By Josh
Studios on the Park is a great little art gallery right off the main square in downtown Paso Robles. It features many different artists and even has a monthly painting class where you can try it out yourself. I went to explore the art studio and for one of those classes, here is all the information:
Details
• Cost: Free but asking for a $2 donation to visit, painting is $50-$70
• Hours: Thurs – Sun: 12PM – 6PM
• Location: 1130 Pine St, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Getting There
The studio is located on the East side of the large downtown park and there is ample parking along the street.
The Gallery
The gallery itself is wide and inviting. When you walk in you will see the main desk which features the front of an old car and is a fun way to get yourself in the mood for browsing the beautiful art here.
All of the different artists have their own little areas which feature their work or a combination of multiple artists work. Often when you visit you will see the artist there talking about their art or actually making it right in front of you.
I am by no means an art aficionado but I really did enjoy this spot as I found a lot of different pieces that peaked my interest. It is definitely worth walking around in while you are in downtown Paso Robles.
Painting
If you go for one of their monthly painting experiences like I did then you will see that the main walkway for the interior of the studio is set up with a large table, blank canvases and paint supplies.
I was there for about 2 hours and during that time I got a ton of experience in how the art process works, while also attempting to paint a piece myself. All 8 of us who were there were painting the same piece and it was a lot of fun to see how all of the different people had different takes on the same thing.
The teacher was fantastic as well and was actually one of the artists that had her work on display which was super cool. My painting turned out about as good as I could have hoped for, but that wasn’t from lack of good teaching but from my lack of painting abilities.
All in all it was a really fun experience, one that I highly recommend you check out if you are in the area when it is happening. I loved sitting in the beautiful gallery and trying to create art myself as it gave me a greater respect for the beautiful creations that lined the walls right around me. Even if there are no classes though be sure to wander around the gallery as well. Let me know if you have been in the comments or if you have another gallery in the area you like visiting.
