Looking for fresh ways to stay creative and inspired? Whether you’re an experienced artist, a weekend hobbyist, or just love learning something new, The San Diego Museum of Art has curated a series of engaging, hands-on activities you can enjoy from anywhere. Dive into the world of art-making and photography with our free instructional video playlists designed by Museum educators to spark your creativity and deepen your appreciation for the art in our collection
Explore Online Art Tutorials
Our SDMA Art Tutorials playlist on YouTube offers step-by-step videos led by Museum educators. Each tutorial introduces a different art skill, technique, or material inspired by works of art in The San Diego Museum of Art permanent collection.
No matter your skill level—beginner or master—these tutorials are designed to help you connect with the creative process while learning fascinating aspects of art history.
Featured Art Tutorial Topics Include:
Clay Techniques with Artist Fernando Casasempere: Learn hand-building methods and how artists throughout history have shaped storytelling through clay.
Optical Art Illusions: Discover how to trick the eye using line, pattern, and perspective—perfect for fans of M.C. Escher-style design.
How to Create White Paint from Oyster Shell Pigment: Ever wondered how artists make their own paints? Try your hand at grinding pigments from natural sources like earth and plants.
Pattern & Radial Symmetry: Find balance and beauty in repeated designs inspired by global art traditions—from Islamic tile work to mandalas.
Discover Photography 101
Our Photography 101 playlist is ideal for photography enthusiasts of all levels who want to sharpen their eye and experiment with visual storytelling. Taught by Museum educators and inspired by the visual language of the collection, these easy-to-understand online lessons explore both historical and contemporary photography techniques.
Featured Photography 101 Topics Include:
The Art of Aerial Photography: Gain a new perspective from above and explore how artists capture the world from the skies.
Landscape Photography: Step outside and learn how to compose powerful scenic images using natural light and framing.
Abstraction: Push the boundaries of photography by focusing on shape, color, and form.
Camera Obscura: Try your hand at one of the earliest forms of photography using light and a simple box to understand the origins of the camera.
Subscribe and Watch Now
Ready to get started? Visit our YouTube channel and explore the Art Tutorials and Photography 101 playlists.
