In-Person Workshops, Classes, & Events in Gainesville, FL
Upcoming Courses and Events
See what’s happening at SAW — All of our upcoming in-person events are posted on our blog and shared through our local newsletter
Visit Us in Gainesville
Before SAW expanded online, we were a small brick-and-mortar comics school in Gainesville, Florida. While our programs now reach artists around the world, our Gainesville studio remains the heart of SAW’s in-person community.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, our Gainesville headquarters is the place to be for art and comic workshops, week-long courses, accountability groups, local comics festivals, and more. Many of our events are free or donation-based, and most of our workshops are Pay-What-You-Can, making it easy for everyone to dive into the world of comics.
Learn more about our upcoming in-person classes and events below!
In-Person Workshop and Event Calendar
Comics are for everyone.
We strive to create a welcoming, inclusive space where artists of all backgrounds and experience levels feel comfortable experimenting, learning, and making art together.
Workshops and Classes
We teach comics! Our classes focus on building confidence in your craft, strengthening your comics and art skills, and creating alongside other creative people. Explore classes like:
Single-session workshops
Multi-week courses
Accountability groups
Monthly teen workshops
Summer camps
Guest artist intensives
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up your sequential art skills, SAW’s doors are open for all levels.
Events and Gatherings
Join us for free and sliding-scale comic and art events like our:
Gainesville Arts & Zine Expo (GAZE)
Biannual Word of Mouth Art Show + Social
Visiting artist talks
Free pop-up workshops
Creative community meetups like our monthly Draw Jam (all ages)!
If you’re of age, make sure to also stop by Drink + Draw at Boxcar on the third Thursday of every month (hosted by SAW alumni; 21+ only)!
Our events bring artists together to share work, exchange ideas, and find inspiration.
Gainesville Drink + Draw!
If you're 21 or older, be sure to check out Drink 'n Draw at Boxcar! Hosted by SAW alumni, this community gathering in Gainesville, FL is a great way to meet fellow artists, draw together, and stay connected with the local comics scene.
Keep up with the latest Drink 'n Draw events on their official website. Their next community exhibition is Friday, July 31, from 7:00–10:00 PM, and regular Drink 'n Draw nights at Boxcar are expected to resume in September.
Gainesville Art and Zine Expo
April 11, 2026 | 11 AM - 6 PM
We host a comics and zine fest in Gainesville, FL every Spring! We created this festival to bring folks together from all over Florida and beyond to enjoy SAW's incredible location, library, and community. Stay tuned for next year’s date.
VENUE
1314 S Main Street Gainesville, FL 32601
This is an indoor AND outdoor event. *Masks heavily suggested*
FREE In-Person Draw Jams (all ages welcome)
Hit the Book button on the date you’d like to attend. Add-On any amount you’d want to donate to help support comics education.
