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The Mastery Program

Join our proven online art program to become a professional artist in just one year, no matter your skill level.

Are You Ready to Turn Your Passion for Art into a Career?

Master painting and drawing techniques, discover your unique artistic voice, and launch a thriving art business at your own pace with our flexible online program— The Mastery Program! Designed for all skill levels, this comprehensive course covers everything from oil and acrylic painting to starting and marketing your own art business. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to refine your craft, the 12-month Mastery Program will help you find your style, build a professional art portfolio, and successfully launch your brand. Achieve both artistic excellence and business success with expert guidance every step of the way!

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The Program Where Creativity Transforms Lives

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Secure Your Spot on the Waitlist Today!

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Waitlist members get access to the exclusive Mastery Program Prep Course, where they'll learn how to build an easel, set up their studio, develop their creativity, discover what art supplies they should use, and more. While on the Waitlist, you'll also receive inspiration and information to help you start your art career.

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What Our Students Are Saying

Mastery Program Student Testimonials

See how the Mastery Program has transformed our students' artistic journeys! From expert guidance to personalized feedback, hear how they've refined their skills, achieved their goals, and unlocked their full potential.

This program provided the best value I’ve ever received for my money. I’ve sold over $10,000 worth of art since I started the program, and I haven’t even been focused on promotion for all of that time. Thanks for giving me the confidence to call myself a professional artist!

Autumn Hunter
Autumn HunterMastery Program Student

Deciding to enroll in the art mastery program was literally the best decision of my life. Not only myself but everyone around me has noticed an enormous improvement in my art. I finally have my own style and voice which has revealed even more creation in me. I haven’t even started the business/portfolio half of the program and I already feel like I have benefited so much.

Christina Cowan
Christina CowanMastery Program Student
This is a brilliant class on a huge variety of styles of drawing and painting. It has stretched my world of what's familiar in the art world and I'm delighted with some of the pieces I've done! I'm also excited to go over some of the classes again to see where I can improve yet again and become even more comfortable with the techniques. And, yes, I'm drawing and painting things that I never would have thought possible before I started the class. And, my pieces are getting attention from people who are wanting to buy them. And, I only started recently! I'm very excited to get through the program. The possibilities seem infinite!
Michelle Nedelec
Michelle NedelecMastery Program Student

I’m only in week 3 of the program and it has already changed my life! ❤️ I’ve learned so much already, my skills are flying through the roof and I am constantly surprised about what comes out of my hands. I’m even in love with my art now, I used to always see imperfections and not like it. On top of that, the lessons give me daily focus and a goal every week. Way less doom scrolling and online shopping for me, unless it is for art supplies 😁 LOVE IT 😍

Caro Eikelenboom - Heineken
Caro Eikelenboom - HeinekenMastery Program Student

I'm thrilled to finally be a part of this course. I watched and waited for almost a year, scouring YouTube for the free workshops and carefully paying attention to the community. Initially I didn't think I had the skills or confidence to be a part of the program but eventually I realized I really do want to take my art seriously and this was the best match for me to do it. Skills to voice and finally tackling the business were the puzzle pieces I discovered on my own but I needed help putting them together. I've set mini goals monthly to pay for the program with my art and I'm so pleased what I've learned already. Thank you for believing in me even before you knew me!

Kirsten K
Kirsten KMastery Program Student

Flexible Tuition Plans

Monthly Installments or Pay in Full for a Discount

Ready to take your art to the next level? The Mastery Program at Milan Art Institute is your path to unlocking your full artistic potential. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, this program is designed to help you master professional techniques, refine your unique style, and build a successful career in the art world. Invest in your artistic future today—Join the waitlist for the Mastery Program and start transforming your passion into a profession!

12-Month Payment Plan
Pay In Full And Save!

