Foundations in Digital Arts

Preliminary program

  • Duration Oct 2026 – Feb 2027
  • Level Beginner
  • Language English
  • Format Online
  • Tuition fee € 1 500 (or in installments)

The Program

“Foundations in Digital Arts” is a 5-month online program for artists who want to create a portfolio of digital works and confidently continue their education in art specialties.

Its goal is to support aspiring artists who want to pursue creative careers by helping them combine knowledge and skills from traditional art with their application in digital painting (using Adobe Photoshop) and 3D object modeling (in Blender).

You will work on specific assignments and receive feedback throughout the entire learning period. Your mentors’ guidance will help you develop a strong foundation in art, its possibilities and real-world applications.

Digital Arts Foundation course

For Whom

Foundations of Digital Arts is designed for creative individuals who want to build a strong foundation in digital art and prepare for a professional career in the creative industries.

This program is for you if you:

  • love drawing but lack the technical skills to work with digital software;
  • are a beginner artist looking for hands-on, practical training;
  • want to build your own digital portfolio;
  • are applying to an art university;
  • plan to continue your studies in an art-related program (at ARC Academy or another institution).

Skills

  • Creative Thinking

    Create digital artworks from concept to final execution.

  • Digital Drawing

    Design polished and inspiring digital pieces using Photoshop.

  • 3D Modeling

    Build 3D objects – models, textures and basic characters in an environment.

  • Project-Based Work

    Gain experience by developing your first independent creative projects.

Education

The classes combine theoretical preparation with practical application through projects and assignments. Instructors provide guidance, recommendations, and personalized advice to help participants grow their skills. They support students in building a portfolio and becoming confident in working with software and producing authentic artwork.

Schedule: 90 hours in total, over 5 months, with sessions twice a week (once on a weekday and once during the weekend). Note: depending on the season or holidays, some weeks may include three sessions.

Format: A mix of live online lectures, hands-on assignments, personal feedback, and access to lesson recordings.

Support: Personalized feedback from mentors. Additionally, participants have access to a dedicated Discord group where they can ask questions, share progress, and discuss ideas with peers.

Self-study: 2–4 hours per week to ensure steady progress. The 2 hours represent the minimum recommended time; participants are encouraged to dedicate additional time as needed based on individual pace and project requirements.

Curriculum

During the preliminary program, you will explore the fundamentals of traditional art, develop practical skills using Adobe Photoshop and Blender and create your first digital artworks. Your mentors will introduce you to essential drawing techniques used to bring exciting worlds and characters to life.

Module 1: Foundations of Traditional Art

This module provides a solid introduction to the core principles, techniques, and theories behind traditional art. Students work through the fundamental elements of design and learn how composition, perspective, color, and structure influence every visual artwork. The goal is to establish a strong artistic base that supports any future specialization in the digital arts.

  • Composition
  • Anatomy
  • Perspective
  • Color Theory and Lighting
  • Sketching
  • Software Familiarization

Module 2: Foundations of Digital Art

This course covers the basics of digital art creation, focusing on essential tools, principles, and techniques in Photoshop for digital drawing. You will also be introduced to 3D modeling using Blender, with an emphasis on developing skills that enhance your ability to create art in a digital environment.

  • Forms and Volume in Art (Architecture)
  • Digital Drawing with Photoshop
  • Introduction to 3D with Blender
  • Portfolio Creation
  • Personal Project Work

Continue your education at ARC Academy

In addition to helping you prepare yourself and your personal portfolio, the Foundation in Digital Arts program gives you the opportunity to apply for the Game Art (Online), 3D Art, Concept Art and Visual Arts programs at ARC.

Game Art

Learn More

3D Art

Learn More
Fantasy character concept art of Yunache created by ARC Academy student Alexandra Severy

Concept Art

Learn More

Visual Arts

Learn More

Upon completion of the Foundations in Digital Arts program, mentors share their overall impressions of participants’ progress and portfolio level. Based on this evaluation, graduates may receive a recommendation for direct access to ARC Academy’s specialized programs, without the need to complete an additional formal admission assignment.

Although the admission task is not mandatory for Preliminary graduates, it is offered as an optional exercise. Many students choose to complete it to practice their skills, assess their progress, and gain additional confidence before entering a specialized track.

Mentors

The program is led by professionals who enthusiastically share their knowledge and experience with you. The training is interactive and focused on practical work and mentors who monitor your development and provide personal feedback.

All mentors

Anatoli Bovyanski 2D Artist at Dreamshot

Dilyan Nedelchev Concept Artist

Gabriela Doychinova 2D Artist

Kameliya Dimitrova 3D Artist

Alexandra Severi Illustrator, Freelance Artist

Got a question?

Book a free consultation

If you would like to find out more about preliminary, campus or distance learning programs, whether they are right for you and how they can help, contact us.

Contacts