*This review is for Sarah's weekly session at Eye Street Studios*…read more Like Mikkela, I've been fortunate enough to have had the chance to attend one of Sarah's open studio figure drawing classes. Just not as an artist. From the other end. As a model. A nude model, to be precise. It was something I was contemplating on doing for a while, for a variety of reasons. At the recommendation of Mikkela, I called Sarah a while ago to see if she needed anyone extra to model for her. A week later, I got the fateful call: the regularly-scheduled model couldn't make it that night, and was I available? My chest started to get a little tight as I realized this was precisely where the rubber hit the road. There's no turning back now. The Art world needs me. I was Lloyd Bridges as Izzy Mandelbaum in Seinfeld: It's Go Time! I've always held a certain appreciation for artists, not least of all due to the fact that I could probably screw up drawing stick figures if I applied myself and put the time and effort into it. For me to be able to see people with actual artistic talent that I can only dream about was a real mind rush. I was really impressed by the talent level. I truly wish I had one iota of talent the artists possessed that night. People come prepared to draw whatever strikes their fancy, using a variety of methods. Some painted full body portraits. Others focused on certain body parts. Some used acrylics, others sketched in charcoal. Sarah, to my surprise, drew a head portrait. She was able to recreate the exact same type of poise and demeanor that I literally dream about. I kid you not, I was almost tempted to ask her to paint a blue tunic, medals, saber, and diagonal red sash, as the exact visage she captured belonged out of a Napoleonic cavalry portrait. Watching everyone's progress was amazing: after each 20 minute pose, I put on a robe and took a 10 minute break, and I had the chance to check out everyone's work. To be able to see everyone's work go from start to fruition was simply amazing. The atmosphere was really chill and laid back. Like Mikkela says, the noise level can be loud, but the band in the room next door was quite talented, and it definitely helped me focus. A word on modeling: there's actual work involved. You can't just sit on a stool and daydream for several hours. There's a lot of endurance, patience and mind over matter required. It's not for everyone, and it really takes a modicum of professionalism. I can honestly say I was sore afterwards, but I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. Sarah and her fellow artists are total professionals and really made me feel at ease. The verdict: $10 for open studio figure drawing at her Eye Street location lets you practice art in a chill setting with like-minded professionals. For such a small investment, you really can't beat the experience!

Open Studio - Figure Drawing (Long Pose)... what overwhelming joy! Finally, a place to gather with…read morelike minded souls (on the Metro) and spend three hours painting or drawing from a live nude figure. The artist who arranges this, Sarah, is really nice, and she also teaches art, if you wish for instruction. For my liking, for $10, I enjoy a chance to paint the figure! The open figure sessions are at the Eye Street Studios, 443 Eye St. NW, near Gallery Place/Chinatown. It's a really relaxed atmosphere. A band practices in the next space (so free concert), and there are all levels of art and interests. Different people show up every time, although some of us are showing up every time! Next time is May 7th. So if you want to re-awaken the artist and practice your figure drawing or painting, this is the place! Be prepared that the noise/music is loud (although the band is good).

There is a nice selection here. However, they do discriminate against people who do not follow…read moretheir opinions. It's sad when a good business would rather shun away its customers because they don't have the same opinion.

I'm not sure how I haven't written this review yet, so my deepest apologies to all of the wonderful…read morewomen of NOLA Craft Culture. This is by far a glitter and craft lovers' paradise. I went there for the first time shortly after their first Mardi Gras, and have returned several times since. I also love having their kits shipped directly to my door. Krewes, Indians, and just regular old people like me love this store and all it has to offer. Glitters, glues, trims, feathers, spectacular examples of the different handmade throws, an ample work space, and some of the most creative minds in the business to help you in anyway you need. Even when you're shopping from afar, they are still a great help, and if you put a note in on your order (like, don't ship before this date) they actually pay attention and you'll get what you need exactly when you want it. It's not a hobby; it's a way of life.

I've tried three of their throwing classes and thought it was really affordable with their BIPOC…read morefellowship prices. Though the studio is old, each class provides EVERYTHING you need to practice on the wheel - clay, tools, aprons, etc. You have to pay extra per piece you want to fire and we didn't get free reign with glazes and trimming (the instructors do it for you). But I didn't mind for the price, and it makes it easier for those who take the class to spend it entirely on honing in the art of throwing. Overall a great start for beginners who have always wanted to try ceramics! They really create a safe space for you to mess up and learn. Taught by experienced instructors, Byrdie's has reasonable membership prices as well!

