My New Favorite Art Store

Today is the day I'd been waiting for since the art day I had in Olivet in early November. One of the artists I met there planned to come over to my place and trade knowledge. She brought her Spellbinder Wizard and all her accessories to show me and I spent a little time at the computer giving her hints and tips using Photoshop.

We then headed to USArtQuest, which up to now may have been one of the best kept secrets of the Jackson area. I must say, it might have been easy to miss it. The sign out front is not very large and the drive is somewhat obscured by large, beautiful evergreens. What a lovely spot and such a gracious hostess/owner, Susan Pickering Rothamel. I knew as soon as she greeted us that I was at a very special place.

The facility is not only an art supply store, but there is so much more - they make their own paints right on the premises. They have a large, spacious, well-stocked classroom area where classes are offered throughout the year. I can't wait to take a class there. The entire building was decorated with a multitude of different styles of art using their products, as well as items from past classes. It was a wonderful afternoon.

And even better, Susan is having a grand redesign and opening of their retail showroom. There will be refreshments, demonstrations and prizes. All this is happening on Thursday, December 11, from 2 pm - 6 pm. I am so looking forward to it.

USArtQuest is located between Sargent Road and Race Road on Ann Arbor Road, 7800 Ann Arbor Road, to be exact.

While this is not the time of year to be spending on myself, I couldn't help it - I had to try some of her products. I have a feeling I will not be going back to gel medium any time soon. Here is a picture of the items I purchased. I will be spending my free time in the next few days/weeks trying out these products and will report back on what I think. I will also upload pix to show the results. I didn't buy the iPod there. That is just part of the clutter on my work table. *-)


Well, it is almost dinner time and then I am going to start working on some ATCs using these new supplies. I'll post an update tomorrow. Until then, don't forget to live in the moment.