"It’s fun and games, sure, but it’s also very important for child development. Producing things through art is an arena for thinking."

~ James Catterall Professor Emeritus, UCLA Education Department

About Open Studio

Here is your chance to get those creative juices flowing! At Art Explorium we believe that engaging in art helps promote creativity, problem solving, the ability to focus, and many other important life skills. Open Studio time allows parents and children to drop in, use our materials, and get creative through a self-guided exploration of art. Each week we set up several art stations where children and parents can dabble in various art activities such as drawing, painting, printing, sculpting and more. We usually change two of our stations once a week (on Wednesdays). Check out to see the latest art activities. We also encourage our visitors to reuse all kinds of items that are normally discarded (used bottle caps, small boxes, magazines, old pieces of ribbon, six-pack soda rings, and much more). These items provide freedom for kids to make art (and maybe even some mistakes!) in a casual and fun setting. At the same time, they encourage our participants to think more carefully about how we can better utilize our planet’s limited resources.

We provide ample space for budding artists to create. We also offer ideas, supplies and all the materials you need to make your next masterpiece. You are welcome to bring in your own materials as well: please check out our Donate Stuff guidelines on what types of materials we accept at Art Explorium. Unless we are working on a special group or community project you are welcome to take home your own creations.

Want to know more? Please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Guest Artists
Sometimes we bring in guest artists during Open Studio time. While they are not teaching formal classes, they are usually doing special projects and are available to offer guidance and personal attention to the participants in the studio that day. Topics vary but include activities such as painting, drawing, mosaics, printing, and more.

Hours
Please view our Calendar for our Open Studio hours. *Open Studio hours are subject to change without notice.*

Fees
Open Studio Fees are currently $5/person.

Children under 18 months are free.
Fees are subject to change without notice.

Helpful Open Studio Guidelines

• When you arrive, please check in at our reception desk.
• Parent involvement makes this an even more enriching experience: we encourage parents to participate in the creation of art while giving children the freedom to choose their own direction.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Please respect our space and other Art Explorium visitors. Put away materials you are not using and clean up your space when you finish.
• Wear footwear and clothes you don’t mind getting messy.
• Have a great time!