The Essentials

Only $330/mo
$3,600

Mastery Program With Group Coaching

Lifetime access to the Mastery Program video lessons.
2-year access to our coaching groups where you’ll receive feedback on every assignment throughout the program.
Weekly Zoom check-in calls with your dedicated coaching team.
BONUS CONTENT - The Beginner Art Program. ($300 Value)
BONUS CONTENT - Access to the Pro Library content from Milan Art Institute. ($1,200 Value)
$1,500 in Bonus Content

Join the Mastery Program with Group Coaching and choose between a flexible 12-month payment plan or save with a one-time payment (Save $360). Get expert guidance, and personalized feedback, and become part of a thriving art community as you master your craft!

The Pioneers

$1,200/mo
$13,600

Mastery Program with Milan Mentoring

SOLD OUT

Everything in 'The Essentials' plus 1-year of personal mentoring with Elli or Dimitra Milan.
Message personally anytime, get answers within 24 hours.
Weekly 30-minute call to stay ahead of your art goals, get the highest level of accountability and support.
Perfect for: overachievers who want to achieve the highest level of success in their art career and have 20-40 hours a week to dedicate to their career.

Sorry, The Pioneers Mastery Program is sold out! However, The Accelerator offers expert mentoring and is a great alternative to help you achieve your artistic goals.

Milan Art Institute Reviews

Real Reviews By Artists Like You!

Our reviews speak for themselves—students from around the world have shared their inspiring journeys and success stories after taking our online art classes, praising the Milan Art Institute for life-changing experiences.

The Mastery Program vs Art School

Choosing the right path for your artistic journey is crucial, and the Mastery Program offers a unique and powerful alternative to traditional art school. With a much more affordable price point starting at $3,600 compared to the $40,000 to $60,000 you’d spend at a conventional art school, our program provides real-world training from successful professional artists. Unlike the typical 4-year commitment of traditional schools, the Mastery Program can be completed in just 12 months at your own pace. Plus, you'll gain invaluable business knowledge on how to market and sell your art, along with group coaching and or personal mentorship* from accomplished artists.

Self-Taught
Traditional Art School
The Mastery Program
Offerings ➡️
Find Your Voice
Maybe
Maybe
Find Your Style
Maybe
Maybe
Group Coaching
Personal Mentoring
Structured Classes
Long-term Career Support
Learn From Real Professional Artists
Learn From Home
Learn How to Market Your Art
Supportive Social Platform
Length to Complete
Varies
Four Years
Only 12-Months
Price
Varies
$60k Average
Starting at $3,600

Four Steps to Mastery as a Professional Artist

The Mastery Program takes you through four transformative steps to elevate your art and career. First, you’ll master the techniques of painting and drawing, building a strong foundation to create with confidence. Next, you'll discover your unique voice, finding the artistic style that sets you apart. As you progress, you’ll create 30 original masterpieces, forming the backbone of your professional portfolio. Finally, you'll learn how to turn your passion into a profession, gaining the tools to brand, market, and sell your art. This program equips you with both the creative skills and business knowledge to thrive as a professional artist.

Part 1 - Drawing & Oil Painting

Master the Techniques

It all starts with developing your skills. You’ll learn everything you need to know to master realism by developing your oil painting and drawing skills first. In fact, during the very first week of the program, you’ll create a painting you never thought you’d be able to create. And it only gets better from there. The lessons are strategically designed to compound your artistic skills, so you’ll be blown away by your progress.

Part 1 - Weekly Syllabus
  • 1. Contour Drawing & Subtractive Glaze Painting
  • 2. Value, Scale & Indirect Painting
  • 3. Proportion, Planes & 8 Brush Stroke Portrait
  • 4. Still Life Drawing in Graphite & Alla Prima Still Life
  • 5. Break
  • 6. Gesture Drawing & Fat Over Lean
  • 7. Perspective & Subtractive City - Learn the Secrets of the Renaissance
  • 8. Portrait Proportions & Alla Prima Life Painting
  • 9. Small Scale Realism - Learn to See like an Artist
  • 10. Break
  • 11. Mark Making & Directional Marks - Experience the Freedom of Expression
  • 12. Foreshortening & Alla Prima from Source
  • 13. Self Portrait - Learn the Psychology of Seeing Your True Self
  • 14. Expressive Drawing & Summary Final Assignment
  • 15. Break
  • 16. Break

