Studio One Art Center is the only arts studio publicly run by the City of Oakland Parks and Recreation department. Built in 1894, the original unreinforced masonry and wood structure was designed for use as an orphanage. It wasn't until 1948 that the site was considered for the location of a city-run arts program. The building is currently undergoing major seismic retrofitting, interior rehabilitation and exterior site work. Costing upwards of 10 million dollars to complete, this rehabilitation project is funded by Oakland's Measure DD for clean water and safe parks. The retrofitted building will re-open it's doors to the public in late Fall of 2007, and will offer classes in clay ceramics and sculpture, jewelry making, painting and drawing, photography, theater arts, and more. read more