21/100 I didn't know…read morewhat to expect when walking into the Animation Academy, but after a half hour lesson in how to draw a Disney character, I walked out with a pretty good rendition of Tigger drawn by my own, two little hands. I'm not an artist, but the instructor made drawing so easy that anyone can do it. They take you through step by step, using basic shapes and strokes like triangles and circles, and make it all so easy. I can't wait to go back again to see who I get to draw next.

I wish I knew about the Animation Academy earlier! It is literally a hidden gem for all the…read morewannabe artists out there like me. I came across this place on my most recent visit to Disneyland/California Adventure over Thanksgiving break. Since the lines for all the rides were horrendous, my boyfriend and I tried some new things in the parks that were not rides. The Animation Academy was the highlight of the trip. There are "shows" every half hour where you sit inside a mini lecture hall and learn to draw Disney characters. There is a Disney animator who walks you through each step so that you come out with a picture that actually looks pretty good! Things move pretty fast so make sure you keep up with the animator and pay attention. Things can go from simple circles to eyelashes really quickly so here are a few things to keep in mind so that you don't seem so flustered during your first visit to the Academy. 1. Get there at least 10 minutes early so that you are guaranteed a seat. People start to line up. 2. When you choose your row, move down all the way to the end of the row and don't leave spaces between you and the next party. They don't have cooties. But most of all, don't be annoying and stop in the middle so that people have to climb over you. You can see everything from the right or left sides, trust me. 3. Follow along with the animator and don't freak if you make a mistake. Erasers are not allowed. If you come to the Animation Academy and follow along, you will honestly surprise yourself with what you can create! We went three times and drew Tigger, Mickey, and Dale. You can ask the guy at the front to see which characters are coming up so that you can plan your visits around their lesson plans! It is basically a free drawing lesson that can be just as fun for adults as it is for the kids. Actually maybe even more fun for adults.

Our family absolutely loves this art studio! Our three kids have been taking classes here for the…read morepast two years, and what started as something just for them quickly turned into something for all of us. We loved the experience so much that my husband and I decided to start taking classes too--and it's been one of the best decisions we've made. I definitely did not come into the classes feeling like an artist but have gained confidence and skills. One of the things that stands out most is the incredible team of teachers. We've worked with several of them, and every single one is extremely knowledgeable, supportive, and talented at making art accessible for any level. Whether teaching kids or adults, they have a unique ability to meet you where you are and help you grow. As a family, we've explored so many different mediums--colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, acrylics--and we're excited to be starting oil painting soon. It's been amazing to not only try new techniques but to see real improvement in our skills over time. Sara, the studio owner, has been especially wonderful. She's incredibly generous with her time and has worked closely with us as adults to create a personalized plan aligned with our goal of making artwork for our home. That level of care and attention is truly special. Another highlight is the art shows they host, which give students the chance to showcase their work. It's such a fun and encouraging environment where you can meet other artists and celebrate everyone's creativity. We feel so lucky to have found this studio. It's become a meaningful part of our family life, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore or grow their artistic side!

My granddaughter loved this. I signed her up for a 1 week class and she can't wait for it. She did…read moreamazing on her 1st free class and loved it. She is 7 years old

We have taken at least two lessons from renown encaustic artist, Patti Akesson at Canyon Arts…read moreStudio. Patti Is warm, engaging, supportive, encouraging and really allows the artist to explore new methods and techniques of encaustic work. The prices are amazingly reasonable for what we have learned from her. She is an excellent teacher who explains all concepts thoroughly. And Lucy (Are faithful four legged art studio companion) is ADORABLE. Canyon arts studio also offers group lessons at really reasonable prices.

I had the most incredible first experience with encaustics with Patti's weekend workshop. I really…read morehighly recommend that anyone who is curious take this class. It was so fun and freeing. Patti is truly an incredible artist and I felt so lucky to have stumbled upon her studio. She has so much knowledge to dispense. I was able to create a very special piece, and can't wait to explore this medium more. Thank you thank you thank you!!! I love encaustics and have barely begun!

