One River Art School (49 N Dean Street, Englewood, 201-266-5244)
A loft like gallery space (with up and coming artists’ works on display) on South Dean in Englewood is just one source of inspiration budding artists will find when they report to one of the many classes offered at One River School. Founder Matt Ross’ mission to give Bergenites a taste of the NYC art world by using his connections with city curators allows students young and older to work with various mediums and methods to encourage a fearless approach to art- in everything from sculpture to digital design. Rolling admissions allow ease and flexibility in registering, so you can check it out whenever your kid’s creativity strikes.
Couture Craft Studio (10 Franklin Tpke, Waldwick, 201- 925-0059) If you’ve got a crafter on your hands, better let them mess up someone else’s table right? Well, sticky glue stains and sparkle spills are welcome at the DIYer’s haven Couture Craft Studio. Owner Jaime has made CCS the place for creative little hands to be- with her whimsical projects that your kids will have fun making. Fall classes kick off in September for Lil Crafters (up to 3 years) through Craftstation (ages 6 and up) and busy moms can enroll by the single class or save by buying a package.
The Art School at Old Church (561 Piermont Road, Demarest, 201-767-7160)
Situated in a 19th century church building, with over 4 working studios and a gallery, The Art School at Old Church gets creative juices flowing. Interested in photography or glass blowing? No problem. One of the school’s professional artists on staff will teach you their craft. This community art school also features “young artists” classes in everything from cartooning to pottery-on-the-wheel for your budding creator. Mom’s love the hour and a half sessions which give ample time for the kiddos to let their creativity run wild.
The Drawing Room (27 Central Avenue, Midland Park, 201-447-7272)
Drawing to a live flautist playing in the background? Yup they’ve done it here. Passionate owner Christine Zaccardi loves what she does and it shows in her hands on approach to the ever changing curriculum. No project is repeated and various themes are woven through mediums such as watercolors, clay, paper mache, and printing. Called “excellent” by its clientele, this hidden gem encourages thinking outside the box. The professionally trained staff will also work one on one with teens interested in developing a portfolio of work for presentation to an art program. The studio offers classes for all ages and skill levels, including special needs children.
The Art Spot (194 E. Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, 201-444-6155) We love this studio’s approach to art and it’s easy “drop in” format where you pay by the hour and are given all the tools to create (and frame!) your own masterpiece. But don’t let the casual scheduling fool you. The teaching staff is a group of talented and experienced artists who will assist in honing your work and help you develop your skills if you come regularly.
Cheryl Fudge Fashion Camp (512 Livingston St, Northvale, (201) 768-3600) If you’re kid likes to shred up her leggings and bling out her tee shirts, then she’ll go wild at Cheryl Fudge Fashion Camp. Start with a base piece of clothing from their in house boutique (think anything from burnout tees to jean jackets), add in accoutrements, and now she’s got a hand made, one-of-a-kind wearable piece of art that probably won’t end up stashed in the back of a drawer.
