My teenage niece, Sunshine loves the arts. She is super talented at sketching and loves comics. This past year I took her to an open studio in The Columbia Vista, Studio Cellar and we both fell in love. They offer classes, private events and open public studio times. For open studio times you simply pop in, pick the size of canvas you would like to paint and pay one price. They have all of the supplies set up for you and ready to go. The best part is the folks that work there. Their backgrounds and interests vary but all of them are knowledgeable about basic painting skills and are willing to guide you through the process.
I will admit that the first stroke is intimedating. If you are like me, not an artist, it’s difficult to determine where to begin. The studio has tons of sample work and once you get started it is super fun.
Sunshine and I made it a priority to visit the studio once a quarter starting in January of 2019 and we had a great time paining our way through the seasons. The staff’s tips and tricks helped us both improve as the time passed. Some of our sessions lasted for hours, we just couldn’t stop. They provide everything you need, you just have to show up with an idea. And even if you don’t have an idea there are tons of samples to take a look at and build off of. I will admit that most of my creations were combinations of pieces I saw in the studio and then I just sort of put them together.
Don’t hesitate to take one of their classes if that feels like a better starting place for you. I have taken classes with co-workers, hosted birthday parties with friends and have even taken my husband, Sugar, for a fun double date with another couple. Who cares what the weather looks like outside as it’s warm and cozy or super cool in the studio and their large windows makes it fun to Vista people watch while waiting on your paint to dry. Take your family and get creative. Support the ARTS! CREATE! Use your imagination.
The Southern Curious Itinerant Blog 
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