Art In the Square

What a great find. I had walked by this place for years and it wasn’t until a friend suggested that we take a painting class did I discover this Lincoln Square gem. They offer art classes most days of the week for children and adults. The instructors are artists and very helpful in helping you to realize your true talent. I had never taken a painting class and wasn’t sure that I would be able to create anything and now having completed my fifth painting in 12 weeks, I am so happy. It’s fun and challenging but relaxing and a great creative outlet. My instructor Daniel Doyle is awesome. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

I work for a bank. Almost zero creativity opportunity here-​but I felt a need to use the right side of my brain. So I buy art supplies and think I will use them. But, the purchased art supplies lay unused in my flat next to the good intentions. So I figured, maybe a class? The few I checked into seemed really expensive, like $ 500 +, which frankly seems a bit pricey for a guy with questionable talent and chronic inertia. Then, as I past Art in the Square, I saw a posting for a workshop for abstract painting. $ 50. Perfect. It was for an afternoon and required minimal commitment!
I knew no one, but was high fived by another student when I first arrived and greeted by the question «You’re the walk in? That’s awesome.» The positive encouraging atmosphere didn’t end there, and neither has my attendance. I signed up for 6 weeks for $ 180. I IMMEDIATELY recognized this price as something far south of $ 500. There are several adult classes you can attend, but I usually go on Wednesday nights.
Student’s talents and experience range from those that have NEVER doodled to some amazing «Why aren’t you professionally selling your paintings» type talent. Ages are from 20’s to 60’s. The owner/​teacher Pam and her trusty assistant Amy have different styles, but they consistently encourage, allowing for students to ask for as much help as they want, need, or even if they don’t. Students decide their own projects in a variety of media. The atmosphere is relaxed, music plays in the background, students banter, and occasionally bring treats to share. Including the occasional bottle of wine.
I should mention that the majority of the studio’s income is derived from children’s classes. I’m not able to comment on those except to say that I see some amazing work done by some very young children that would probably never have an opportunity to develop their talent in a public school.
To recap, let me say that Wednesday nights have become the highlight of my week. What a great place to have an outlet for my work anxieties and a place to tap into another part of my brain. My art supplies no longer remain useless. Not sure if I have any talent, but I enjoy myself. I posted one of the paintings I did. Y’all come check this studio out!