SLOW RIVER STUDIO

Wonderful art studio for anyone of all levels to start as a beginner, renew previous art experiences or add to current art knowledge. The instructors are experts in their abilities to teach watercolor, acrylic and oil painting, pastels, collage, abstract and more!

I love Slow River so much! It’s such a wonderful environment for banishing anxiety and pressure and just letting your creativity flow!

Slow River Studio has been a top find for me since moving to the North Shore. I've done a number of classes and a couple of workshops there and I look forward to doing more in the future. Most of my classes have been with Kerrie James. She's a gem! And, I feel her instruction has really helped me to progress as an artist. I really appreciate that Slow River offers weekend classes for those of us that work full-time.

Recommendation for Slow River Studio I recently returned from an oil painting retreat on Monhegan Island, Maine, hosted by Slow River Studio, and it was nothing short of transformative. From start to finish, the retreat was thoughtfully organized, blending professional instruction with the natural beauty of Monhegan. The island itself—rugged cliffs, dramatic skies, and light that seems to glow from within—offered endless inspiration. But what made the experience truly special was the way Slow River Studio created a supportive, welcoming environment that encouraged both exploration and growth. The instructors were not only deeply knowledgeable about painting but also incredibly generous with their time and guidance. Whether you were a seasoned painter or just beginning your journey with oils, they met you exactly where you were and helped you push further. Each day was a perfect balance of structured lessons, plein air painting sessions, and the freedom to follow your own creative instincts. Beyond the painting, the retreat fostered a sense of community. Sharing meals, conversations, and daily reflections with fellow artists became as enriching as the studio work itself. By the end, I left not only with a portfolio of new work and fresh techniques but also with friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’ve ever dreamed of immersing yourself in the magic of Monhegan while deepening your craft, I can’t recommend Slow River Studio highly enough. They deliver an experience that is equal parts artistry, inspiration, and soul.

Honestly could not be more obsessed with this studio. Apparently have been an artist all my life but it wasn’t until I started taking classes at Slow River where I was encouraged to own that title! I started with Creative Kickstart with Tony which I loved, and have done watercolor with Cara, collage with Jonti, and now acrylic with Cici, all in person. I can’t get enough so i’m most likely joining their Creative Current online school as well! Slow River appeared to me at a time when the world was feeling extra bleak and I was craving community, connection, and art in a welcoming, safe, supportive space. It has given me that and much more. I’m incredibly grateful to this space and recommend it to everyone, especially beginners! I had no formal artistic training and have felt so welcomed and supported. The other students and teachers provide a beautiful, nonjudgemental, amazing space. 10/10 recommend!