Frequently Asked Questions

1. Contact & Visiting the Studio

What is the best way to reach out with a question?

Email us at ShinehArtStudio@gmail.com and we will respond as promptly as possible.

Can I try a class before enrolling?

We currently do not offer trial classes, but you are welcome to visit the studio, ask questions, and gather information. Please email us or schedule a time through our Calendar.

Can I observe a class?

We do not offer open observation classes. However, parents of enrolled students who require adjustments may attend. You are always welcome to visit the studio when classes are not in session.

2. Enrollment & Eligibility

Do you offer adult classes?

We currently do not offer adult classes.

Can I register after the term has started?

Yes! Students may enroll anytime during the year if space is available. Tuition will be prorated.

Why are some classes full, and how is enrollment handled?

Due to limited class sizes and the personalized attention we provide, many of our classes reach full capacity quickly. Enrollment is processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and a spot is only secured once tuition payment is received.

What happens if a class is full when I try to register?

At times, the registration form may not reflect the most up-to-date availability. If a class is full, we will contact you promptly to offer:

Placement on a waitlist, or
An alternative day or time, if available.

If you choose not to select an alternative, your tuition will be refunded. Please note that openings are rare, as many students return each year.

How does the waitlist work, and can I guarantee a spot?

Openings in our classes are rare, as many students return each year. Families on the waitlist are contacted in the order requests are received if a spot becomes available. While we cannot guarantee that a spot will open, we strongly encourage early registration to reserve your spot and secure your preferred class time.

3. Tuition & Discounts

Is there a family discount?

5% Younger Sibling Discount applies to half-year monthly installment plans only at this time.
Full-year and half-year pay-in-full plans are already discounted (3–5%) and cannot be combined.
Not applicable to camps. No exceptions.

4. Attendance & Scheduling Policies

Do you offer make-up classes?

Yes — one make-up class per month with advance written notice via the make-up request form.
Must be completed within the same month. No exceptions.
Portfolio Prep students may take up to two per month.

Important Update – Make-Up Classes Policy

Make-up classes are offered as a courtesy and are limited as follows, effective Summer 2026:

All programs (Junior, Intermediate, Advanced Fine Arts): one make-up class per term, with advance written notice via the make-up request form. No make-up classes during Summer.
Portfolio Prep students: two make-up classes per term, given their twice-weekly schedule. No make-up classes during Summer.

Make-up availability is not guaranteed. Because our classes operate at full capacity, openings are rare and cannot always be accommodated. Requests are honored only when space is genuinely available — no exceptions can be made.

What if my child has multiple absences due to a commitment?

Only one make-up class is allowed monthly. However, with advance notice, students may temporarily switch to another available class time and return if space remains.

Important Update – Make-Up Classes Policy

Beginning Summer 2026, our make-up class policy will be updated. Please check the updated guidelines to understand how make-up classes will be scheduled and applied moving forward.

5. Portfolio Preparation for College Applications

Can portfolios be used for both art and non-art colleges?

Yes! At Shineh Art Studio, we guide students in building strong, cohesive portfolios that showcase both technical skill and personal creativity. Whether intended for art schools or non-art colleges, each piece is thoughtfully developed to reflect high standards, originality, and purpose — helping students present their very best work in support of their applications. Over the years, our students have earned admission to top universities such as Yale University, Princeton University, Johns Hopkins University, Brown University, Columbia University, and Cornell University, among many others. In several cases, students were accepted to both highly selective universities and top-ranked art schools using the same portfolio — demonstrating how a well-developed portfolio can strengthen applications to both art and non-art programs.

Can portfolios be used for art competitions?

Yes! Detailed guidance on this will be provided once your child is enrolled in our program.

Will classes help with MCPS Visual Arts Center magnet applications?

Yes — students create portfolio-quality work suitable for art magnet applications. Artwork from the past two years must be presented for review.

6. Student Growth & Studio Resources

Do you help students with art contests?

We happily offer optional art competitions throughout the year as a fun and encouraging experience, giving students exciting goals to work toward and a wonderful sense of accomplishment.

While students may enjoy participating, our main focus is always helping them build strong skills, grow their creativity, and develop their own artistic voice. Competitions simply add extra encouragement along the way — never a measure of their success.

Where do I find a supply list?

Each program has specific requirements — please see the supply list on our website - here.