Art Academy at Bash & Design Gallery
How Our Programs Are Structured. See What's New!
Professional Fine Art Classes in Las Vegas
drawing and painting lessons
art classes for teens and adults
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Everything you need to know about this upcoming Fall Semester | Classes Begin Aug 27th
We build artists the way conservatories build musicians or athletes train at a professional level. Drawing is the foundation of everything — but to truly grow, students must also understand color, composition, and other mediums. That’s why our program integrates both drawing and painting as essential skills. We’re not just offering art classes — we’re building something much deeper: a space where students grow as artists and as people. Our teaching method is grounded in the classical traditions of European fine art education, shaped by co-founder Maria Ermolaeva, a professional artist with over 30 years of experience. Trained in Russia and Europe, Maria brings a lifelong passion for art and a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation. This is a space where future artists — and good humans — are raised, guided by love, structure, and the belief that creativity has power.
Tailored for children ages 5 to 17 and adults, we’re located at 215 and South Buffalo, offering a gallery setting to enhance your creativity.
Our Level System: Building Artists Through Practice
At Bash & Design Gallery, progress is measured by hours of focused practice — not just age or talent. Art is a skill that grows with consistency and the right guidance. That’s why we recommend a minimum of 3 hours per week for students who want to see meaningful results.
Want to see your young artist grow faster? Pair their core class with a secondary program or Studio Time session. Every hour counts toward apron levels — and the more they create, the more confident and capable they become.
How Many Classes Should I Take?
Progress in art is directly tied to time spent practicing. Here’s how different weekly commitments affect your child’s development and apron advancement.
Click to enlarge the diagram.
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NEW Apron Level System at Bash & Design Gallery
At our studio, we use an apron-based level system to guide and celebrate each artist’s progress — whether they’re a child, teen, or adult. This system helps all of our students grow with purpose, while giving instructors (and, for younger artists, their parents) a clear understanding of the artist’s evolving journey and skill development.
How It Works
Every student receives a personal folder that stays at the studio. Inside, we track:
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Hours completed
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Photos of finished projects
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Instructor notes and progress feedback
This helps us provide personalized support, give targeted feedback, and celebrate milestones when students are ready to move up to the next level.
To graduate to a new level, students must:
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Complete the required number of consecutive training hours
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Finish a final project, evaluated by our Master Artist
At each level, students face new creative challenges, higher expectations, and increased artistic responsibility. Around midway through Level 2, students begin to explore personal interests and themes, with guidance from instructors — a step toward finding their unique voice as artists.
Level 1 — Black Apron
Who Starts Here: All new students ages 8+ begin at Level 1.
Hours Required: 108 hours
Apron Policy: Black aprons are provided by the studio & stay at the studio
Focus: Foundational techniques in painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media.
Goal: Build strong habits, learn studio etiquette, and gain confidence through structured lessons.
Level 2 — Blue Apron
Hours Required: 156 hours
Focus: Stronger skills, deeper projects, and more personal responsibility in art-making.
Apron Policy: Students receive their own personalized apron and must bring it to every class.
What’s New: Midway through Level 2, students begin exploring subjects of personal interest in their projects — while still learning structure and technique.
Opportunities: By teacher invitation, Level 2 students may begin participating in gallery showcases, community events, or art markets.
Level 3 — Beige Apron
Hours Required: 206 hours
Focus: Advanced artistic skills like perspective, proportions, and fine art genres.
Apron Policy: Students receive their own personalized apron and must bring it to every class.
Opportunities: Portfolio development, leadership within the studio, and preparation for personal art showcases. Students also gain opportunities to assist in special projects and events.
Advanced Level — Red Apron
Awarded To: Students who demonstrate exceptional skill, originality, and dedication.
Focus: Independent work, mentorship roles, and high-level creative challenges.
Apron Policy: Students receive their own personalized apron and must bring it to every class.
Opportunities: Leadership during camps, support with community collaborations, and mentorship under Master Artist Maria Ermolaeva.
