Need an Art Studio? Here is One! (not open until further notice)

Note: Open Studios will not be open until further notice

UKIAH, CA - The Mendocino Art Association (MCAA) in participation with the Ukiah Parks and Recreation offers an art studio open to all artists. Open Studio is every Monday morning from 9:30 am until 2:00 pm at the Grace Hudson Community Room, 431 South Main Street, Ukiah. The space has great light, other working artists, and a friendly atmosphere. The fee for MCAA members is $4.00 and non-members $5.00. For more information call Jim Denham at 707 272-3749.

Open Studio is run on a “drop-in” basis, no need to register, just come for as long a time as you wish. There is no instructor. Bring your art materials and enjoy the inspiration and congeniality of painting with fellow artists. The studio has large windows letting in wonderful light, it is warm and spacious, and each artist can use a provided table and chair or bring your own standing easel. A drop cloth to protect the carpeted floor and a cover for the table are required. Also bring your lunch and enjoy the comradery of sharing a meal. Logistical questions can be addressed to Jim Denham by calling 707 272-3749. Space is limited to ages 18 and older.

Open Studio has been open to everyone for many, many years and many of the regular artists have been participating with one another for many of those years and have a great fondness for the experience. Here are some of their comments about why they attend week after week.

Jim Denham acts as host for the studio and has also painted in the space for years. A retired high school science teacher, he has been drawing since he was 5 when he concentrated his efforts on Disney Characters. He started using oils when his wife brought home a beginner’s kit. Jim says “I enjoy painting and I would not paint on a regular basis if we did not have Open Studio, I enjoy the company of fellow painters.”

“Open Studio and the art that I create helps me to remember what makes me an original” commented Ginger O’Shea who paints in acrylics and has won numerous Fair Ribbons for her art.

“Art has been therapy through many changes in my life; Open Studio gives me the space and comradery to indulge my need to create” says Catherine Lair who works in acrylics and has created large canvases. Catherine is currently working in watercolors and pen to create fantasy art of pastries which she will be showing at Schat's Bakery in October.

Valerie Peters worked in oils off and on throughout her life. She took an MCAA pastel workshop with instructor Clark Mitchell and is now concentrating on that medium in addition to using watercolor as a base for her pastels. Valerie imparts, “Open Studio is a great resource not only because it provides space to work but the supportive companionship of other artists. We have fun!”

“The Monday morning painting group at Grace Hudson is a great group in which to share information, socialize, have lunch with and share ideas. I think I would quit painting if I didn’t have this group to join each Monday” says Jan Byland. Jan has won multiple awards from her entries in the local fair and has taken a series of classes with Adele Pruitt for many years.

As can be seen, artists work in various mediums in Open Studio with space to create art in the warm company of fellow artists. Drop in and get a feel for the studio and its equipment and decide if it is right for you. You will be welcomed.

The Mendocino County Art Association was established in 1954 and is the oldest art organization in the County. MCAA’s objective is to offer lectures, workshops, classes and art exhibits for the benefit of its members and the public at large. Members receive first option to attend workshops and Open Studio at reduced rates as well as opportunities to show their art in banks and galleries. Membership in MCAA is $35 a year, call 707 391-8469 to join or receive more information on the benefits of membership.