SHARE:  

Volume 85 | November 2024

CLASSES

WORKSHOPS

EVENTS

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

Unwrap the Joys of the Holidays at Gingerbread Lane!

Gingerbread Lane is almost here—stroll through a magical, twinkling wonderland filled with holiday cheer! Marvel at our 17-foot decorated tree beside Santa’s workshop. Indulge in holiday treats with gingerbread cookies and hot cider from our culinary area, and get creative with activities like cookie decorating, clay ornament painting, and more! With all-day activities to keep you in the spirit, we’ve also scheduled performances by talented music groups and youth organizations from across the Coachella Valley. Don’t miss Santa and Mrs. Claus each Saturday from 12:00 - 4:00 pm! Join us from 11:00 am - 5:00 pm for free family fun,

sponsored by the City of La Quinta.


Now Seeking Entertainment!

Please send inquiries to angel@oldtownartisanstudios.org.


Volunteer at Gingerbread Lane!

Learn more here.

Old Town Artisan Studios is proud to host a variety of signature events, from community art shows to entertaining activities for the whole family! By attending our ticketed events, you not only enjoy a wonderful experience but also support our mission to share art.

Join us for fun and creativity while making a meaningful impact!

OPENING RECEPTION

TOMORROW!


A variety of paintings, photographs, prints, sculptures, and mixed media works will be on display and up for raffle to raise funds for our mission. Visitors have the opportunity to win their favorite artworks by purchasing raffle tickets in person. Thank you to all the artists who have contributed artwork!


ART SHOW & FUNDRAISER

November 6 - December 16


OPENING RECEPTION

Thursday, November 7

5:00 - 7:00pm

HOLIDAY HIGH TEA


Generously Sponsored by

Friends of the Arts & Joyce Title


Enjoy an elegant tea menu and more, while making a meaningful impact in our community. By attending, you’ll be dsupporting our mission to bring the joy of art to underserved groups in the Coachella Valley. All proceeds go to funding transportation for outreach youth and adults to come to Old Town Artisan Studios for special events and classes.


HOLIDAY TEA DATES


Wednesday, December 4 - Sold Out!

Friday, December 6 - Almost Sold Out!


Inspired by our mission, this series fuses musical performance with conversation, education, and storytelling. Be swept up by the beautiful surroundings, engaging community, and local talent.


SEASON LINEUP


10/10 - Lauri Bono

11/14 - Deanna Bogart

12/12 - Desert Winds Jazz

01/09 - Tommy Rox

02/13 - Lisa Lynn & the Broken Hallelujahs

03/13 - Ken O'Malley

04/10 - Fred Benedetti


Tickets now available!

Calling all musicians, poets, comedians, songwriters, storytellers, and artists alike! Old Town Artisan Studios is hosting a monthly Open Mic Night with stage, PA, and host, Bob Hamilton, every third Monday from 6-8pm. Enjoy a featured food truck from our local community! Free Admission.


FOOD TRUCK LINEUP


10/21 - 760 Teppanyaki

11/18 - Big Easy Sandwich

12/16 - Nick's Pizza

01/20 - Experimental Concepts

02/24 - Cooking Thai by Benz

03/17 - Outside the Masa

04/21 - Dad's Burgers

Explore the creativity of La Quinta artists during this highly anticipated two-day experience. Venture into the inspiring studios of talented local artists focused on various mediums, such as painting, batik, fused glass, jewelry, mixed media, and more!


OPEN STUDIO DATES


Friday, March 14 &

Saturday, March 15


More info coming soon!




ONLY A FEW WEEKS AWAY!

Mark your Calendars for Spring Class Registration Week!

Tuesday, November 19

All Pottery Wheel classes

Wednesday, November 20

Glass, Drawing, and Painting

Thursday, November 21

Ceramics I, II, & III

Friday, November 22

All Youth Classes

CLASS CATALOG: SPRING 2025 (YOUTH)
CLASS CATALOG: SPRING 2025 (ADULT)


Fall Classes are still available!

Please review Studio Policies here.

If your desired class is full, please join the waitlist here. Cancellations do happen, and we would love to offer you any seat that becomes available!

See full list of classes here.



CLICK ON THE IMAGES BELOW TO REGISTER

Unleash your creativity with our wide selection of art workshops at Old Town Artisan Studios. We now offer more workshops than ever, covering a diverse range of mediums. Whether you're an experienced artist or a complete beginner, there's a workshop for you.

UPCOMING WORKSHOP


CERAMIC HOLIDAY TREE (ADULTS)


Saturday, November 9th

10:30am – 12:30pm


As the holidays draw near, we must prepare to decorate and celebrate! Step by step, we will teach you to transform clay into a festive holiday tree.


