Make Art
without Pressure
A creative studio in East Nashville where curiosity leads, process matters, and everyone is welcome to explore—no experience required.
The Open Art Lab is a community art studio offering thoughtfully designed art classes for both adults and children. Our approach is grounded in observation, experimentation, and learning through the creative process—not performance or perfection.
Classes are guided but flexible, skill-supported but low-pressure, and designed to help students build confidence while staying curious.
What is The Open Art Lab?
Classes for Every Stage
Children’s Classes
Creative classes for ages 6–10 that focus on observation, hands-on making, and creative
confidence—without pressure to perform.
Simple guidance with lots of room to explore
Making, experimenting, and trying out new things
Confidence over correctness
Adult Classes
Ongoing series and seasonal workshops in watercolor, drawing, mixed media, and themed explorations. Open to all experience levels.
Learn the basics, then make it yours
Work alongside others at your own pace
No pressure, no “right” result
How our Classes Work
Art is taught here through a process-based approach supported by strong foundations. Instead of rushing toward polished results, classes are designed to help students slow down, observe carefully, and learn through doing.
There’s no comparison, no competition, and no single “right” way to make art. Individual pace, curiosity, and exploration
are always respected.
What Makes This Different?
Process over Product
The focus is on how art is made—not just what it looks like at the end.
Thoughtful Structure
Clear guidance, demonstrations, and foundational skills without rigid rules or pressure.
Room to Explore
Different styles, approaches, and outcomes are always welcome.
Loved by Makers,
Big and Small
Seriously! But don’t take our word for it, here are some things people have to say about us.
I absolutely love taking watercolor classes with So Yeon. Class is low stress and fun, she's an amazing hype girl as you learn and pick up new skills. I feel like I've learned a lot and my technique keeps getting better.
— Krista T., Student
“
So Yeon creates so much more than a painting class. She creates an experience. From the thoughtful details of each project to the welcoming, cozy environment she curates, every class feels intentional and special. You can feel how deeply she loves painting and how much joy it brings her, and that joy is contagious.
Her classes are a truly nonjudgmental space where you can slow down, be still, and rediscover the joy of creating something with your own hands. She is incredibly talented and teaches real technique and skill, but what makes her classes stand out is her kindness, patience, and the way she helps each person feel capable and inspired.
I have taken her classes myself and have brought my children, and they absolutely love her. We are so excited to see her new space grow and to watch others experience the same joy she so generously shares.
— Paige R., Student & Parent
“
I have taken both the water color class and figure drawing class from So Yeon. My favorite was the water color classes because I loved learning new techniques and the freedom that comes with painting. You can tell that So Yeon puts a lot of effort and heart into creating each exercise and painting. She is knowledgeable, encouraging, and provides a great space to explore a new craft.
— Katelyn J., Student
“
Taking So Yeon's watercolor class has been a joy. I've learned techniques I never would have tried on my own, and the people who come to her classes are always so kind, friendly, and encouraging. So Yeon creates a space where you can experiment, grow, and genuinely enjoy the process of painting.
— Sarang M., Student
“
I’ve struggled to find a way to find stillness and reflect at the end of the day. Taking watercolor classes finally gave me the practice to do so. The technical skills of holdinga paintbrush, mixing colors, and understanding color theory have never come easily to me, but So Yeon helped me see that the struggle itself has value.
I’ve learned to love the exploration, and now watercolor is how I create space to unwind and reflect at home.
— Michelle, Student
“
Meet So Yeon Kim
Founder of The Open Art Lab and Fine Line Cosmetics & Tattoos,
So Yeon brings professional fine art training, years of teaching experience, and a deep love of process-based learning into every class.
Her teaching blends structure with openness, offering guidance without pressure and space without chaos.
❊ FAQs
You’ve got questions,
we’ve got answers
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Nope! All experience levels are welcome. Classes are designed to guide you without pressure, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been creating for years.
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Materials are provided unless otherwise specified. Be sure to check the class details for any special supplies you might need. Just bring curiosity and a willingness to try!
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Classes vary depending on type—children’s sessions usually last about an hour and fifteen minutes, adult workshops 1.5–2 hours. Exact times are listed on the class page.
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We recommend registering in advance since class sizes are limited. If a spot is available, we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
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Absolutely. Classes are thoughtfully structured with age-appropriate materials and supervision. While we encourage exploration, these are not clinical or therapeutic programs.
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Policies vary by class type. Details are included during registration and in our Policies & Waivers page.
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Yes! We have separate forms for private instruction and corporate workshops—click the buttons below to submit a request:
This is your sign to make art.
You don’t need to be “good at art” to be here. You just need curiosity and a willingness to try.
Take a look at what’s coming up and join us!
