The light in Art Work’s high ceilinged studio pours through large windows over long wooden tables spattered with paint. Neatly arranged art supplies line the working area and painting smocks drape over pegs like bohemian bunting. I was there to get information on the new collaboration between Art Works and Hands on 3rd (http://handson3rd.com/) (which just moved from Third and Kings Road), but it was hard to resist simply plopping down on a chair and starting to paint or sculpt or knit.
According to Hands on 3rd‘s, Renee Ridgeley, she and the director of Art Works, Cyndi Finkle, have been talking about collaborating for years. In March, it all came together and Hands on 3rd moved into Art Works permanently. Both entities will continue their popular curriculum, with Hands on 3rd focusing on sewing, knitting, jewelry, and crafts. Art Works offers drawing, painting, and sculpting classes. And, being a novice knitter myself, I was happy to hear that both studios offer classes for kids and adults.
I spoke to core art teacher, Julio Panisello, about what set Art Works apart from other art classes around Los Angeles and he said that they offer a curriculum that is more elevated and complex than that taught in schools. Not to take anything away from schools, Art Works is committed to collaborating with them and building on the skills that each student already has. According to Julio, many students have been coming to Art Works for a few years, developing their talent over a period of time and forming important relationships with the staff.
With a similar philosophy, Hands on 3rd concentrates both on skills (ones that I sorely need) as well as seeing an entire project through to completion.
I was particularly excited to hear that some of Art Works’ curriculum is informed by current exhibitions around town. For example, when LACMA featured a Magritte exhibit, Art Works focused specific attention on surrealism. Which made me wonder if, inspired by Magritte’s painting of a pipe entitled, “This is not a pipe”, Art Works might be able to say that their art studio isn’t simply an art studio — but also a thriving part of the Larchmont community.
Art Works Studio & Classroom 660 N. Larchmont Blvd, LA CA 90004
Artworks Studio & Classroom: Class Schedule
Hands on 3rd: Class Schedule
