On January 29, 1932, Albania opened its first art school. It was the Drawing School.

At first, the school opened in Tirana. Soon, it became the country’s first art institution. Andrea Kushi, Odhise Paskali, and Abdurrahim Buza founded it. From the start, the school trained young talents through realism. As a result, it laid the foundations of national visual arts. Over time, it grew into a key center of critical realism. It operated until 1939.

Meanwhile, the school functioned as a full secondary art institution. It combined general education with professional training. Odhise Paskali, Andrea Kushi, Abdurrahim Buza, and Mario Ridola taught there. Initially, the Italian Technical Directorate appointed Ridola as director. The body worked under the Ministry of Education.

Later, Education Minister Mirash Ivanaj replaced him. Then, Odhise Paskali assumed the role of director. In this way, the Drawing School fulfilled progressive aspirations. It established professional and national standards in art education.

Notably, many future masters studied there. They included Ibrahim Kodra, Sadik Kaceli, Foto Stamo, Shefqet Agalliu, and Filip Makoçi. Afterward, they continued their studies in Rome, Paris, and Athens.

Finally, the school adopted Western teaching models. It emphasized realistic study from nature. It applied academic standards. At the same time, it embraced European culture. It introduced modern elements. Ultimately, the Drawing School closed in 1939.

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