Art is more than just a creative outlet. It’s a way to relax, express yourself, and connect with others. Whether you’re looking to nurture your child’s creativity or pick up your own new hobby, art classes have something for everyone.
From painting to drawing, pottery and beyond, local studios offer a range of programs for both experienced and novice artists. For anyone wanting to start the year off with a worthwhile pursuit, art is the whole package – self-improvement (through new skills), self-expression, self-discovery and self-pampering. It can also be an absolute blast!
THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON ART
Why should you add art classes to your child’s schedule, or your own? For kids, art is more than just doodles and finger paint. Among its many developmental benefits, art builds fine motor skills and improves hand-eye coordination. It also provides an outlet for self-expression, emotions, and fostering important life skills.
“Art is a great way to help kids focus and learn patience,” says Zoe Medel, studio manager at 4Cats Art Studio in Burlington. “With drawing and painting, you really have to have the patience and focus when doing different techniques.”
Keir Overton, Director of Marketing, Events & Digital Strategy at the Dundas Valley School of Art, agrees,adding that art helps foster important developmental skills. “Mixing paint colours is a process of exploration and experimentation, while constructing a sculpture to stand tall and be supported involves critical thinking and problem solving.”
In a fast-paced world, art also gives kids valuable time to develop a sense of self. “Art can create a space for kids to slow down and focus on their own making in a way that is self-directed and deeply fulfilling,” says Stephanie Vegh, Head of Learning at the Art Gallery of Burlington.
But the rewards aren’t just for kids! Adults, too, reap incredible benefits from artistic pursuits.
“For some, the art-making process is a journey of self-discovery and expression,” Overton explains. “For others, it’s about mastering a skill or pursuing excellence. Art can also offer healing and an avenue for processing life’s challenges.” The Dundas Valley School of Art offers diploma programs but also has introductory programs in every art medium, from painting and drawing to glass art, ceramics and even photography.
Carving out time in your week for an art class provides an opportunity to rest the active side of your brain – the one that’s always making grocery lists, paying bills and checking off your to-do list – and re-awaken the often-neglected right side. Art classes can even enrich your social life. “An art class can be a wonderful environment for meeting new people and encountering new ideas while also making time for your own personal creative growth,” says Vegh.
READY FOR ART CLASS?
Halton Region is home to many art studios with a variety of offerings. There really is something for everyone, whether you’re six or 60. If you’re looking to get creative as a family, the Art Gallery of Burlington offers a free Family Open Studio on Sundays and a free space for exploring various art forms. This winter, the Family Open Studios will also feature different materials every two weeks such as fabric scraps, cardboard tubes, scrap paper and boxes. Family Open Studio happens on Sunday afternoons from 1 to 4 pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, and early registration is recommended.
4Cats Art Studio offers multi-week programs covering a variety of programs for children, teens and adults as well as PA day workshops and family programs that encourage parent and child bonding through visual arts.
From pottery to drawing and sculpting, there’s always something new to discover. Check out a local studio to find an artform that speaks to you.
LOCAL LINKS
4CATS ARTS STUDIO
Burlington & Oakville locations
4cats.com
ART FOR LIFE 4 KIDS
2025 William O’Connell Blvd # 14,
Burlington
artforlife4kids.ca
ART GALLERY OF BURLINGTON
1333 Lakeshore Road
agb.life
CREATIVE INSIGHT POTTERY
23 Main St S, Waterdown
creativeinsightpottery.com
DUNDAS VALLEY SCHOOL OF ART
21 Ogilvie Street, Dundas
dvsa.ca
OAKVILLE ART SOCIETY
560 Bronte Road, Oakville
oakvilleartsociety.com
BEYOND POTTERY
3228 South Service Road #116,
Burlington
beyondpottery.ca
POTTERY N PAINT CAFE
3513 Wyecroft Road # H1,
Oakville
potterynpaintcafe.com
BY LISA EVANS
