First, I didn't go in with the expectation of producing quality art to hang on my wall. I'm an artist, but painting isn't my first medium. I believe these type of events are more about the experience. They can be fun for a group event with family, friends or co-workers.
CONS: It is in the basement, so there are no windows (if that is something that bothers you). The instructor talked too much (personal, not conversational), and would disappear unexpectedly at different times. She only came around a couple of times to offer tips and assistance, and seemed a bit impatient. The setup was a bit awkward from some viewpoints, as there are pillars in the middle of the room. They have monitors to assist, but it can still be hard to see what they're doing, and the "color chart" was impossible to see for most of us. It felt like we spent a lot of time mixing colors, and then quickly dabbing the paint on canvas to catch up with the instructor. We felt rushed. I believe the sessions are supposed to be 2.5 to 3 hours, but we were there about 2 hours at most.
PROS: It's in the heart of downtown Jeff, near great restaurants and the Big 4 walking bridge, all in walking distance. There is a lot of free parking nearby as well. There were bright paintings all down the hallways, and in the large basement studio, which cheered up the space. It was neat and clean, and everything was easily accessible. The instructor was friendly and joked around with us some. She put on a playlist of music, which was her own choice of hits but she offered to put on something we would like if we wanted. We had a good time joking off and on while we tried to follow along. We all ended up with different results, and had fun being together and laughing at our mistakes.
Overall, we had fun, but because that is what we brought into it. A big part of these experiences does lie with the instructor (or host you could say) and their skill at hospitality as well as art. I admit I wouldn't return if I knew the same instructor or someone similar was leading it. (She mentioned several times that she was the owner's daughter.)
Opinions and experiences are subjective, so you should check it out for yourself. read more