Harris Art Academy Brings Expressionism and Modern Media to Howell
HOWELL, N.J. — When Harris Art Academy opened its doors in December 2020, it set out to reimagine what art education could look like in Monmouth County. Founded by artist Candice Harris of West Freehold, the school was created to give students of all ages a place to explore creative expression through modern media.
Located at 2211 U.S. Highway 9 North in Howell, the academy began offering classes on December 21, 2020, both in-person and online, with flexible scheduling for families and individuals.
A Different Kind of Art School
Unlike traditional programs, Harris Art Academy emphasizes expressionism and experimentation. Students are encouraged to cross over between media—whether it’s resin, watercolor, acrylic, anime illustration, sneaker design, silk screening, or even YouTube channel creation—instead of staying confined to one path.
“There’s no right or wrong here,” said founder Candice Harris. “We’re trying to change the landscape of art education by teaching foundational skills with today’s materials and giving students the freedom to see where their imagination takes them.”
Classes for Kids and Adults
Classes are open to children as young as 3, as well as adults looking to build or refresh their skills. Sessions run weekdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For those who prefer online learning, the school offers a multi-camera virtual classroom experience with room for up to 100 participants.
Beyond the Classroom
Harris Art Academy doesn’t just teach—it provides platforms for students to share their work. Four weeks each year, the academy becomes a student art gallery, giving artists the opportunity to exhibit and sell their creations. The school also hosts seminars with professional artists, helping students prepare for higher education or careers in the arts.
Supporting the Community Through Art
Harris sees art as more than skill-building—it’s a form of connection.
“Art is critical at this time,” she explained. “People are lonely, kids can’t stay online all the time. They need to try something fun, and we’re committed to producing an experience that broadens creative horizons.”
Looking Ahead
The grand opening celebration in early 2021 featured Victor Sanz, creative director at TUMI, and included a fundraising effort to support students at Pratt Institute, where both Harris and Sanz studied.
Learn More
To explore classes and meet the academy’s creative team, visit Harris Art Academy. You can also follow along on Facebook.
✨ From after-school kids programs to adult workshops, our flexible schedule makes it easy to learn. Explore classes and register here.
This blog is adapted from the original press release, which can be read on PRWeb.