Level & Program Placement
All new students begin at Level 1 within their age group unless their age or experience qualifies them for a different starting point. Students ages 13+ are eligible to join Level 2 programs. Adults 18 and older may enroll in Level 2 or Level 3, depending on availability and fit.
Placement isn’t permanent — especially for students who are new to our studio but already have prior experience. We often adjust levels or move students into different programs after about 4 consecutive sessions, based on the artist’s development, observed strengths and challenges, and instructor recommendations.
Our goal is to place each student in a program that supports both their current skill level and their long-term artistic growth.
For Our Youngest Artists (Ages 5–8)
At Bash & Design Gallery, we believe the journey into art should start early — and with intention.
Ages 5–7
Programs for this age group focus on foundational skills: building fine motor control, encouraging imagination, and fostering creative confidence. These early experiences introduce painting, drawing, and sculpting in a joyful, age-appropriate way that prepares young artists for more structured work later on.
Ages 6–8: Creative Art Series
This age is a critical window for artistic growth. Our Creative Art Series — including Painting & Drawing and Mixed Media — offers more structured lessons and broader exposure to materials and techniques. Students begin learning how to tell stories visually, how to compose thoughtful pieces, and how to approach their work with growing independence.
While our Apron Level System officially begins at age 9, we track progress for 6–8-year-olds in individual studio folders. This gives young artists a head start and often leads to quicker advancement once they enter Level 1.
Some students may move into Level 1 earlier based on maturity, experience, and teacher recommendations. Every child’s journey is unique — we meet each artist where they are and grow with them from there.
Unlock Exclusive Discounts with Semester Enrollment
When Registering for more than 1 Program per week
We’re rewarding our most dedicated artists with exciting savings and creative perks! Whether you’re leveling up your skills or exploring new mediums, enrolling in multiple programs each week comes with serious benefits.
These discounts also apply as sibling discounts, with the entire amount being discounted instead of just for the sibling.
Register for 2 programs per week: Receive 15% off program tuition! Activate 10% off all pop-up camps, events, and workshops & get access to 1 FREE Self-Directed Studio Time per week (4 total per month valued at $108!)
Register for 3+ programs per week: Receive 25% off program tuition! Activate + 20% off all pop up camps, events and workshops PLUS 2 free Self Directed Studio Time per week (8 total per month valued at $216!)
Drop-In Reservation Discounts:
Buy 4+ Drop-Ins: Get 5% off
Important Notes & Policies
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Self-Directed Studio Time includes a waived studio fee (a $15 value). Students are responsible for paying for materials such as canvas or clay.
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Limit: 1 visit per week (or 2 visits per week for students enrolled in 3+ weekly programs), per eligible student.
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No rollovers or time extensions allowed.
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Non-transferable and may not be shared between students.
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Only one free Self-Directed Studio Time is provided per family per week, unless each student is enrolled in more than one weekly program individually.
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Discounts cannot be combined with other promotions or offers. Only one discount may be applied per registration.
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There are no discounts on Self-Directed Studio Time
Pricing: $45/$55 per session when you enroll in the entire program | Supplies & snacks, including fruit, are provided.
How Placement is Tracked
Every student has a physical studio file where we keep progress photos and instructor notes. These files help us evaluate progress across time and support placement decisions. They also allow us to identify students who may be invited to join special exhibitions, in-studio projects, or off-site opportunities.
We don’t rush the process. Every artist moves at their own pace — and our Apron System ensures that multiple skill levels can exist within a single class, with instructors tailoring feedback accordingly. You’ll see a variety of aprons in every group — and that’s exactly how it’s meant to be.
We value both education and a healthy, respectful approach to art training. You’re not just joining a class — you’re joining a thoughtful and supportive learning community.
Premier Offer – Best Value We’ve Ever Released
Exhibitions & Showcases
At Bash & Design Gallery, we believe in providing our students with meaningful, real-world opportunities — and that includes the chance to exhibit and even sell their artwork.
Throughout the year, we collaborate with local businesses and community venues to host student showcases and specialty exhibitions. These events offer a powerful, hands-on experience where students get to share their work publicly, build confidence, and learn what it means to be a working artist.