This school is a class act…read more I learned more here in a year than they taught my friend with a "Masters" degree in art from her fancy pants art college (diploma mill) she was at for several years. Post graduation (and six figure student load debt) she still can't draw hands. But this place had me off and running in the first two weeks. The teachers were divine. Especially Tim. Not just as artists who truly believed in the methods they learned here and taught, but as human beings who appeared to take individual interest in every student, young or old. Years later, I still look back on these classes with fondness and am considering taking them again along with a new friend who wants to learn basic drawing skills, and maybe even progress to painting. If you stick with the curriculum, you will learn. Practice, and you might be shocked at how quickly you progress. Our class was a short walk from a coffee shop, and quickly became a little group who all looked forward to every class. I miss that enough I am thinking of going back. I felt like I was "getting" the material taught here after about two weeks, but I recommend the Free Class to see if it's for you, and if you like it, at least 4 weeks after that to really have a feel for it. At least that's what it took for me. But after that, I was all in. Like any skill worth having, it takes patience and practice over time. But it's totally worth it! People who can manage to respect class schedules, practice self-discipline and are eager to learn will enjoy this stimulating environment, the teaching methods, the skilled staff, and most likely take joy in their progress over time. Maybe even make new friends here. Maybe even fall in love with it. But entitled parents or choosing beggars who want refunds on FREE classes will probably not enjoy the full benefits or learning experience as they appear to have difficulty getting along with just about everyone based their other reviews. Consider the source before you let it dampen your own enthusiasm for the chance to take pride in your art or that of your child.

My child has been studying art at the Studio City location for more than 3 years and it's been a…read moreterrific overall experience. We have worked with Ms. Bryce and under her marvelous instruction my child is now painting masterpieces in advanced oils. My child enjoys the supportive instruction and the ability to chat with new friends who share a common interest in art. The studio is flexible in offering make up classes and different days and times to fit into my child's schedule. The individual attention my kid gets really helps her improve her skills and knowledge. It's always been rewarding to see my child progress from basic drawings to watercolors and now oils. My child attended the art camp for two summers and she loved it. The students always have fun at the art show at the end of class. My child is very proud of her art work, and I am so happy that we found Mission Renaissance!

First of all, without saying a thing about the program, Pam & John are the best. Two of the kindest…read morepeople I have ever worked with. My son has taken several creative classes at Village Arts and he has loved them. He has learned so much in so many different avenues/disciplines. All of his instructors have been wonderful. Highly recommended!

From the owner: Village Arts is a non-profit with the mission to provide superior arts programs in theatre, dance,…read moremovement, singing, acting, comedy/improv as well as classes in the visual and media arts. We are located in Valley Village/North Hollywood area in Los Angeles. We offer classes to pre-schoolers all the way up to middle school students. Our programs run year round and in summer we offer a five week theatre camp where a fully produced musical is performed in addition to having classes in dance, improv, singing and the visual arts. Our programs is open to any child that is interested in exploring performance and visual arts. We believe that the arts provide a unique learning experience and we want every child to find confidence and value through the work they take on at our programs. Village Arts also looks to promote the community of North Hollywood and the Valley. Our motto is that Village Arts is a place for everyone. Village Arts offer scholarships and financial aid to students t

Prospective student that registered for the upcoming semester. I noticed that I had a travel…read moreconflict with the orientation session and the manager that I spoke with was so understanding and was able to find an accommodation for me to take the class an earlier day with the same instructor. For the 9 class package at 3 hours a session this is priced very affordably and so I am looking forward to experiencing the quality of instruction given the difficulty I've had in securing a spot. Luckily I waitlisted this semester so I was able to snag a coveted Saturday afternoon slot. Will update following a few sessions

Great studio. The teachers are nice people and good potters, but they want to know you are serious…read more Show up on time for classes and ready to work, and you'll have a good experience. Show up when you can, and not so much. Like all programs, businesses, and people these days, there is a schedule. If you're late for a class, the instructors are deep into helping others, which is reasonable. The instruction tends to be at the beginning. Kitty is a good instructor.

The owner of Art Rebel is an amazing artist named ponti. He has an incredible business in Art Rebel…read morebut beyond that he himself is a iconic artist I had set decorated a 20th century fox show called Empire and I had reached out to him to give him the color, palette and size and had him do several custom paintings for Terrance Howard's office and other sets. He collaborated with me in regards to the colors that I needed and also some different styles. He has a amazing inventory of iconic art that I would urge anyone to ask him to see for purchase. Also, upon commission like I did with him for a show any Set Decorator or designer or person that loves art would love him. This particular character was Terrence Howard, who was a hip-hop Mogul in the story so the hip-hop vibe that is very much alive in pontia work was perfect. I can't say enough about his business Art Rebel because it is from adult fun to kids but extremely unique compared to a typical art business for corporations or birthday parties as it has an edge to it and is very hip and unique in the style that they present to the customer in Art Rebel! So much fun and you forget about your problems and very healing for me.

