This studio and gallery sticks to a dual aim: to teach the fundamentals of painting and drawing to newcomers, and to distribute the work of 2-D contemporary art experts. The sizable studio showcases finished art for sale (primarily paintings) in the front windows and acts as home to on-view easels and works in progress.

August House owner and artist Marya Veeck has run the studio since 1987 and serves as the sole teacher for adult classes, which range from beginning to painting to Design Your Own Dinnerware. Her initial idea still thrives: to bring a European sensibility to Chicago, encouraging the "everydayness" of art in the streets, galleries dispersed throughout neighborhoods and a warmly inclusive artistic community.

Kids' classes run along a more diverse spectrum than one might expect. Classes focus on both classical and contemporary artists from around the world, along with ones that incorporate stories, music and movement into lessons about drawing, painting and sculpting.

Be sure to call before heading to the studio; it's often closed if there are no classes or in between shows, but opening receptions occur regularly.

Centerstage Reviewer: Heather Blaha