I paid a pretty penny for a beginner's class here and over the course of the class has so many…read moreissues that I had to reach out to the director (on behalf of 1/2 of the students). I never received a response back (other than an admin assistant saying a response from the director will come soon.) I posted the full email here, which details how shoddy this was run. Check it out if you want to hear how the instructer never came prepared, how we couldn't use the materials we paid for, or the fact that there was not even a space *in their own building* for us to meet because they kept overbooking rooms. What's more though, I think, is knowing this is how The South Shore Arts center operates and the fact that they don't care enough to address it even when emailed with the explicit details. They already had my $150, so what did they care.

From the owner: South Shore Arts is located in the Center for Visual & Performing Arts in Munster, Indiana. We…read morehave one main gallery and a gallery in the atrium of the building. We teach classes, hold workshops and we have a gift shop at the entrance to the main gallery. We also the local representative for the Indiana Arts Commission for Region 1 (Lake, Porter and La Porte Counties).

Excellent resource to learn a beautiful skill. Glass is fairly priced, the classes are well…read morestructured and informative. I did the more involved class and was thankful I did. It encouraged me to continue with the hobby and grow in my small business.

An absolutely wonderful experience this morning with Melissa. Very helpful and never hovering but…read moreshe was always available for questions. My supplier of choice! Frank and Linda

The selection was far better than shop in Munster on Calumet. The prices were way better and the…read moreservice was pleasant and helpful. I bought a bong for a very reasonable price. I will be back and recommend it.

This shop has by far, the best selection of glass by well known artists and local talent as well…read more It's impressive! I've never seen such a variety. Smoke219 is to smokers what a Best Buy is to techies. You're not going to find a better selection anywhere else. Just as the selection is exceptional, the service was outstanding. I browsed for a couple of minutes when I was greeted by one of the Super courteous staff. I wasn't assaulted and I didn't feel ignored, their service was just the right amount of touch. The last highlight, but not least impressive is the glass blowing that's taking place as you shop! This isn't glass blown fish or dolphins. The art taking place here is beyond anything I've, seen in an open studio. The classes are reasonable, affordable for those who have the passion and skill or, for those who just want to know the basics. I left the shop with my prize, assisted by Tony, who only introduced himself as a worker there (he's actually the owner). Thanks Tony, you helped me make a great choice with no judgment. I give Smoke219 a full unconditional and perfect score of 10!!!

After 5:00 summer series Wednesday wine down:I recently visited this Little Black Pearl, and I have…read moreto say the energy when I walked in was great. I was surrounded by such positive, welcoming people of all ages. Throughout the night, we sang karaoke, played cards, shot pool and listened to good music. What really stood out to me was how safe, inclusive, and comfortable the environment felt. Everyone was so kind and genuine. But what truly touched my heart was how the community embraced my brother, who is special needs. There was no judgment only acceptance, laughter, and open arms. For the first time in a long time, I didn't feel like I had to be on guard, watching to make sure he was being treated with respect because everyone just welcomed. It was a relaxing night filled with connection and joy. I would absolutely come back and recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, warm, and safe space. Thank you for such an unforgettable expeience.

The organization for which I work recently held an event at Little Black Pearl (LBP). The support…read moreand service we received was beyond stellar! LBP provided the space, catered the food (via their onsite cafe, Carver 47), connected us to amazing balloon and floral vendors, and provided other accoutrements (e.g., tables and chairs, table coverings, a stage, sound and tech support, package management). LBP's one-stop shop especially helpful given that our planning team resided outside of Chicago. There is so much to applaud from the experience: the warm and inviting space exuded elegance; the feast was as beautiful as it was delicious; and the LBP team's interactions with us (from planning to completion) was the epitome of grace and hospitality. They accommodated every request and did so with an exceptional level of excellence. When we asked that the menu include a vegetarian and Halal dish, they ensured guests had multiple options. When we requested assistance erecting our banner, they took on the task of assembling the entire structure, even machine washing and drying it when they noticed a stain. Compared to other spaces we considered (and have used in the past) across the city, LBP's offerings and support stood head and shoulders above and their love was palpable in their attention to details.That they have a heart-centered mission and work in support of youth and community was tasty icing on an already amazing cake. Thank you, Little Black Pearl team, for making our event a world-class experience!

Zero. Stars. I have…read morebeen trying to get a good Paintnite event with a group of friends going for years. Never able to realize it: just received notice of the 3rd time that the event I purchased was cancelled suddenly. Absolutely ridiculous. My friend group no longer trusts the events I try to make because they fall through every. single. time. To be honest, it might be the artist's fault since all three were the same artist. (Is there any consequence to them for that? There should be. I would've guaranteed enough people to make it worth it). Regardless, Paintnite staff was not very accommodating, either. They make apologies and say they can take requests, but actually will not (or cannot). What a joke. At some point real soon I am going to demand a full *cash* refund. "Rescheduling" is a joke. 3 years of looking and sifting through the crappy offerings in downtown Chicago area with NOTHING to show for it? Not worth it. I am not even excited about trying it anymore - I can do better by myself. Third time's a charm, I guess. TLDR: sudden cancellations, no refunds, extremely poorly run organization. Do not recommend.

My brother and sis-in-law gave me a Yaymaker gift certificate for my birthday and we decided to do…read morethe Abstract Cow paint event. There weren't very many events in Chicago, most are in the suburbs. We ended up at Glascott's in Lincoln Park, luckily there was something I wanted to paint somewhere close by. There were plenty of boring painting options that I wasn't excited about. Abstract Cow was perfect. The instructor did a really good job overall. This clearly wasn't her first time teaching, and she was entertaining while keeping the instruction clear. The way the room was set up wasn't optimal for seeing what she was doing. The backroom at Glascott's isn't really the best choice for this kind of thing, it was hot, dirty, and dark. That says a lot about Glascott's, but if Yaymaker chooses this venue more than once...meh. I'm actually pretty surprised I left the event looking forward to going to another one. I never expected to enjoy this kind of thing, but Yaymaker does a decent job. If they had more options in locations easier to get to (Paint Your Pet is only at the Itasca Holiday Inn??) I'd probably be planning on another one. Surprisingly enough, my painting actually looks like a cow. My brother and sis-in-law were shocked.

One of my favorite galleries in the region! It has a little something for everyone and I don't mean…read morethat as a cliché. They carry wearable art, functional art, sculptures, paintings, and photography etc. The price ranges vary so really amazing works can also be attainable. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the works they carry. It's located in an older home converted so it's very cozy and really gives off a great vibe. They also have art openings which is a wonderful time to come out because you can talk to the artists about their work and meet new people!