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Best Art Classes & Creative Workshops in the Hamptons

The Hamptons aren’t just about beaches and fine dining—they’re also a creative haven for artists, makers, and craft lovers. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, East Hampton offers a variety of hands-on workshops to explore your creativity.

From collage-making and felting to traditional painting and mixed media, this guide will help you discover the best art classes and creative workshops in the Hamptons for 2025.

art classes and creative workshops in New York

Where to Take Art Classes in East Hampton

The Hamptons have a rich artistic tradition, and these top venues offer regular workshops in painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media.

1. Guild Hall – East Hampton’s Premier Art & Cultural Hub

📍 Location: 158 Main St, East Hampton, NY 11937
🎟️ Workshops Available: Painting, collage, felting, embroidery, and more
🖌️ Best For: Beginners to advanced artists looking for hands-on experiences

Guild Hall hosts seasonal Art Social workshops, offering a fun and welcoming space to create art with expert instructors.

2025 Art Social Workshops at Guild Hall

  • Wet Felting a Vessel with Kerry Sharkey-Miller – April 21, 2025
  • Crewelwork with Erica-Lynn Huberty – May 19, 2025
  • Ornament Making (Holiday Workshop) – November 17, 2025
  • Holiday Sweater Felt Embellishment with Laurie Lambrecht – December 15, 2025

Pro Tip: Guild Hall workshops often sell out—register early!

2. The Art Barge – Painting & Drawing by the Water

📍 Location: 110 Napeague Meadow Rd, Amagansett, NY 11930
🖌️ Best For: Those looking for an immersive outdoor art experience

This historic floating art school offers painting, figure drawing, and sculpture classes in a unique setting by the water. It’s perfect for plein air artists and nature lovers!

Popular Classes:

  • Watercolor Landscape Painting
  • Life Drawing with Live Models
  • Printmaking for Beginners

3. Golden Eagle Art – Year-Round Creative Workshops

📍 Location: 144 North Main St, East Hampton, NY 11937
🖌️ Best For: Adults & kids looking for ongoing classes

Golden Eagle Art provides weekly art classes in painting, pottery, and sculpture, making it a great option for those who want continuous instruction.

Notable Classes:

  • Oil Painting for Beginners
  • Pottery Wheel & Hand-Building Techniques
  • Creative Drawing for Kids

Pro Tip: They offer private lessons and small group sessions!

Beyond Painting: Unique Creative Workshops in the Hamptons

If you’re looking for something beyond traditional painting and drawing, these workshops offer fun and unique creative experiences.

1. Textile & Fiber Arts (Felting, Embroidery & Weaving)

  • Wet Felting a Vessel at Guild Hall – April 21, 2025
  • Crewelwork Embroidery at Guild Hall – May 19, 2025

2. Sculpture & Mixed Media

  • Clay Sculpting at Golden Eagle Art – Ongoing
  • Sculpture Studio at The Art Barge – Summer 2025

3. Holiday-Themed Art Workshops

  • Ornament Making at Guild Hall – November 17, 2025
  • Holiday Sweater Felt Embellishment at Guild Hall – December 15, 2025

Pro Tip: Holiday art workshops make great gifts—sign up with a friend or family member!

How to Register & What to Expect

How to Sign Up for Art Classes in the Hamptons

Most art classes require advance registration due to limited space. Follow these steps to secure your spot:

  1. Visit the organization’s website
  2. Check their events calendar for upcoming workshops.
  3. Book early—some classes fill up months in advance.
  4. Arrive prepared—check if supplies are included or if you need to bring your own.

Check ours here at: Guild Hall Events

What to Expect in a Creative Workshop

  • Small class sizes for personalized instruction
  • All skill levels welcome (unless noted otherwise)
  • A fun, social atmosphere to meet fellow art lovers
  • A finished piece to take home!

Pro Tip: Many workshops offer discounts for members—check before you book!

Final Thoughts – Get Creative in East Hampton!

Whether you’re looking to improve your painting skills, try felting for the first time, or take part in a fun holiday craft workshop, East Hampton has endless creative opportunities.


Start your artistic journey today! Explore upcoming workshops and register for a class at Guild Hall’s Events Page or check out local studios like The Art Barge and Golden Eagle Art.

Stay Updated: Follow Guild Hall and other art venues on social media for new class announcements!