As you may have seen on our website or social media, these events are beautiful and inspiring — but they also require an incredible amount of time, resources, and planning from our team. Starting Fall 2025, all exhibitions will be invite-only, due to the level of commitment involved in producing these experiences.
Invitations are extended based on:
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Artistic development and experience level
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Attitude and classroom participation
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Teamwork and ability to take feedback
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Commitment to learning and growth
Participation Requirements
Students selected to exhibit must attend all required planning meetings, studio workshops, and setup sessions. These experiences are built to reflect real-world expectations and require strong dedication from both students and families.
Event Costs & Support
While we go above and beyond to secure sponsors and keep costs low, it’s important to understand that these events come with real expenses (doesn’t apply to every event) — from gallery materials and signage to food, beverages, framing, vendor coordination, and marketing. Every detail matters when creating a meaningful, professional experience for our young artists.
A separate participation fee may apply to help cover these direct event-related costs.
As part of the learning experience, students invited to participate in select events are also guided in how to promote themselves and sell tickets. Not only does this help offset costs, but it also gives them the opportunity to earn commissions — teaching real-world skills in communication, entrepreneurship, and creative confidence.
If you know of individuals or organizations who are passionate about supporting the arts, education, and youth programs like ours — we would be truly grateful if you shared our studio with them. Bash & Design is dedicated to nurturing creativity, promoting culture, and shaping confident, well-rounded students. Your support makes all the difference.
Community Support Matters
Even if your child isn’t participating in an exhibition, we strongly encourage you to attend and support their peers. These events uplift our entire creative community and reflect the heart of what we’re building at Bash & Design: a space where young artists feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Exhibition participation is not required — our core programs remain fully enriching for all students. Whether your artist joins the showcase or not, they’ll continue to receive the same professional guidance and support in class.
Supplies & Studio Materials
At Bash & Design Gallery, we provide most of the materials used in class — including acrylic paints, oil paints, specialty pencils, a variety of brushes, shared studio tools, large-format paper, canvas, fresh fruit, and so much more. This allows students to focus on learning and creating without needing to bring an entire art kit each week.
To help support this expansive and evolving supply library, all students pay a Shared Materials & Maintenance Fee at the time of registration for each program.
This fee isn’t just about covering paint and canvas — it also helps us replenish tools, maintain the quality and longevity of studio-provided items like:
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Professional-grade brushes and specialty pencils
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Paint bottles, palettes, and tools
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Shared accessories and materials
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Art furniture, easels, and classroom storage
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And all the behind-the-scenes upkeep that keeps our studio functional, inspiring, and safe
We view the studio as an extension of each student’s creative home, and we work hard to keep it clean, fully stocked, and ready to welcome their imagination each week. The Shared Materials & Maintenance Fee is a small but vital part of making that possible.
Personal Supplies
While we provide the majority of materials, some classes require students to bring a few personal items, which will always be noted in the program description.
These include and can be purchased via amazon https://amzn.to/3J3oxDm
Alcohol-Based Markers
Used regularly in certain programs, these markers should be brought to each session and do not stay at the studio. They’re considered part of your student’s personal art toolkit — much like a uniform.
Sketchbook (Required for some classes & Optional but Encouraged for others, excludes Mixed Media Programs)
We recommend the Ohuhu Mixed Media Art Sketchbook (120 lb / 200 GSM, 62 Sheets / 124 Pages). It’s perfect for acrylics, pencil work, and other exercises. Great for sketching ideas or practicing outside of class.
Required Canvas Paper Pad (Stays at the Studio) https://amzn.to/3J3oxDm
Strathmore 300 Series Canvas Paper Pad
(12x16”, 10 sheets – 115 lb / 187 GSM)
This is a required, one-time purchase for all students enrolled during the academic year (August–May), even if joining for just one semester (August–December or January–May). The pad stays at the studio and is used throughout various lessons. It won’t be tracked by page count or returned — it becomes part of your student’s ongoing creative journey while with us.
