Artopolis Studio 109

🎨 Artopolis Studio 109 — What We Are & What to Expect

I teach how I actually work: observation, adjustment, and knowing when to stop. I teach from lived practice, not performance.

This isn’t Bob Ross.
This isn’t sip‑and‑paint.
This isn’t crafting or copying.

Artopolis Studio 109 is our creative home — a place where real people come to make real art. I teach with a simple philosophy: a little structure, a little guidance, and a lot of freedom to explore. Our classes are hands‑on, approachable, and designed for anyone who wants to create without pressure or perfectionism.

Students learn how to see, how to experiment, and how to trust their own instincts.

Every session includes clear instruction, supportive feedback, and space to play. You’ll leave with a finished piece, new skills, and the confidence to keep creating at home — no stress, no judgment, just genuine discovery.

On Sunday afternoons from 1-3, Taverna Manos Restaurant hosts Art and Craft classes. Each class is $65 per person and includes most supplies. The sessions are hosted by Despina Manos, Art Instructor and Owner of Artopolis Studio 109. Private art/craft parties are available to clubs and organizations. Please call:

352-564-0078 to reserve your class seat. If there is no answer, leave a message with your name and phone number and I will call you asap to confirm your reservation.

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Here are some examples of past classes and examples of the private collection of pieces painted by Despina.

Artopolis Studio 109 — Monthly Sunday Schedule

(dates for March 2026– February 2027)

March 15, 2026 — Watercolor Florals

Soft layers, simple shapes, and gentle guidance. Perfect for beginners who want to loosen up and explore color without pressure.

April 12, 2026 — Neurographic Art: Slow Down, Soften, and Create

This is not therapy — it’s a guided creative process that uses intuitive lines, shapes, and rounded edges to help your mind settle and your focus return. We’ll explore how simple marks can shift your nervous system and open up surprising visual pathways. No art experience needed. Media Collage

May 10, 2026 — Acrylic Landscapes

Break landscapes into simple shapes and build them step by step. Leave with a finished canvas and a new way of seeing.

June 14, 2026 — Abstract Expression: Color & Movement

Gesture, emotion, and color relationships. No rules — guided exploration and discovery.

July 12, 2026 — Pen & Ink Botanicals

Line work, shading, and simple botanical forms. Calm, meditative, and grounding.

August 9, 2026 — Textured Acrylics & Palette Knife

Palette knives, gels, and texture mediums for bold, dimensional work. Tactile and satisfying.

September 13, 2026 — Watercolor Landscapes

Soft washes and atmosphere. Learn to simplify what you see and paint without overthinking.

October 11, 2026 — Mixed Media Pumpkins (Seasonal Favorite)

A modern fall project using collage, acrylics, and texture — artistic, not “crafty.”

November 8, 2026 — Acrylic Still Life: Everyday Objects

See shape, shadow, and color in simple objects. Supportive, structured, and confidence‑building.

December 13, 2026 — Holiday Mini‑Canvases

Create 2–3 small canvases with acrylics, metallics, and mixed media. Joyful and gift‑ready.

January 10, 2027 — Vision Board Collage

Start the year with intention. Artistic, expressive, and deeply personal — not the usual cut‑and‑paste craft.

February 14, 2027 — Abstract Hearts & Color Play

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I⭐ What Students Should Bring

To keep class relaxed and enjoyable, here are a few simple things that help everyone have a great experience:

• Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little paint on. (We love a glamorous outfit — just maybe not a white dress in a paint studio.)
• Bring or borrow an apron or cover‑up. We have extras, but your own is always best.
• Tie back long hair. It keeps you comfortable and keeps your painting clean.
• Avoid long, flowy sleeves or dangling jewelry. They tend to dip into paint at the worst possible moment.
• Phones away during painting time. It helps you stay focused and keeps your hands clean.

These small choices make the whole experience smoother, calmer, and more fun for everyone.

We provide all painting materials — just bring yourself and a willingness to try. –

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🌹❤️Despina