Digital Academy
Project-based learning for neurodivergent creatives ages 14+ who are ready to take ownership of their learning and grow alongside a creative community.
Ages 14+ | Online and In-person | Intermediate to Advanced | Tuition Varies by Program
New to Digital Academy or deciding between programs?
We’d love to help. Connect with Us before registering!
What Is Digital Academy?
Digital Academy is Islands of Brilliance’s most rigorous set of programs. It is designed for students who want to take their creative skills to the next level through deeper learning, greater independence, and project-based work.
Students learn together in small groups with guidance from educators and creative mentors. Support is intentionally not 1:1. Instead, Digital Academy encourages students to develop confidence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn independently while supported by peers.
For many students, Digital Academy is a natural next step after Foundation Workshops.
What Digital Academy Participants Will Learn
Creative and Technical Skills
Project-based creative workflows
Technical skill development tied to student interests
Iteration, feedback, and revision
Planning and executing creative projects
Presenting and discussing creative work
Personal Development and Growth
Confidence as a creator
Learning how to learn independently
Persistence through creative challenges
Collaboration and peer feedback
Belonging within a creative community
Digital Academy is a Good Fit For
Neurodivergent creatives ages 14+
Participants motivated by their interests
Learners ready for more independence
Students who enjoy learning with peers
Creators looking for deeper engagement
Choose Your Digital Academy Path
Use the quick guide below to choose your starting point.
DA Quest
Go deep on a project that matters to you.
Best for participants who:
Want to build strong portfolio pieces for art school applications
Have an idea (or many ideas) they’re excited to develop into finished work
Are ready to work more independently with guidance from professional artists
Want thoughtful feedback to refine their style, technique, and presentation
Like seeing a project through from concept to completion
What to expect:
Online format
Individual projects with peer feedback
Guided support without 1:1 mentoring
DA SideQuest
Build skills, explore tools, and level up.
Best for participants who:
Want to improve specific skills like drawing, design, 3D modeling, or animation through self-directed learning and exploration
Are preparing for art school and want to strengthen and build confidence in the weaker areas of their portfolio
Like shorter, focused experiences with clear goals and outcomes, exploring skills, rather than focusing on a finished project
Want to try new tools, styles, or creative directions without a long commitment
Are building confidence before jumping into
larger portfolio projects
What to expect:
Hybrid format
Track-based learning in Illustration & Design, 3D Modeling, or Animation & Media
Mini-projects with clear goals
Guided support without 1:1 mentoring
DA CollabQuest
Real projects, real experience in real-world
creative environments.
Best for participants who:
Are exploring creative career paths
Thrive with real-world context
and collaborationPrefer in-person, studio-based experiences, seeking feedback on their work.
Are new to Digital Academy
What to expect:
In-person program
One site visit plus guided work sessions
Individual projects informed by professional context
Guided support without 1:1 mentoring
New to Digital Academy or deciding between programs?
We’re happy to talk it through and help you find the right fit. Connect with Us before registering!
Meet the Team of Artists You’ll Be Learning With
This is the team that leads Digital Academy. They are working artists, designers, and creatives who know what it takes to grow, apply, and succeed in creative fields…and who are here to help you do the same.
New to Digital Academy or deciding between programs?
We’re happy to talk it through and help you find the right fit. Connect with Us before registering!
FAQs
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What age group is Digital Academy for?
Digital Academy is for neurodivergent creatives ages 14 and up, including high school and college-age students.
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Do participants need prior experience to join Digital Academy?
Participants do not need advanced technical skills, but they should have a strong interest in the program topics and be ready for a more independent learning experience than Foundation Workshops.
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How much support do participants receive?
Digital Academy uses a small group model rather than 1 to 1 mentoring. Mentors and educators provide structure and guidance while encouraging independence and peer learning.
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Is Digital Academy a next step after Foundation Workshops?
For many participants, yes. Digital Academy is often a natural next step after Foundation, though some participants join when they are ready for a more independent, project-based experience.
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Do participants have to commit to all Digital Academy programs?
No. Quest, SideQuest, and CollabQuest are separate experiences. Participants can join in one, multiple, or return to different programs over time.
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Not sure which Digital Academy program is the best fit?
We’re happy to talk it through and help you find the right path. Contact us to discuss.