Part 2 - Weekly Syllabus
  • 17. Acrylic Painting & Art History - Discover Your Place Among the Greats
  • 18. Ink & Identifying Your Personal Aesthetic
  • 19. Mark Making & Archetypes - Create Themes and Motifs in Your Work
  • 20. Spray Paint & Your Process - Learn the Process Authentic to You
  • 21. Collage & How to Synthesize - Learn the 4 Phases of the Creative Cycle
  • 22. Break
  • 23. Break
  • 24. Painting an Abstract & Critique - Discover Dimensions Previously Unknown
  • 25. Rollers & Source Material
  • 26. Gold Leaf & Choosing a Source
  • 27. Elli's Mixed Media Process & Creating Sources
  • 28. Dimitra's Mixed Media Process & Integrating Source Material into Your Voice
  • 29. Break
  • 30. Break
Part 2 - Mixed Media, Personal Aesthetic & Voice

Discover Your Voice

Now that you’ve developed the necessary skills to create realistically, it’s time to learn how to express yourself with your art. You’ll develop an artistic vocabulary that utilizes a wide variety of mixed media techniques, many only found in the Mastery Program. This part of the program is where you get to know yourself better than ever before. If they haven’t already, your friends and family will start to notice the shift in you and compliment you. Your confidence will start to shine as your voice becomes more refined.


Part 3 - Portfolio Creation & Branding

30 Creations of You

You’ve dreamed of creating a cohesive portfolio of artwork for years, and now is the time to do it. Every fiber of your being will shout for joy after making your 30 pieces that encapsulate your unique story. The best part is that you’ll have already found an approach that works for your temperament and is designed just for you. The entire process will be FUN!

Part 3 - Weekly Syllabus
  • 31. Studio Habits & How to Build a Portfolio
  • 32. Artist Habits - How to be Productive in Your Workspace
  • 33. Setting Goals & Assessing Your Portfolio - How to Build a Business Strategy
  • 34. Emotional Intelligence & Final Touches - Become More Self-Aware and Succeed
  • 35. Motivation & Prepare for Your Production Period - Become a Prolific Painter
  • 36. Break
  • 37. Through to week 42 - Independent Production & Developing Your Portfolio
  • 38. Break
  • 39. Through to week 42 - Independent Production & Developing Your Portfolio
  • 40. Break

Part 4 - Weekly Syllabus
  • 44. Start Selling Your Art
  • 45. Getting Your Product Ready
  • 46. Building Your Brand
  • 47. Creating Marketing Collateral
  • 48. Creating Your Website
  • 49. Social Media Marketing
  • 50. Promoting Your Product
  • 51. Sales and Promotion
  • 52. Launching Your Career
Part 4 - Marketing, Galleries & Launching Your Career

Turn Passion into Profession

Your art is amazing, and it’s time for the world to see it, love it, and buy it. We’re about to teach you the industry secrets that have allowed countless artists to turn their passion for art into a profession. You’ll learn how to create an irresistible brand for collectors, build a high-converting website, amplify your message with social media, and more.

Art Education That Fits Your Life

Designed to be completed in 1 year, but flexible enough to fit your schedule and go at your own pace

Meet Your Milan Art Institute Team

At Milan Art Institute, our team is the heart of our commitment to nurturing and inspiring artists. Meet our founders, John and Elli Milan, who bring decades of experience and artistic excellence to the Institute. John’s innovative approach and Elli’s mastery in Abstract Realism set the foundation for our unique educational philosophy. Joining them is their daughter, Dimitra Milan, a celebrated artist known for her impactful work and mentorship.

Our team also includes dedicated instructors and mentors, each a professional artist in their own right, offering personalized guidance and expertise. Our coaches provide invaluable support, ensuring that every student receives tailored advice to reach their artistic goals. Together, our team combines passion, experience, and dedication to help you thrive in your artistic journey.