PURCHASE TICKETS 




CLICK ON THE IMAGES BELOW TO REGISTER

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Old Town Artisan Studios is dedicated to providing individuals of all backgrounds and abilities with the opportunity to experience art and self-expression. Through the support of donors, volunteers, students, gallery artists, and friends, we bring art to those who need it most and address the ongoing need for art education across the Coachella Valley. Our Mobile Mission, supported by generous donations, grants, and partnerships, allows us to deliver instructor-led art programs at little to no cost through our fully equipped Mobile Art Vans. These vans travel to communities such as Mecca, all the way to Desert Hot Springs, ensuring that art experiences reach every corner of our community.

RECURRING OUTREACH PROGRAMS


Below is a list of our current outreach partners for whom we provide ongoing art classes.

Alzheimer's Association of CV

AngelView

Amelia Earhart Elementary (YMCA)

Autism Society Inland Empire

Boys and Girls Club Palm Springs

Boys and Girls Clubs CV (Indio, Coachella, La Quinta, Mecca)

City of La Quinta

Desert Arc

FIND Food Bank

Gerald Ford Elementary (YMCA)

Hope Through Housing



James Carter Elementary (YMCA)

James Monroe Elementary (ELOP)

John Adams Elementary School (YMCA)

John F. Kennedy Elementary (ELOP)

LQHS Special Needs Groups

Richard Oliphant Elementary (ELOP)

Reagan Elementary (ELOP & YMCA)

Roosevelt Elementary (ELOP)

OTAS Pottery Friends (special needs)

Van Buren Elementary (ELOP)

Variety - the Children's Charity of the Desert



OTAS PROVIDES ART2GO KITS TO LOCAL COMMUNITY


Our volunteers have been assembling Art2Go kits for several valued community partners, including Variety - The Children's Charity of the Desert, the Betty Ford Center Children's Pavilion, Desert Sands Unified School District, and the City of La Quinta for their annual tree lighting on December 6th. These kits allow us to extend our outreach, making it easier for children to enjoy creative activities from home—especially helpful for families during the busy holiday season. Each kit also includes an invitation to join us for Gingerbread Lane!

FORD ELEMENTARY VISITS FOR A FUN FALL FIELD TRIP


Last month, we had the pleasure of welcoming Mrs. Caronna's first-grade class to our campus for a festive fall field trip! The students enjoyed a guided tour of our campus and a hands-on pottery painting activity, decorating ceramic pumpkins just in time for Halloween. The kids had a fantastic time, and we were thrilled to share this creative experience with them!

ART EXPERIENCES


We are proud to share the results of our combined efforts to bring art experiences

throughout the Coachella Valley.

Total Experiences: 2023

25,721

YTD Experiences: 2024

18,856



SPOTLIGHT ON OTAS BOARD PRESIDENT


BETTY SAIDEL

Betty Saidel, our esteemed Board President at Old Town Artisan Studios (OTAS), embodies dedication, vision, and a heart for service. Her journey with us began in 2010 as a student, and over the years, her commitment grew as she took on roles as board member, Secretary, Secretary/Treasurer, and today, Board President. With a background as the retired owner of Integral Insurance and Financial Services and co-owner of Logic Packaging, Inc., Betty brings invaluable business acumen and a steadfast dedication to every endeavor.

Betty’s philanthropic spirit has a rich history, having supported organizations such as Free Arts for Abused Children, AIDS Project LA, and City of Hope. Her personal dedication to making a difference extends to OTAS, where she has volunteered as a fused glass artist, offering private workshops to raise funds for our outreach arts programs. As President, Betty is constantly pursuing new partnerships to broaden our impact, collaborating with groups like the Desert Cancer Foundation to reach those who will benefit most from our art programs.


Under Betty’s leadership, OTAS has thrived, achieving milestones that push our mission forward. Her ability to carry the vision of our founder, Victory Grund, and drive it to new heights has helped us secure our third mobile art van, extending our reach throughout the Coachella Valley.

“When I was asked to become President by Richard and Victory Grund, I was truly honored,” says Betty. “Being involved with Old Town Artisan Studios has been an incredible journey, full of wonderful moments, invaluable lessons, and rewarding challenges. Meeting so many kind and generous individuals and expanding our mission’s footprint has been a fulfilling accomplishment.”



Through her tireless work, Betty has helped OTAS evolve from a “best-kept secret” to a well-known artistic haven in our community. Her speaking engagements have introduced countless others to our cause, sparking enthusiasm and building a network of supporters who share her passion. Betty’s impact is felt daily, and we are deeply grateful for her dedication to our mission and community.


We thank Betty Saidel for her dedication, vision, and warmth. Her work as Board President continues to inspire us, and her legacy at OTAS will be felt for years to come.

"ART HEALS" - EISENHOWER HOSPITAL FEATURES OTAS IN FALL MAGAZINE


We're excited to share that Betty is featured in Eisenhower's 24/7 Connections Magazine! In her article, she discusses the transformative healing power of art and how OTAS is evolving into a vibrant hub for the community, nurturing self-expression and well-being. Don’t miss the chance to explore this inspiring piece—check out the article!


