ArtAchieve is an online, video-based art curriculum for grades K-8 that teaches drawing skills through multicultural art projects, with step-by-step instruction requiring no art background from parents.
What is ArtAchieve?
ArtAchieve was created by John Hofland, an award-winning designer and university art professor who developed these lessons while homeschooling his own children. The curriculum combines art skill development with cultural education—each lesson centers on a real cultural object from around the world, teaching drawing techniques while introducing students to diverse artistic traditions. With 60+ lessons across five progressive levels, ArtAchieve works for students in grades K-8 and requires no art expertise from teaching parents. The step-by-step video format means students who can read can complete lessons independently.
Key Takeaways
- Five progressive levels covering grades K-8 with 60+ total lessons across cultures worldwide
- Video lessons (30-35 minutes) provide step-by-step instruction; PowerPoint alternatives available for quieter art time
- Each lesson integrates art history, geography, and cultural studies through authentic artifacts and art forms
- Uses simple, affordable supplies most homeschool families already own (colored pencils, markers, basic paints)
How Lessons Work
Each ArtAchieve lesson begins with art history context—where the inspiration comes from, what artistic style it represents, and how it fit into its originating culture. John Hofland then provides step-by-step video demonstration of the drawing project, talking through techniques and problem-solving as he works. Total drawing instruction time runs approximately 70 minutes per complete lesson. For families preferring quieter art time, PowerPoint presentations offer the same instruction in slides. Students finish each lesson with a completed art piece inspired by world cultures—from Haitian steel barrel art to Israeli mosaics to Kenyan wood carvings.
Five Progressive Levels
Level I (grades 1-2) introduces media basics and simple figure drawing. Levels II and III advance skills progressively through intermediate techniques. Level IV develops more sophisticated approaches. Level V (grades 7+) teaches students to imitate established artistic styles including Impressionism, Art Deco, and Primitivism. Each level contains 8-14 lessons. Beginners of any age—including adults—should start at Level I to build foundational skills, progressing through levels as abilities develop.
Pricing and Access
Individual lessons range from $5.00 (Level I) to $11.00 (Level V), with bundle pricing offering approximately 25% savings—around $4.20-4.50 per lesson when purchasing a complete level. All purchases include one-year access to view lessons on the ArtAchieve website. A free Level I lesson ('The Czech Cat') is available to try before purchasing. This pricing model allows families to test the curriculum with single lessons before committing to full levels.
The Bottom Line
ArtAchieve solves a common homeschool challenge: providing quality art instruction when parents lack artistic training. The video format means students learn by watching art created in real-time, picking up techniques and problem-solving approaches that written instructions can't convey. The multicultural focus adds educational depth beyond art skills—students learn about world cultures, geography, and history through each project. For homeschool families seeking structured art curriculum that produces gallery-worthy results with minimal parent preparation, ArtAchieve delivers consistent quality across its five levels.
