The ArtWay Studio is a mixed media studio that provides a creative space to learn and appreciate art. At Artway Studio, they believe that art is a process rather than a finished product! They provide studio classes as well as a variety of workshops all aimed to support, uplift and encourage their students. We spoke with Denna Erickson and Sonya Iwasiuk owners of Artway Studio to learn more about them.
What is your business called and what does it do?
At The ArtWay Studio, we teach mixed media art classes to adults, as well as workshops. We work to transform people’s lives through the beauty of creating art
What made you want to do this work?
I have been a high school teacher and artist for many years, and decided to open my own business in 2010, I wanted to have more freedom to be a mom to my son, and also paint and teach. I have always been an artist and a teacher, from a young age I made things, and felt the need to teach. I didn’t choose this profession, it chose me.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I have always had the goal to help people. The creative process is very freeing and I knew I could enhance people’s lives by teaching art.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
We teach middle-aged women for the most part
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We make money from our classes, workshops and selling artwork. I teach an encaustic workshop, where students learn about bee’s wax and how to print and paint with it. Anyone can take this and get great results.
Where in Vancouver can we find your profession?
The Artway Studio is located at 1000 Parker street studio 208 in Vancouver, BC.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Will I learn to paint? Our students truly create beautiful and original art. Most clients ask me if they will complete a finished piece of art. I tell them yes, as we take you through the creative process, and the student practices the techniques taught, they will come out with a truly creative piece of art. When a student struggles, we always tell them it is about the journey and not the end result, and that the piece goes through many different stages until the end of the journey. We encourage trust in the process of creating.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best is changing peoples’ lives through art, the worse is the unpredictable nature of our business. Covid has been a really difficult time for us for example.
What are your social media channels?
You can find The Artway Studio on the following social media channels:
Website | Facebook | Instagram