CLICK HERE

LA QUINTA STATE OF THE CITY


In case you missed it! Old Town Artisan Studios proudly received the Mayor's Award at the La Quinta State of the City on September 19. We extend our deepest gratitude to Mayor Linda Evans and the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce for this honor, recognizing our commitment to uplifting the Coachella Valley through art. A special thanks to Marge Dodge for sharing this news in the Desert Sun! Together, we are making a meaningful difference.


READ HERE



5 FUN THINGS TO DO IN LA QUINTA FOR ALL AGES AND INTERESTS


Thank you to Palm Springs Life for featuring OTAS as a fun place to unleash your creativity! Whether you attend a class, private lesson, workshop, or an event, Old Town Artisan Studios has something for everyone!


READ HERE

The Leland Gallery at Old Town Artisan Studios (OTAS) presents numerous art shows throughout the year, featuring OTAS students, instructors, and local artists! Proceeds from gallery purchases help to support the OTAS outreach arts program, providing positive art experiences to underserved groups throughout the valley.

DOWNLOAD 2024-2025 GALLERY SCHEDULE

ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL ARTISTS!


Applications are open for Aspiring Artists 2025. This program equips teenage artists with the knowledge and tools to pursue further education and careers in the fine arts. We are also grateful for the support and collaboration with our community partners: Art on Main Street, La Quinta Art Celebration, and Artists Council at the Galen Center. These partnerships enrich the program and provide students with unique opportunities to engage with the broader arts community. Sponsored by the City of La Quinta.


DEADLINE TO SUBMIT

Friday, December 6th, 2024


ACCEPTANCE NOTIFICATION

Friday, January 3rd, 2025


CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE


DESERT MIRAGE COMMUNITY ART SHOW


"Desert Mirage" explores the captivating beauty and diverse ecosystems of the desert landscape. This exhibit celebrates the stunning contrasts found in arid environments, from majestic mountains and sweeping sand dunes to resilient cacti and vibrant flora, as well as the fascinating wildlife that inhabits these regions.


ARTIST CALL

Artists can draw inspiration from the unique colors, textures, and forms that define the desert. To apply, please complete and return this form.

Be sure to tag us in your pottery painting creations!

@oldtownartisanstudios

Discover holiday gifts at our retail shop, featuring handmade treasures crafted by our talented artists and instructors! From cozy scarves and sparkling jewelry, to one-of-a-kind pottery, unique glass art, festive greeting cards, and more... you’ll find gifts that bring warmth and creativity to the season. Every purchase helps support the mission of Old Town Artisan Studios

header classes workshops

PRIVATE EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS


Whether you have an upcoming group outing, corporate retreat, birthday party, or special occasion...

Old Town Artisan Studios is the perfect place to make memories!

MORE INFO

THE BOARD ROOM


Enjoy our coffee and tea bar, curl up on the couch with an art magazine, and meet with friends! It's the perfect place to mingle after class or reserve for your group (book club, anyone?!) If your organization needs a place to meet, The Library is free to community members with approval and reservation.

INQUIRE

WE LOVE OUR VOLUNTEERS! WANT TO HELP? 


Volunteering with Old Town Artisan Studios means you get to help make art accessible for all people throughout the Coachella Valley! We need your help in a variety of capacities such as community events, outreach classes, fundraisers, Art2Go kits, classroom aides, and more! You do not have to be an artist!

We are looking for people-loving, art-appreciating folks that want to help make an impact (yes, you!)


HOW TO VOLUNTEER


STEP 1: Fill out a volunteer application HERE if you haven't done so already.


STEP 2: Sign up for any of the opportunities on our VOLUNTEER PAGE and check back for future ones that are continuously being added. Emails are sent monthly with new opportunities. (FALL OPPORTUNITIES WILL BE POSTED SOON!)


STEP 3: Attend our next Volunteer Orientation and Campus Tour. Existing and prospective volunteers are welcome!


NEXT ORIENTATION

Tuesday, November 12th from 10:30am - 11:30am

RSVP HERE
OUR MISSION

Old Town Artisan Studios is committed to providing positive art experiences for all people despite age, ability or financial condition. We believe art is healing. Art has an everlasting and positive impact on each of us and the world around us.

 

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides an inviting place for people of all ages to reveal their creativity through clay, fused glass, painting, drawing and other forms of art. We offer private instruction; classes for children, adults and seniors; and independent studio use as well as fee-exempt instruction for numerous charities serving underserved individuals in our valley. Through charitable donations from the cities of the Coachella Valley, various foundations, corporations and our incredibly generous donors, we continue to fulfill our vision –

Shaping Hearts & Minds through Art.

SPONSOR A STUDENT

For $150, you can sponsor a child's 4-week course here at

Old Town Artisan Studios. Funding will be awarded to children who meet eligibility requirements specified by OTAS.


To sponsor or make a general donation, please click the button below.

Thank you for your support!

DONATE

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

Facebook  Instagram  YouTube  LinkedIn
VISIT WEBSITE

HOURS

Monday - Saturday

10:00am - 5:00pm