San Miguel Allende boasts some of the best art schools in Mexico. In no other place in Mexico will you have the opportunity of studying in a highly diversified community with people from all ages, backgrounds and countries committed to their craft and loving Mexico so strongly. Plus, the setting is magnificent, the stay is cheap and the food is delicious, no matter how modest the lunch place looks. Students have the chance to study with prestigious Mexican artists who live in San Miguel Allende and others who come from Mexico City to teach. There are several schools where you can take painting, sculpture and photography classes. You can even earn a BA or study your MFA. The highlight is that you will be part of an international art community.

Some of the schools to consider are:

- Instituto Allende. It has different programs that include individual classes, workshops, a BA and MFA. There are classes in drawing, art history, photography, writing, painting, sculpture and graphic design. For details about the programs and application procedures, check their website at www.instituto-allende.edu.mx .

- Instituto de Bellas Artes ("El Nigromante").  The official name is Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramirez, it is run by the Mexican government and located in a beautiful former convent. Again, there is a wide range of classes. In the entrance is an attractive small bookshop and in the courtyard a pleasant cafe. 

- Academia de Fotografia, classes are taught by local professors and visiting artists. For details about classes and workshops, stop online at http://www.acdphoto.com/. The Academia also rents lab space to professional photographers.

There are also workshops and classes conducted by local and international artists. The best way to know about these classes is by walking around town: you will see leaflets and ads posted at cafes, antique shops and even in the art schools.  You can find a list of art class as well as language and cooking classes at SMAmap.com.