CreativeLive is an online learning platform founded in 2010 in Seattle, known for classes in photography, video, design, art, music and creative business. Fiverr bought it in 2021, then announced in September 2025 that it would close at the end of that year. Instead, in December 2025 Fiverr sold CreativeLive to CourseHorse, and the platform relaunched in early 2026 with new classes.
At a glance
| What it is | An online learning platform for creative skills |
| Subjects | Photography, video, design, art, music, business |
| Library | Historically 2,000+ classes |
| Founded | 2010, Seattle |
| Owner | CourseHorse, since December 2025 |
| Status | Relaunched in early 2026 with new classes |
| Pricing | Check current options on the site |
How it works
CreativeLive offers video classes from working creatives, covering technical skills and the business side of creative work. Historically, learners could buy individual classes or subscribe. After the relaunch, check the current pricing and catalogue on the site.
The 2025 to 2026 story
After years of reduced investment, Fiverr announced CreativeLive’s closure for 31 December 2025. In December 2025 it sold the platform to CourseHorse instead, and CreativeLive returned in January 2026, posting to its community for the first time since 2022 and adding new classes.
Is it worth it for side hustlers?
CreativeLive is useful for photographers, designers and other creatives who want both craft and business skills. Given recent changes, check what’s currently available before buying.
Common mistakes
Some buyers assume the old catalogue and pricing still apply. Check the current offer first.
Making the most of CreativeLive
Pick classes that combine craft and business, such as pricing photography work, building a design portfolio or marketing creative services. These help turn creative skills into income. Take notes on practical steps and apply them to your own projects.
Checking the current offer
After the 2025 ownership change and 2026 relaunch, the catalogue, pricing and access options may differ from before. Check what’s included, how long access lasts and whether older classes are available before you pay.
Pairing with practice
Learning works best alongside real projects. After a photography class, offer a few discounted shoots to build a portfolio. After a design class, create sample work for an imaginary client. Share results and gather feedback.
If you had an old account
Users with older purchases should check what’s available under the new owner and keep any downloads they made before the transition.
Quick checklist
Before buying, review the current catalogue, confirm pricing and access terms, pick classes tied to your creative side hustle and plan a practice project for each.
Common questions
Many people ask whether old CreativeLive purchases still work. That depends on the new owner’s terms, so check your account. Others ask how CreativeLive compares with Skillshare: CreativeLive has historically offered longer, in-depth workshops, while Skillshare focuses on shorter project-based classes. Choose based on how you like to learn, and how much time you can give each week.
Who gets the most from it
CreativeLive suits photographers, designers, artists and musicians who want to improve their craft and learn how to earn from it. Freelance creatives building a business often value its business-focused classes most.
What to watch
Because ownership and the platform changed recently, keep an eye on updates about new classes and access. Read recent user reviews after the relaunch to see how the new version compares with the old one, and start small before committing to a larger purchase or subscription.
Getting started
Browse the current catalogue, read class descriptions and reviews, and start with one class that matches your most immediate goal. Apply what you learn on a real project before buying more. Keep track of which classes actually changed how you work or price your services. Use that to decide whether the platform is worth more of your money and time, and which instructors to follow next on the platform.
Owen’s take
CreativeLive has a strong creative legacy and a second chance under new owners. Worth a look for creative side hustles, but confirm what’s live now.
Who it suits
It suits creatives who want practical and business skills. It suits less well people needing formal credentials.
Similar options
- Skillshare offers creative project classes.
- MasterClass offers expert inspiration.
- Udemy has practical creative courses.
- Coursera offers design certificates.
More options are in Resources.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Strong creative focus
- Business skills for creatives
- Relaunched with new classes
Cons
- Recent ownership changes
- Current pricing unclear
- No formal credentials
FAQ
Is CreativeLive still running?
Yes, it relaunched in early 2026 under CourseHorse.
Who owns CreativeLive?
CourseHorse, since December 2025.
What does CreativeLive teach?
Photography, video, design, art, music and creative business.
Did Fiverr own CreativeLive?
Yes, from 2021 until the 2025 sale.
When was CreativeLive founded?
In 2010, in Seattle.