I threw my 31st birthday party at Art Rebel recently and it was an absolutely amazing experience. I…read morecame across the website randomly when looking for a local venue and once we checked it out in person I knew it was going to be perfect. Ponti helped execute my vision for the party and he and his staff were so helpful and pleasant the entire night. They brought such great energy! My guests were wowed by the space and had a blast looking at all the artwork and details under the blacklights. We converted one of the rooms into a designated dance floor for swing dancing (though we ended up dancing in the main room as well!) and had activity stations that included spin art, neon playdough, and a graffiti wall to doodle and write birthday messages, which were all so fun. The speakers were integrated in every room and with the volume turned up, it was such a VIBE. There are blacklights in all rooms except one, which we used as the designated eating area with plenty of room to set up food and utilize the bar. We were a group of about 40 people (including the staff) and honestly could have crammed about twice as many people in there if we wanted! It's a lot more spacious than it looks in photos. In the end, I was more than happy with the group size since there was enough space to dance and play without feeling crowded. I couldn't recommend Art Rebel Studio enough for events, it was a total blast. Huge THANK YOU to Ponti & Team for such a memorable night!!

Michelle is an amazing acting coach. She has helped me break through many walls in my work and…read morealways does it with such compassion and insight. I couldn't ask for a more supportive coach! She is the best!

I love Michelle! I have worked with her for years and she knows her stuff…read more She never makes you feel bad about your work, she only helps you get there. She's really sweet and has a positive attitude. She understands a scene, I love it! Really opens you up and allows you to play.

Cute space! It got my attention when I parked in the area to run some errands!…read more My first thought was: I wish I could have learnt how to sew his way! So much cuter, nicer, better. Back in the day, in the Old country, it was tense, stressful. But I learnt something and I can mend clothes to this day. Useful skill! Since my friend's little daughter wanted to learn how to sew, I got her a couple of lessons here as a birthday present. Reviews were good! She liked it a lot, learnt some and she'll go back. Had a nice time with Miss Shannon and liked her a lot. Classes for adults as well, reasonable prices, check the site for the schedule, call or drop by to see the enchanted world inside!

Oh man. I don't know exactly where to start because I have so many good things to say about this…read moreamazing little shop. First and foremost, I have not one sewing bone in my body, and sadly my grandmother is long gone as that was her niche. My pre teen had been asking for years to learn how to sew and I finally stumbled upon Miss Shannon's class when a few moms from a mom group I'm a part of recommended her classes. From the start, Miss Shannon has been nothing but welcoming. You need to email her to get class info as you aren't able to schedule classes online. I like that though because it's nice to actually talk with the owner and ask any questions you might have. My daughter has had Bella as her instructor for a few months now and my daughter just loves her. We do bring our own sewing machine because my daughter also uses hers at home and it's nice to really learn the machine you'll be working with. They do have sewing machines there for your kids to use though. The first class they teach you how to use the machine, how to thread it, how to make a bobbin, etc, and you will make a cute little pillow. The second class I believe the kids make a tote bag, the class after that project is completed you'll make a pair of pajama pants, and the class after that project is completed you'll make a heavy duty sewing bag, which was my daughters favorite project because she's able to fit her sewing machine and other materials in that bag to bring to class. You will need to bring your own fabric for the tote bags and pajama pants and any other projects you have moving forward. Right now my daughter has been enjoying making different shirts in class. We get the patterns off of Etsy and the projects are completed in class. I saw one student was making a cute little romper. My daughter looks forward to going to class every week and loves Miss Shannon and Bella. They create such a great working environment and aren't afraid to nix any negative energies, which I really appreciate. It's important for these kids to work in a positive environment where their creativity can flow. These two truly care about kids and teaching the art of sewing to the next generation. Right now it is $38 for a two hour class. Payment info is posted inside the shop, or you can ask Miss Shannon directly. Venmo is the preferred method. There is street parking and there is a lot behind the shop, but I've never parked there so I'm not sure if that's a lot for customers or not. These are also drop off classes as the shop inside is pretty small so it's really only big enough to seat the students. I will park my car out in front and read for a couple of hours instead of going home and coming back. I also really appreciate that they lock the doors during class, which is added security for everyone. If your child wants to learn how to sew or wants a safe space to work on their sewing projects, this is the right place for you to be.