PHS Grad Seeking Donations to Start Youth Art Studio

With art getting less and less attention at school, aspiring artists have to increasingly rely on their own resources, buying paint, canvases and other supplies and seeking out instruction and encouragement by taking private classes.

Now one young man wants to create a formal space for young artists by opening an art studio inside the Phoenix Theater on East Washington.

“We want to create a sense of community for kids who have been doing art for a while and give them a chance to work with other people who are excited about art,” says Nick Paine, a 21 year-old artist and Petaluma High School grad.

Paine, and his friend and fellow artist Max May, are asking local businesses for donations of paint, brushes, easels, canvases and other related supplies. Donations can be dropped off at the Phoenix or by calling Paine at 707-766-4978.

“My passion is about giving kids an outlet to do art and that’s what he hope to accomplish with this space,” he says.