  • Owners & Instructors
elli
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Elli Milan Founding Owner, InstructorAs the founding owner of Milan Art Institute, Elli has been a professional artist for three decades. Elli sold more than 10,000 pieces of art throughout her thriving career. She has transformed the lives of thousands of artists from around the world—helping them find their voice and turn their passion for art into a profession. With her online drawing and painting classes, Elli is a leading voice of the current Art Renaissance.Read full bio
john
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John Milan Co-Founder, Instructor

John, co-founder of Milan Art Institute, is a dynamic artist with over 25 years of experience. Known for his vibrant mixed media oil paintings, he’ll share his artistic insights in a captivating and inspiring way. As an avid teacher and mentor, John travels the world, guiding artists locally and internationally.

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dimitra milan
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Dimitra Milan Co-Owner, Director & Instructor

By age 15, Dimitra had sold over a million dollars in artwork, thanks to her training at Milan Art Institute. With 400,000+ social media followers, she's a leading artist influencer, pioneering a new era for artists online and inspiring them to change the world with their art.

Read full bio
jake dunn
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Jake Dunn Co-owner, Director & Instructor

Jake, a Milan Art Institute Mastery Program graduate, combines modern marketing expertise with his artistic skills to help artists reach their potential. A true Renaissance artist, he excels in painting, music, and writing, sharing his insights with precision.

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See the Possibilities. Your Masterpiece Awaits

 

Your Questions Answered

I’m just a beginner, is this too advanced for me?

We’ve seen students who have literally never picked up a brush before go through the program and create masterpieces by the end. So YES, this program is made for you too.

Every section of the Mastery Program starts with understanding the fundamentals. With each lesson and assignment you complete, you’ll become more empowered to create art you never thought you were capable of creating before.

If you follow the order of the lessons and complete the assignments, you’ll become a Master by the end. Your family and friends will tell you, “I never knew that you were so talented,” and hopefully you’ll share the secret of how you realized it.

I already went to art school, why do I need to take this program?

The sad reality is most art schools are run by professional academia, not professional artists. That’s why you spent an entire semester on anatomy, when the useful information you actually needed for your art could’ve been taught in ONE lecture.

Professors spend their lives studying the nuances and hyper specialize over one aspect of art. You graduate school without learning what you actually set out to learn: how to become a professional artist.

Our instructors are obsessed with making a living with art. And they share with you exactly how they’ve been able to do it for themselves in this one year program. The reason we recommend you complete every lesson, even if it’s a reminder for you, is because they’re a great refresher for what you might’ve forgotten, could’ve missed, or not been taught in school.

The skills you learn will compound, so once you reach the mixed media section, it’s crucial that you’ve practiced our oil and drawing foundations.

In summary, if you already went to an art school, this program is perfect for you.

I’ve tried other online art classes and didn’t get what I was hoping for, how do I know this won’t be the same?

We can confidently say we know you’ll experience the success you’re looking for—whether that’s creating beautiful paintings that you, your family, and friends are proud of, or quitting your job to work at art full-time because you’re selling your pieces consistently. We can claim this because we’ve had thousands of students take this program with countless success stories.

If for any reason you don’t love the Mastery Program wholeheartedly with every fiber of your being, you can get a full refund within 30 days of purchasing the program, no questions asked.

So you have nothing to lose at all!

What if I’m not ready to commit to a whole year?

The beauty of the Mastery Program is that you can learn at whatever pace you want to set. At the end of the day, this is your program, so if you want to take the program over the course of two years, you’re welcome to. Likewise, if you want to finish it in just 4 months, you rock!

The program is designed to be completed over the course of a year, so if you follow the curriculum, by this time next year you’ll have an entire portfolio of art that’s more beautiful than you’re even capable of dreaming of right now. Imagine that. Seriously. Plus, several of your pieces will already have sold.

It’s an incredible feeling and we can’t wait for you to experience it!

How do I know I'll sell my art?

We have a proven process that’s worked for countless artists that have taken the program before you. Even if you can’t draw a stick figure and don’t know how to sell anything, we’ll teach you from start to finish everything you need to know. However, for the program to work, you have to work, too.

