There is another great reason to head down to Warren these days as the Warren Art Spot is officially open. Right in the heart of downtown Warren, the Art Spot promises to be the place in Warren for kids to take art classes, participate in crafty workshops and have their birthday parties.

Jim and Julia Bush bought the building at the corner of Child and Main that houses the Warren Art Spot about 5 years ago. They were looking for a studio space for Jim to cartoon, draw and paint. With much TLC, Jim completed his Studio/Gallery (www.jimbushart.com) on the second floor four years ago, around the same time that the MUSE Jewelry Boutique moved into the commercial rental space on the first floor. Behind MUSE, however, there remained one very dark, vacant apartment.  In January, Julia and Jim had an “AHA!” moment. With Julia’s background in non-profit management and Jim’s artistic skills and connections, they figured turning the apartment into a studio space for kids to do art would be a good move. After rezoning, gutting and finally renovating the space, they are now ready to go.

At the Warren Walkabout this past Sunday, dozens of kids and their families stopped by to see the unveiling of the new business and meet the teachers. With plenty of natural light, and a colorful checkerboard floor, the room will produce an abundance of creative fun. Many were thrilled to find out what all the construction was about and are anxious for classes to begin.

Jim and Julia are firm believers in Warren. They chose the community because it has many working artists and the Town had created a tax free “arts district.” They are excited to add one more layer to the community and feel that the Warren Art Spot will help meet the artistic and creative needs of the local kids. Starting in November, the following classes will be offered: Cartooning for Kids with Jim Bush, Crafty Kids Take on Textiles! with Hilary Treadwell, and Going Green! Paper Making and Book Making Workshop with Lauren Enjeti.

To register now and learn more visit www.warrenartspot.com.