FAQ

Not at all. Artaluma welcomes true beginners, returning artists, and experienced makers. You do not need to arrive knowing how to draw, paint, or use a particular material. Curiosity and a willingness to try are enough.

Yes. Elizabeth works with students from beginner through advanced levels and individualizes her guidance. You may share a table and a lesson with other students while receiving feedback, demonstrations, and next steps that respond to your own skills, questions, and goals.

You are in good company. Many students arrive feeling rusty or unsure. Artaluma is built around a positive, heart-centered community where experimentation is welcome, comparison is set aside, and frustration is understood as part of the creative process.

You do not need to bring art supplies unless the class listing specifically indicates otherwise. Artaluma supplies all art materials.

Artaluma supplies all art materials unless the class listing specifically indicates otherwise.

Yes, if you prefer, but you do not need to. Artaluma supplies all art materials unless indicated otherwise. Please label anything you bring, and avoid solvents or other hazardous materials unless the instructor has approved them in advance.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can handle a little paint, charcoal, clay, or joyful mess. An apron or work shirt is always useful.

Visit the Classes & Workshops page, choose your class, and use its registration button. Registration is complete when you receive a confirmation. If a class is full or a link is not working, email Elizabeth and she will help you find the best next step.

For listings marked 5-day cancellation — credit only, please request your cancellation at least five days before the class or series begins. Eligible cancellations are returned as Artaluma credit for a future offering rather than as a cash refund. Requests made within five days may not be eligible for credit because the studio has already reserved your place and prepared for the class.

Please tell Elizabeth as soon as you know. Because each series and project is different, make-up options are not guaranteed. She will let you know what is possible and help you stay connected to the work.

Yes, on a case-by-case basis. Please write to Elizabeth at elizabeth@artaluma.org and briefly describe your financial circumstances and your desire to be in the class. Artaluma wants cost to be less of a barrier whenever the studio is able to help.

Street parking is readily available near the studio and is free for two hours. For a longer visit, the public Keller Street Garage, on Keller Street between Western Avenue and Washington Street, is another convenient option. The lower level has free four-hour parking, with longer limits on higher levels. Please check posted signs when you arrive, since downtown limits can change.

The City of Petaluma’s Keller Street Garage includes ADA parking spaces and ramps. If proximity to the entrance matters for your visit, contact Elizabeth before class so she can share the most practical arrival plan for that day.

Artaluma wants you to be able to participate comfortably. Before registering, or as soon as a need comes up, email Elizabeth with any mobility, seating, sensory, communication, or other access needs. She can confirm the current entrance and studio setup, discuss reasonable adjustments, and help you decide whether the class environment will work well for you.

Plan to arrive about 10 minutes early for your first class. That gives you time to find parking, settle your supplies, and get oriented without feeling rushed. The studio is open by appointment and during scheduled classes rather than regular drop-in hours.

Unfortunately, no. The Artaluma studio is not available to rent.

You will need a reliable internet connection and a computer or tablet with speakers. A built-in or external camera and microphone are strongly recommended so you can ask questions, share your work, and feel part of the group. A phone can work in a pinch, but a larger screen is easier for seeing demonstrations.

Your confirmation email will name the video platform and include the joining link. Open the link before class day and install any requested app or browser update. If possible, test your camera, microphone, and speakers in advance.

Choose a stable work surface with good light and enough room for your materials. Position your device where you can see the demonstration without holding it. If you would like feedback on your work, arrange your camera so you can safely tilt or move it toward your page or canvas.

Artaluma supplies all art materials unless the online class listing specifically indicates otherwise. The listing or confirmation email will explain whether materials are mailed, picked up, or provided through another arrangement.

Keep your confirmation email handy and try the class link again from an updated browser or the platform app. If you are still stuck, email Elizabeth. Joining a few minutes early gives everyone the best chance to solve a technical hiccup before the lesson begins.