How it began…
Artist Candice Harris of West Freehold saw a need in the community for a different kind of art school, with flexible instruction and creative exploration. On 12/21/2019 in the height of Covid, most businesses were closing, HARRIS. Art Academy opened their doors in Howell, NJ at 2211 U.S. Highway 9 North.
Harris explained that her novel approach to art instruction is driven by the passion to support aspiring artists (ages 4+) and giving them the tools, they need to succeed in today’s art world. “We are changing the landscape of art education,” said Harris. “We’re going to teach the foundational skills using today’s materials and give students an experience they won’t find elsewhere.
Typical art classes are not being taught using modern media that make sense today, nor taught in environments that foster broader creative expression. HARRIS. Art Academy is not old school, it’s expressionism.” Addressing the contemporary art world, HARRIS. Art Academy will also offer classes in sequential drawing, anime, comics, resin, watercolor, oil, acrylic, paper maché, illustration, pour painting, digital arts, gaming design, sneaker design, print making, silk screening, graffiti, DIY and so much more. Students will be able to cross platforms to explore different media and styles, in classes offered in flexible blocks of months, with the ability to attend as “members” personal schedules permit.
“HARRIS. Art Academy is the only program where no one has to be stuck in one platform or class, if it’s not working for them creatively. There’s no right or wrong here, no rigidity; it’s about expressing yourself and seeing where your imagination takes you.
“We’re going to make a mess here as students keep advancing and trying new mediums that attract them,” said Harris.
In addition to classes, HARRIS. Art Academy will host pop-up classes—led by noted artists—to help nurture students who are pursuing a formal arts education. Four weeks per calendar year, the academy will become an art gallery for students to exhibit and sell their artwork, to celebrate the students, instructors and community. Students will vote on a charity and can participate for credit volunteer hours in which most districts require at the Highschool level. HARRIS. Art Academy will participate in a fundraising celebration of art masterpieces created only at our schools made throughout the year. Students along with parents are given the materials needed for participation.
Check out our first fundraiser at our Howell, NJ location. Over 500+ people attended, we made multiple news outlets about our event and shined a light on our selected charity METAvivor, raising money for Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer.
12/2/2022 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8cGazrmInA
“Art is critical at this time; as technologies continue to change the world, our future depends on the art education of our students today. Creative minds needs a place in their community that feel safe, welcoming and support individuality while allowing big brain thinkers to broaden their creative horizons, and expand the landscape of what modern art concepts look like today,” said Harris. “My team and I are committed to producing an awesome experience for everyone.”
You can also follow on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Harris-Art-Academy.
“HARRIS. ART ACADEMY, provides a
non-competitive art environment that nurtures students at all art levels. We are excited to bring creativity up to speed with today’s current mediums and creative industry leaders.”
– Candice Harris
Harris Art Academy is where creativity is reimagined.
Located in Howell, NJ, we provide high-quality art education rooted in the fundamentals while offering innovative workshops and engaging events for all ages. From foundational training in the Elements and Principles of Art & Design to unique experiences like Splatter Paint Nights, Canvas & Cocoa, and gallery dinners, we make art both accessible and inspiring.
Our Mission
At Harris Art Academy, our mission is to reimagine creativity by blending high-quality art education with engaging community experiences. We are committed to teaching the fundamentals of art while encouraging students of all ages to respect the artistic process, develop craftsmanship, and express their individuality.
We believe art is more than a skill — it is a journey. By combining foundations, creativity, and innovation, we strive to make Howell, NJ a center of art and inspiration, and to become the region’s leading source for art education.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be the leader in art education, providing students with lessons that build skills, confidence, and creativity. We are committed to teaching new techniques while honoring the rich history and foundations of art.
At Harris Art Academy, we embrace innovation — adapting to new technology, exploring fresh methods, and expanding artistic techniques — so that every student can grow as both a creator and thinker. We believe that being an artist means being professional at being creative — respecting the craft, practicing with discipline, and taking pride in every expression.
We also value the flexibility to be creative and fluid with the environment around us, teaching students to adapt, respond, and find inspiration in every situation.
By blending tradition with progress, we aim to make art an accessible, evolving, and transformative experience for all.
What We Do
At Harris Art Academy, we provide more than art classes — we create experiences. We teach the fundamentals of art through the Elements and Principles of Design, helping students of all ages build skills and confidence.
Alongside education, we host innovative workshops and community-centered events that make creativity accessible, memorable, and fun.
Whether you’re here to learn, create, or connect, Harris Art Academy makes art inspiring for everyone.is.