A Resource for Artists

by Benjamin Soderstrom

For those of you who are looking for new resources, I've recently discovered on right under my nose. It may or may not be new to you, so bear with me, and I will tell you of my experience with the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (KIA), a place dedicated to spreading art throughout our town at a bargain price. For all of you out there that wish to broaden your horizons in the numerous techniques of art, this is the place to do it. Their teachings range from magnificent bronze castings to simple drawing classes and everything in between! Unfortunately there is a bit of a downside to all it has to offer. In my opinion, the KIA is more geared toward those who are already somewhat versed in art. It's not that their classes are too advanced for people to grasp, but they aren't always as detailed as beginning students may require. For those I would recommend the Southwest Michigan Visual Arts Academy.

Altogether the KIA is quite an amazing resource for most people, and a darn cheap price. Most of the time it's quite easy to get a lot out of the classes.