Why It Matters
At Bash & Design, we believe in giving our all to nurture creativity. Our studio isn’t just about following a set list of supplies — it’s about diving into the creative process without limits. Whether we’re painting, drawing, sculpting, or blending multiple mediums, we focus on providing a rich, all-encompassing art experience.
We don’t charge for every brushstroke or every dab of paint. We invest in our students wholeheartedly, ensuring they have access to the best materials and guidance. In return, we ask for a small but meaningful contribution of select supplies, like the Strathmore 300 Series Canvas Pad. This pad stays at the studio, symbolizing your artist’s place in our creative community. It’s not about tracking pages or returning materials — it’s about being part of something bigger.
Fall Semester Attendance & Make-Up Policy (2025 Update)
At Bash & Design Gallery, we believe that consistent practice is the key to artistic growth. While we understand that life happens, we’re also committed to teaching responsibility and discipline — both essential life skills that apply directly to the creative journey.
Notifying Us of an Absence:
If your child will miss a session, you must notify us in writing via text only to 702-742-1110 at least 2 hours in advance. When proper notice is given, a credit will be added to your account for future use. No refunds are provided.
What Happens If You Miss a Class:
If your student misses a session during a multi-week project, don’t worry — it’s okay to not finish every single piece. What matters most is that they’re continuing to learn.
Students will pivot to the next stage of their development when they return. Our instructors are trained to adapt and guide them forward.
Students may also catch up on missed projects during Self-Directed Studio Time or Sunday Personalized Art Experience (available at an additional cost or by using their credit from the missed session) after receiving notes from their instructor.
Our Philosophy:
We don’t believe in traditional “make-ups” because true learning isn’t about completing every project — it’s about consistent time spent practicing, thinking, and creating. That’s why we encourage all families to build art into their weekly routine and treat it as a commitment.
We’re here to support your young artist, but ultimately, growth comes from showing up — not just for art, but for themselves.
Fall Semester Class Dates & Breaks | Classes Begin Aug 27th
Monday Classes September: 8, 15, 22, 29 No class Sept 1 — see camp schedule October: 6, 13, 20, 27 November: 3, 10, 17, 24 December: 1, 8, 15 Winter Break begins Dec 22 — Spring Semester starts Jan 5 Tuesday ❌ No regular classes on Tuesdays. Great for private events. See schedule for camps, workshops or special events. Wednesday Classes August: 27 September: 3, 10, 17, 24 October: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 November: 5, 12, 19 No class Nov 26 — see Thanksgiving Camp schedule December: 3, 10, 17 Winter Break begins Dec 22 — Spring Semester starts Jan 5 Thursday Classes August: 28 September: 4, 11, 18, 25 October: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 November: 6, 13, 20 No class Nov 27 — see Thanksgiving Camp (Nov 26, 28, 29) December: 4, 11, 18 Winter Break begins Dec 22 — Spring Semester starts Jan 5 Friday Classes August: 29 September: 5, 12, 19, 26 October: 3, 10, 17, 24 No class Oct 31 — see camp schedule November: 7, 14, 21 No class Nov 28 — see camp schedule December: 5, 12, 19 Winter Break begins Dec 22 — Spring Semester starts Jan 5 Saturday Classes August: 30 September: 6, 13, 20, 27 October: 4, 11, 18, 25 November: 1, 8, 15, 22 No class Nov 29 — see camp schedule December: 6, 13, 20 Winter Break begins Dec 22 — Spring Semester starts Jan 5 Sunday Classes August: 31 September: 7, 14, 21, 28 October: 5, 12, 19, 26 November: 2, 9, 16, 23 No class Nov 30 — see camp schedule December: 7, 14 Winter Break begins Dec 22 — Spring Semester starts Jan 5
There is more at Bash & Design Gallery
At Bash & Design Gallery, we offer so much more than ongoing art programs! Throughout the year, you’ll find:
🎨 One-time workshops for all ages
🎉 Art camps during school breaks and holidays
🍷 Paint & Sip nights (yes — we’re licensed!)