What if I only need to learn part of the program (i.e. marketing)

The Mastery Program was carefully and meticulously designed to optimize an artist’s success. Skipping to the end might be tempting, especially if you’ve been an artist for a while and have even been selling your work, but marketing alone is not enough for achieving long-term success.

Regardless of your skill level, we’re confident that the harmony of all sections of The Mastery Program will lead to the greatest possible results for you in your art career. Don’t short-change yourself! While our Marketing section is invaluable, it is not the most valuable in considering the whole of your dream to become a professional artist.

The entirety of the Mastery Program is needed for the best possible results in your career. This is truly the investment of a lifetime.

What if I don’t want to become a professional, I just want to get good at painting?

Lucky for you, you’re about to become so skilled at painting that people will be asking how to buy your art. And you won’t really have a choice but to sell it to them because it’s going to mean so much to them—and could even change their life.

If you’re sitting on a pile of money already and don’t have the desire to sell your art, that’s great. During the Mastery Program your skills will skyrocket. You’ll be able to paint anything that you want, so this really is a no-brainer.

I wasn’t born with talent, how can I be successful when I know so many talented artists and am following so many on social media?

The problem with social media today is that it glorifies success without showing you the hard work that people put in. Each of those incredible artists you follow most likely spent years trying to hone their process and develop their style.

You can consider yourself blessed because your new instructors have already toiled and spent years figuring out the key to success for artists. Now, they’re sharing that with you.

That means that you don’t have to spend nearly as long to get where you want to be. Just imagine, a year from now you’ll have an entire portfolio of 30 paintings to impress your friends, family, and entire network.

The secret that most artists don’t want you to know is that talent doesn’t matter. Sure, some people are born with a greater aptitude than others, but every single person has to put in their time and energy to become a great artist.

Visual Stories Told by Our Students

The Mastery Program

Take the first step toward mastering your artistic journey with our Mastery Program! Unlock your full potential and transform your passion into a thriving profession with expert guidance and all the tools you need to succeed.

  • Free BONUS library of 150+ professional video lessons with the latest advanced art techniques to add an exciting edge to the skills you learn in the Mastery Program.

  • Watch all LIVE and past Masterclasses for FREE on topics such as How to Create Sellable Art, Paint Floral Abstracts, Master Your Composition, and more—with 3 hours of high-quality teaching per class—and new ones added every month valued at up to $47 per class.

  • Access to monthly competitions with cash prizes and art supplies (up to $5,000 per month!)
  • Plus, you can join exclusive in-person events for Mastery Program Students and Graduates to learn and network with professional artists.

Start your transformation today and take your art to the next level!

 

Join the Waitlist Today!

Take the First Step in Your Art Journey

Mastery Student Mentoring

Accelerate Your Artistic Development with a Mentor

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Save Time & Avoid Errors

Our mentors were once where you are and now know the right steps to take to succeed in their art careers. Don’t waste years on avoidable mistakes. Learn from an artist who can show you the fastest path to thrive.

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Next-Level Accountability

Even if you don’t know what your dream is, you must invest in your accountability to get there. With Mastery Mentoring, you tap into a strong support system to always motivate you.

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Fast-Track Your Success

World-class professionals trained our mentors, and this works like compounding interest in your artistic journey. Connect with the right people at the right time to rapidly reach your goals.

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Feedback & Support

Frustrated because your proportions are off? Struggle to mix colors? As artists, we can feel lost during the creative process. Mentors take away the guesswork and give solutions on the spot.

Never Alone

Connect and Learn Together!

In The Mastery Program, you'll enjoy group coaching sessions and connect with fellow students globally through our social learning platform, Milan Art (formerly Art Social). This exclusive space fosters collaboration, allowing you to share insights and support each other throughout your artistic journey. Discover artists NEAR you and all over the world to form valuable professional connections. Join the waitlist and become part of a vibrant community committed to artistic growth and collaboration!

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