You are reading this here first: Byrdies makes the best sandwich I've ever had. What's more? It's…read morealso the cheapest sandwich in New Orleans! The value is incredible (ie, I don't mean shitty American "cheese" and limp iceberg lettuce-cheap. I deserve better than that. *You* deserve better than that). Those tomatoes on there are probably heirloom and for greens, we're talking arugula. The specialty veg sandwich has an avocado spread that's out of this world divine delicious and the other day, I was introduced to the joys of buttermilk cheese sprinkled on top. They make their own *bread* for god's sake... If you don't like red onions or red pepper, Chris will gladly substitute you with something else. And whatever the ingredient, there's just the right amount of everything perfectly combined to make a sandwich into an edible piece of art. OK, so the price for this incredible sandwich that I still can't stop thinking about and have had to have twice in less than a week when I normally don't eat lunch out? FIVE FUCKING DOLLARS! Make that four with the Yelp Check-In offer. I shit you not. And yes, I'm cursing up a motherfuckingstorm because I feel like I've discovered something not many people know about (with the exception of Yelptern, Emily A, who introduced me to the joys of Byrdie's sandwiches just recently). And just so you know I mean business. I consider this place to be really off the grid when it comes to food. For the love of a good sandwich, stop in immediately and do yourself a favor with one of these incredible concoctions. See a fantastic art installation that a righteous feline might be guarding along the way... One other thing: I haven't tried it yet, but you should probably also know there's a homemade lavender bread with homemade strawberry jam, along with other pastries made in-house. These folks aren't fucking around.

I hate the fact that they follow you around as if we were planning on stealing. I really don't like…read morethat, and if my daughter really didn't want that item today, I wasn't going to purchase anything. I will not be purchasing anything else from them because of this.

It was a surprising find inside of a pet store which added to its charm the selection wasn't bad an…read moreI ended up with a beautiful set of metallic watercolors

The London Clayworks offers guided group pottery classes, taught by ceramic artist/owner Karin…read moreBurt, at four day/time offerings. In addition, the studio may be used by potters in what is called Open Studio. The third option is use of the pottery studio facility by the hour. I have taken pottery through the years at various locations and from a variety of teaching potters, but none can match the teaching skills of Karin Burt. In just two class sessions, I learned the reasons behind pottery techniques that I had not known before. All I can say is Karin is an exceptional, patient and talented educator. Karin is an artist in her own right, whose distinctive pottery pieces can be seen in the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) Gift Shop (in historic City Park) the gift shop of NOCCA (New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts) Gallery and the Press Street Cafe (both located in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans.

My girlfriend and I had an awesome Valentine's date night here. Our instructor was very nice and…read morepatient with us with it being our first time. We definitely will visit again soon .

What the what is this treasure of a place?!?! Former candy shop has become a hide out for…read morecreatives. Miniaturist has her working studio in the back and in the front many of her creations are on display and for sale! Lot's of other goodies like books, cards and sweets also available. L Delaney also hosts crafting classes and I can't wait to sign up for her next one. I look forward to seeing how she continues to shift the space. I definitely encourage everyone to stop in and take a little peek around.

From the owner: Welcome to New Orleans's whimsical whatnot shop, specializing in art, curios, & gifts by…read moreday...events and workshops by night. Home to New Orlean's mysterious miniaturist and her secret Museum of Curious-itinies...

It was very hard to miss the lime green building! There is…read moreplenty of parking available. I was super excited to make a tumbler tonight! The class was $35. This included all supplies except a tumbler. I brought my own tumbler from home. They also have tumblers for purchase. The owners are very helpful and knowledgeable of each project. The Makery also sells tie dye outfits, hair bows, key chains, face glitter and earrings. They also have their own line of glitter and it's spectacular. This is a great place to work on your own craft projects or you can choose one of the shop's many projects to make. They host kid's birthday parties, ladies' nights out and bridal showers. I highly recommend this place for all of your crafting.

Friendly staff and limitless variety of crafts! Great place to have a kids party or a ladies night!read more

I absolutely had an awesome time painting. Went for a bachelorette party and they were so helpful…read moreand very knowledgeable about painting techniques.

Had a great time painting, eating and socializing with my girlfriend, her family and friends…read more celebrating her birthday. The teacher was took care in fixing all of our paintings if needed. Mine needed it and I love the painting I created. The energy in the room was upbeat and lively. I would recommend you checking this out for your next friendly get together. Loved the atmosphere, loved the socialization. Check the schedule there are open days, group times and even times set aside for children. The teacher is easy to work with.

I had the pleasure of hosting my daughters paint theme party at this studio and the process was…read moreeasy. I was able to book online with a deposit, pick a portrait for guest, setup earlier, and have a dedicated artist for the majority of the party. Plus the cleanup was done by the business. I would definitely recommend this business for your kids painting party needs.

From the owner: The most fun you've had at a B.Y.O.B paint and sip yet! Call today to book a class or schedule your…read morenext event with your friends.