👨👩👧 Family art days
🖌️ Specialty fine art workshops with Masha
🎄 Holiday-themed art sessions (think handmade decorations and festive fun!)
🤝 Creative networking events and mixers
🎂 Art birthday parties and private celebrations
🖼️ Student exhibitions — both in-studio and off-site
🛍️ Artwork sales and pop-up markets
There’s always something exciting happening at the studio, and we’d love for you to be part of it.
📬 Make sure to subscribe to our email list to stay in the loop!
💻 And don’t forget to explore our website for full event listings, photos, and registration options.
Come for the classes — stay for the community.
Questions? We might have the answer. If not, please reach out.
Can I join for just a few sessions instead of the whole program?
Yes! You can choose Drop-In sessions, which allow you to register for individual consecutive sessions. Register for more than one drop-in and you’ll receive an automatic discount. We recommend enrolling into 4 consecutive weekly sessions.
Question: Can my child join multiple sessions of the same class, like “Art Explorer” on different days?
Absolutely! Even though the class name may repeat in the schedule (example “Art Explorer” for ages 5-7 on both Mondays and Saturdays), these are not continuation classes, and they don’t cover the same projects. Each session is unique, offering new experiences, techniques, and projects. Joining multiple sessions in a week provides your child with even more opportunities to practice, develop their skills, and explore their creativity. The more they practice, the better they’ll become! Feel free to enroll in as many sessions as you like.
Are there any benefits offered to full-time students?
Exclusive Discounts: Full-time students receive special discounts on pop-up events/camps & more! Opportunities to participate in exhibitions and events. Community aspect of the studio
The program says it's from August to May. Do I have to enroll from the start date that's listed and be in that class for the whole year?
Answer: You can join at any time! If you can't commit to the "full program," you can complete enrollment by drop-ins. Select all the days that you're able to attend (make sure they're consecutive), and you'll receive an automatic discount.
What if a student is younger than the age group listed for a program? Can they still enroll?
Answer: Students must join the program that fits their age group. Our instructors will make an evaluation and provide approval if they are ready for a more advanced class. This ensures a positive and comfortable experience for all students.
Can I switch to a different class or program if I'm on a payment plan or if paid in full?
Answer: Yes, you can switch classes or programs. You will have to pay if there is a difference in price. We recommend sticking to one program for at least 5 months to ensure consistent learning and progress.
What happens if a student misses a class?
Answer: We understand that sometimes classes can be missed. Please review our make-up policies for details on how to reschedule missed classes. You must notify us in advance by text message at 702-742-1110. If you tried calling and no one answered, it is not our responsibility.
Are supplies included in the program fee?
Answer: Yes, we provide standard supplies such as acrylic paint, watercolor paint, canvas, most paper, and clay. Additional supplies for specific projects may be required, please check your program description. required supplies must be provided by your first session
What are the benefits of enrolling in the full program versus drop-in sessions?
Answer: Enrolling in the full program provides a more consistent learning experience and greater opportunities for progress. It also includes exclusive discounts and benefits not available for drop-in sessions.
Don't see a specific subject/class?
Answer: Check out our Personalized Art Study class. Treated as a private group, our professional artist will guide you through your journey, ensuring a tailored and enriching experience.
Can I set up a monthly payment plan if I want to join for at least 5 months instead of the full academic year?
Answer: Yes, you can set up a monthly payment plan for a minimum of 5 months. Please contact us by email at hello@bashanddesign.com with the name of the student, desired program of enrollment, and length. We will then contact you to set up a payment plan.
I have a group of kids/adults that would like a private session weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Is that possible?
Answer: Absolutely! With a group of at least 6, we can designate a day and time for private sessions. Please contact us at hello@bashanddesign.com.
Can I stay with my child?
Answer: We do not allow spectators. If your little one is having a hard time on their first class, which is totally normal, we allow a 15-minute grace period for a parent to stay in the room (only if it's required). This always works. We don't have a waiting room area. We apologize for any inconvenience.