Start Where You Are: Local Resources to Begin Your Art Journey (at Any Age)
When I first decided I wanted to make art, I had no idea where to begin.
Like a lot of people, I started with a low-cost, on-demand class. It was convenient… and completely frustrating. I didn’t need a menu of techniques—I needed encouragement, guidance, and, honestly, other people.
Since then, I’ve uncovered a lot of wonderful local art resources, and I want to share them with you. But before we dive into the list, let me give you the single most important piece of advice I’ve learned: go to in-person classes and meetups.
Art, for me, has become so much more than making pretty pictures. It’s been a lifeline—something that grounds me, stretches me, and keeps me curious.
And the best part? It connects me to people in the most unexpected and delightful ways.
Almost everything is local to the greater Los Angeles area, but there are a few tips for those living elsewhere. I give my honest take on what to expect. Some of these places helped shape my own creative journey, and every one of them is worth a look.
So get off the comfy couch. Step away from your inbox. Go try something new, in real life, with real people.
You might feel like you don’t have time to add one more thing to your schedule.
But respectfully? You can’t afford not to.
Fine Art Classes
La Cañada Community Center
This is where I got started. Lovely facility, very well-run. A bit “grown-up” in vibe, but a great place to begin.
La Canada Community Center
4469 Chevy Chase Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
McGroarty Arts Center
A friendly, free-spirited place—great for beginners. I outgrew the class offerings, but it’s a great place to start.
McGroarty Arts Center
7570 McGroarty Terrace, Tujunga, CA 91042
Creative Arts Group
My current “home.” Incredible instruction and a welcoming atmosphere, even for beginners. Classes fill fast.
Creative Arts Group
108 N Baldwin Ave, Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Barnsdall Art Center
Excellent, affordable classes—but tough to get in. Registration happens online and you must be on time.
Barnsdall Art Center
4814 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Craft & Maker Spaces
Center for the Arts Eagle Rock
Small classes, beautiful historic building, great instructors. A hidden gem.
Center for The Arts Eagle Rock
2225 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Remainders Creative Reuse
A bright, well-stocked workspace for makers, crafters, and creatives of all kinds.
Remainders Creative Reuse
787 E Washington Blvd suite 101, Pasadena, CA 91104
LACMA Create & Collaborate (ages 55+)
FREE programs for older adults. I’m currently loving their 8-week weaving class
LACMA Create and Collaborate
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Art Group Meetups
Urban Sketchers Los Angeles
Big, vibrant community of urban artists. Free and full of personality. There is probably an Urban Sketch group in your area. Check Facebook or the internets. It is my favorite art group, period.
UrbanSketchers LA
Thursday En Plein Air
Chill, scenic, welcoming, and free. The group meets in the Pasadena area every week. A beautiful way to spend a Thursday.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/396845413661032
Painting with Pete
$20/session, includes a live demo from Pete Morris, instructor critique, and feedback. Email Pete to join: petemorrisart@yahoo.com
Art Clubs
Mid Valley Arts League (MVAL)
Warm community, excellent demos, and a wonderful annual “Masters in the Park” event.
MidValley Arts League
ALTA Arts Collective
Your go-to for local happenings, art shows, and classes. Their open studio tour is a don’t-miss.
ALTA Arts
Where to Buy Art Supplies (Without Overspending)
Blue Rooster Art Supplies
Locally owned, friendly, and thoughtfully curated. A joy to browse.
📍 Pasadena: 1626 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
📍 Los Feliz: 1718 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
🌐 Blue Rooster
Blick Art Materials
Corporate chain, huge selection, competitive pricing. A bit overwhelming, but reliable.
📍 44 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105
🌐 Blicks
Artist & Craftsman Supply
My favorite downtown gem. Funky, eclectic, and full of hard-to-find treasures. Free off-street parking is available.
📍 1917-1921 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
🌐 Artist and Craftsman Supply
National Chain Stores
Just, don't. The sales aren't real because the everyday price is a lot higher than the sources listed above.
If you don't have locally owned art supply stores, check out the online retailers listed below.
Online Sources
Whenever practical I buy my art supplies locally. Selfishly, I see it as a chance to discover new art supplies and dream a little. But there are occasional deals and discoveries to be had online, as well.
Jerry’s Artarama:
St. Louis Art Supply:
Amazon: Watercolor paint is almost always more expensive on Amazon, but I love Baohong and Leyton watercolor paper and a few fun things. In fact... I'll do a post on my supplies and where I got them. Would you like that?
Hit reply and tell me what you want to see!