Francis Penavic, the owner of Ogden Art Studio, and previous graduate of the Chicago Art Institute…read moreis an amazing painting instructor. His ability to help others see components of a painting, the techniques used, brush strokes, color make up and styles are lessons that will stay with me. My fear of oil painting is finally over thanks to this remarkable teacher. Stephanie Girvin

Both of my children have been attending the art studio for two years now, and they absolutely love…read moreit! The teacher is fantastic, very patient and encouraging. He has a great way of bringing out the creativity in children and making art fun for them. My kids always look forward to their art classes and come home with big smiles on their faces, excited to show me their latest creations.

Bill and Rose are amazing!! Not only did Rose help me paint this beautiful picture without me…read morehaving any prior knowledge of oil paints, but when there, I lost my ring and they kept in contact with me to eventually help me find it. They even offered to look through the trash to find it, but thankfully they found it on the floor a bit later. So happy to have found my ring and so impressed with the quality of the class I took, along with the multiple other services they offer. Will be booking again!!

I stopped by yesterday as I was walking around the neighborhood checking out the Farmers Market. I…read morenoticed this shop that sold all things lavender! I had to make a stop. I bought one of their lavender orange jam which I plan to use when I make scones. I absolutely love seeing the collection of arts, skincare, and culinary lavender base products. I am certainly going to visit this place again. It was great speaking with the owners. They offer great advice on baking scones and were super friendly.

Practical and to the point! I asked the owner how to tell my oil paintings from my acrylics. He…read moretook a look at the samples I had and made a judgement -- that fit with my own guesses. He added, "If you're going to paint over these, you could just put on a coat of Gesso, and then either oil of acrylic paint can work. Try on your least favorite old canvas first." He also knew convenient places to get the Gesso.

I'd stopped in here a few years ago with a friend who admired the artist Bev Doolittle's…read morecomprehensive artwork. She'd found out that this particular gallery had some of her paintings on display and so, we stopped in for a visit. (I suggest you google her work. It's very unique and captivating) These days, I still pass by this gallery quite often, but haven't looked inside since that day many years ago. Today I had a little extra time on my hands so I decided to pull my truck into it's parking lot and step inside once again...never a bad idea since other people's artwork often inspires me when I'm creating my own. After getting buzzed in (which surprised me a little), I was greeted by a voice in the back asking if I needed help. Seems they also have a framing business and were quite busy putting a few together. I let them know I was just looking around and went about my self guided tour...at least, that's what I would have preferred. While perusing the artwork for a minute or two, a gentleman (who I assume was the owner) joined me in my stroll and after asking what I do for a living ( I HATE that), went on to tell me that he just had his whole house painted and that it doesn't pay to do it himself anymore. I'm sorry, but I didn't stop in here to hear about other people's life stories unless it's being told to me on canvas. So I give him polite one word answers and eventually, he gets the hint and leaves me alone. Just to make sure, I move to another part of the shop. But after looking around a while, I'd noticed that there really isn't much inside. A few cool colored etchings of buildings in Germany and they still carry some of Doolittle's works (one really cool canvas of native americans riding straight towards the viewer in full war paint called "Beyond Negotiations"), but not much else. To be honest, the place is a little unorganized and cluttered, but I can't say what it's cluttered WITH since there's really not a lot of artwork. If I was really in the market for some paintings, I'd probably be disappointed and not return. I guess that sums up my review, too. Leaving and not wanting to return kinda says it all, don't you think? I'm afraid two stars is all I can muster for Evergreen Gallery. Sorry about that, folks...I left uninspired.

I don't really write reviews much just when someone goes above and beyond. Brigitte the gallery…read moremanager was patient, kind and inventive. She was with me all the way with about 3-5 changes in my mind. I can't say enough good stuff about this gallery. Love this gallery! Love my art piece! I will be back (with a better idea of what I want)!

Trusted this gallery with some sensitive documents to frame and they stopped answering their…read morephones. It was supposed to be a wedding present for my husband but it is after our wedding and it is still not ready! No one will call me back and email address is non working. They seem nice but I think it's not worth the hassle!

This business is so cute! They mainly host classes (embroidery, center pieces, candle workshops,…read morehand knit blankets, cookie decorating) and birthday parties for young girls. Its such a cute and cozy place! They also have some jewelry and small home decor items for purchase. I took their embroidery class and really enjoyed it! I made a sweater with my son's name on it.

Arterie Fine Arts has been a wonderful gallery to show my work in. My work has been in several of…read moretheir art shows. Merike and JoAnne are true professionals who have gone over and beyond excellence in service and dedication to make showing artwork in their gallery successful and pleasant for artists. Their website showcases each show's art and they also put together these small booklets for each show that features and publishes the entire works from each show. I highly recommend doing business with this gallery.

From the owner: Arterie Fine Arts is a creative space which is a place where anyone can embark on their own…read morepersonal artistic journey. Merike Adams,artist & owner provides a space local artists can call their second home and global artists can find a showcase. Art connoisseurs can enjoy "art from the heart" and those who are on a learning path can afford to so freely. We offer several membership levels for studio/work/display space or display only space. Art classes for all ages, summer camps for kids & walk in classes are available. Monthly shows featuring international & local artists which include a reception for the show with refreshments, activities & contests for everyone. Monthly calls for artists to submit their artwork to be included in our shows.

Hands down, the best, most diverse group of artists I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. So many…read moreart forms are represented here...from painting to photography, ceramics and textile art. Even tattoo art is showcased by one of the best artists in the business! So if you're an artist looking to join a group of talented and supportive colleagues, or merely looking for a gallery show to attend once in a while...I highly recommend checking out this Guild. I promise, you won't regret it!

TAGOL is an impressive group of eclectic artists from Lockport and the surrounding area. The talent…read moreis amazing but the welcoming and accepting nature of the people involved is what draws you in and makes you come back for more. The gallery openings that have occurred at The Flower Of Life in Lockport have been a highlight for the community and graciously hosted by Acclaimed Artist Larry Brogan who has his attached Tattoo parlor right next door. Stay tuned, as the group will have another show coming up in the next few months. You won't want to miss it!

Loved the Growing Up Gen X exhibit! I didn't even know this branch of the Illinois museum existed…read moreuntil a post from the museum about the Gen X exhibit popped up on my Facebook feed the other day. I had missed this exhibit when it was in Springfield last year and was so happy to catch it closer to home. The entire exhibit was very well done and it was fun to show my teen things I had or used at her age. My fellow Gen X friend enjoyed it too. John was so knowledgeable about upcoming museum and town activities that I now have a list of things I want to attend in the near future. I saved the Facebook event to attend their upcoming Ferris Bueller movie showing event in a few weeks. I'm interesting in seeing the fine arts exhibit that will be replacing this one in a few weeks too.

Recently came here, what an amazing place to see a constant rotation of ever changing art every…read moremonth. There's no entry fee but donations are what keep this place going. Easy to park but it has limited hours, staff here is absolutely friendly and knowledgeable. It's very quiet and peaceful so nobody will really be bothered. If you're visiting the area too, it's great to get off at the metra stop nearby.