Top 10 Cultural Things to Do in East Hampton, NY

When visiting East Hampton, many travelers immediately think of stunning beaches and charming boutiques. But East Hampton is also a vibrant hub for art, culture, and creativity, anchored by the iconic Guild Hall — the region’s leading cultural arts center. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, here’s a local’s guide to the best things to do in East Hampton, with a special focus on cultural experiences, local events, and historical landmarks.

cultural events in east hampton

1. Visit Guild Hall – The Heart of East Hampton’s Arts Scene

No trip to East Hampton is complete without a visit to Guild Hall, a historic arts center that has been nurturing the creative spirit of the East End for nearly a century. Guild Hall offers a rotating calendar of art exhibitions, theatrical performances, film screenings, and educational programs — making it a must-visit for culture lovers.

2. Tour the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center

Step into the historic home of two of America’s most influential artists, Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. This preserved space offers guided tours where you can see Pollock’s famous paint-splattered floor and learn about the couple’s legacy in modern art.

3. Stroll Through East Hampton’s Historic District

Take a walk down Main Street and Further Lane, where beautifully preserved colonial homes tell the story of East Hampton’s past. Don’t forget to visit the East Hampton Historical Society to dive deeper into the area’s local history.

4. Explore the LongHouse Reserve

Combining sculpture and landscape design, the LongHouse Reserve is a 16-acre garden showcasing art installations alongside unique plantings. It’s an inspiring blend of nature and creativity.

5. Catch a Show at Guild Hall’s East Hampton Theater

Whether you enjoy contemporary plays, live music, or film festivals, the Guild Hall East Hampton Theater hosts year-round events that celebrate the vibrant artistic spirit of the Hamptons.

6. Attend an Art Workshop or Talk at Guild Hall

For those seeking hands-on experiences, Guild Hall offers artist talks, workshops, and community programs. From painting classes to theatrical workshops, visitors of all ages can engage directly with East Hampton’s creative community.

7. Relax at Main Beach – Just Minutes from Guild Hall

After soaking in the culture, unwind at Main Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the Hamptons. This award-winning beach offers soft sands, beautiful views, and seasonal amenities — perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

8. Visit Local Art Galleries and Studios

East Hampton is home to renowned galleries featuring contemporary artists as well as pop-up exhibitions. Combine a gallery tour with your visit to Guild Hall to get a full taste of the East End’s art scene.

9. Discover Local Dining with an Artistic Twist

Many of East Hampton’s restaurants and cafés partner with local artists to showcase their work — turning dining rooms into mini art galleries. After a performance at Guild Hall, head to a nearby farm-to-table restaurant to enjoy locally sourced cuisine surrounded by creative energy.

10. Attend Seasonal Festivals and Cultural Events

Guild Hall frequently hosts seasonal festivals, including film festivals, literary events, and community celebrations that bring together locals, visitors, artists, and performers. Check the Guild Hall events calendar to plan your trip around these special gatherings.

Interactive Map: Cultural Hotspots Near Guild Hall

To make your visit even easier, here’s a custom Google Map featuring some of the cultural attractions mentioned in this guide:

 

Why Cultural Tourism Matters in East Hampton

Beyond its beauty and luxury, East Hampton’s cultural heritage plays a crucial role in its identity. Venues like Guild Hall not only preserve local history but also inspire the next generation of artists, writers, and performers. By engaging with the area’s arts and culture, visitors contribute to the sustainability of this thriving creative community.

Things to do in East Hampton today

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan of the Hamptons, exploring East Hampton’s cultural treasures offers a rich and rewarding experience. Start your cultural journey at Guild Hall, and let your art-filled adventure unfold across this vibrant community.

Ready to plan your cultural getaway to East Hampton? Check out upcoming exhibitions, performances, and events at guildhall.org.

You may also want to read about the Best Art Classes & Creative Workshops in the Hamptons

11.8.24: GUILD HALL TO OPEN THE 85TH ARTIST MEMBERS EXHIBITION AND LINDA REVILLE EISENBERG: STILL ON NOVEMBER 17

The 85th Artist Members Exhibition and Linda Reville Eisenberg: STILL will open at Guild Hall on Sunday, November 17 with a members-only preview on Saturday, November 16. Awards Juror Storm Ascher, founder of Superposition Gallery and The Hamptons Black Arts Council, will select the Top Honors winner and honorable mentions, to be announced at a preview reception between 3-5 PM on the 16… read more HERE.