Although I wasn’t expecting too much from my first painting class in as long as I can remember other than possibly a new creative outlet my time here turned out to be a really nice experience.

I found this studio online through a deals site and even though my voucher had just expired the owner said it was ok and scheduled me anyway. When it was time to paint we waited awhile for others to show up but they never did so I got a private painting lesson which was cool, however if you can’t make it then at least call out of respect for the instructor and the others in the class.

Everyone in the BYOB class, in this case me, chooses one painting that everyone will follow along with and paint as the teacher does. This is a much more authentic and immersive way to conduct the class than letting painters choose their own canvas with a stenciled image on it which I’ve seen elsewhere. You get two hours to paint but I kept finding myself needing more time to complete certain elements and having to rush a bit but I am quite a perfectionist so that’s normal for me.

I could sense a bit of irritation from me wanting to take my time and asking a lot of questions but overall my painting instructor and the owner (who has a lot of experience) were kind and I left feeling accomplished and like painting is much less daunting and much more doable than I assumed before.

I will say that the mall the small studio is in is a bit sketchy, however if you’re near the area or even not like myself and just want a positive artistic experience with passionate instruction then I would definitely recommend stopping by one evening. You’ll get to know someone who is passionate about their craft and may even acquire a new artistic passion yourself.