with other people is not something that makes you uncomfortable, then you are good to go.

3. How competitive are you?

With other artists in the class comes competition – it is always like that. Even if it is “unofficial,” you will most certainly feel it in the air. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you should be the best of the best, but you will need to learn how to become a better version of yourself under pressure.

4. Can you cope with criticism well?

Criticism is never personal, but it usually feels like that, especially when it comes to the artworks that you spend a lot of time creating at art schools. However, not all critique is useful, and it is healthier to separate useful and constructive criticism from noisy complaints. Know the difference to preserve your sanity.

To Go or Not to Go?

Honest answers to these questions can help you understand whether art schools are the place where you belong as an artist. It is not a paradise, so you should get ready for some hellish things that might fall on your head.