Bringing Out the West Side’s Artsy Side

Cincinnati has a rep for being an art-loving town, but the West Side? Not so much.

Local artists Abby Langdon and Tara Heilman wanted to change that perception. So these two crafty Cincinnati moms created the Broadhope Art Collective in Cheviot for artists–painters, textile artists, jewelers, potters, mixed media artists and more–to make, teach and sell their work.

Broadhope opened its doors last fall, but in 2013, the place is really gaining steam. Great news for West Siders and all Cincinnatians who appreciate cool, independent “art for all” efforts.

For Cincinnati kids and their parents, these upcoming workshops offer some fun, unique opportunities to get creative–and learn some useful skills while you’re at it:

Key to My Heart Valentines Workshop
Saturday, February 2, 11am-1pm, $20
Create a unique mixed media valentine, learning textured painting and layering techniques, combining found objects, fabric and a message to give to the one you love.  For ages teenage to adult, all materials (including an easel for your finished piece) included.

Open Studio Night
Wednesday, February 6, 6-8pm, Free
What’s better than crafting and creating? Crafting and creating with friends, of course! Come to Broadhope the first Wednesday of every month for a casual evening of working on that project from home you’ve been meaning to finish.

You Lassoed My Heart Valentines Workshop
Saturday, February 9, 11am-1pm, $20
Create a unique mixed media valentine, learning textured painting and layering techniques, combining found objects, knot tying and a message for an unusual gift. For ages teenage to adult, all materials (including an easel for your finished piece) included.

Felt Hearts Workshop
Saturday, February 9, 3-4:30pm, $10
Hand sew, embellish and stuff these beautiful heart ornaments with Tara of Robot Inside. This workshop is appropriate for ages 8 to adult, and no previous experience with sewing is necessary.

Reversible Apron
Friday, February 22, 6-8pm, $35
Celebrate your inner 50s housewife with Tara of Robot Inside. Tara will be sharing her reversible apron design that mixes 3 fun patterns resulting in a chic frock perfect for cooking and entertaining. This class is recommended for those ages 12 to adult, previous sewing experience helpful but not necessary. All materials provided. Have color and pattern preferences? Let them know at registration.

Paint a State
Sunday, February 24, 1-3pm, $25
We’ve all fallen in love with Oberaw Industries’ metal cutouts of Ohio and Kentucky. Now come paint your own! Brittany and Justin will supply you with the state and the paint (specify your preferred state at registration) and guide you through their decorating and finishing process. This workshop is recommended for ages 8 (with adult assistance) through adult.

Monster Making Workshop
Sunday, February, 2-4pm, $20
Create your own monster with Abby of abbydid. This month we will be making the seldom-seen-most-unusual-one-eyed-pocket-mouthed cephalapod. Hitherto considered only to be legend, we have procured the pattern to this squid-like creature for your plush making enjoyment! This class is recommended for ages 12 to adult, 8 and up with a grown up’s assistance. Basic skills on a sewing machine will be used, previous experience is helpful but not necessary. All materials are provided and there is no additional charge for adults who stay to help participating children.

Broadhope artists also offer these private lessons on an ongoing basis:

Illustrate Your Own Skateboard

In this class woodworker Justin Ratliff will demonstrate his techniques for decorating wooden skateboard decks and assist students in making their own, unique boards. The board and decorating supplies are supplied, wheels are not included. Day and time will be scheduled with you after registration. 1 small group session, 2 hours, $50.

Sewing 101 
Always wanted to sew but don’t know where to begin? Have a sewing machine that’s been gathering dust? Textile artist Tara Heilman of Robot Inside will work with you in 3 1-hour private lessons, teaching you basic sewing skills. Bring your own sewing machine to learn on or use one of ours. Materials will be provided, and by the third session you will have one finished project. Days and times will be scheduled with you after registration. 3 private sessions, 1 hour each, $50

Jaime’s Art Pottery Classes 
Join Jaime Iliff to learn basic wheel throwing techniques. All materials are included in these private lessons, and you will create 4 completed pieces you can be proud of. Days and times will be scheduled with you after registration. 4 private sessions, 1 hour each, $120.

Also, don’t miss the next Open House at Broadhope Art Collective on Saturday, January 26, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. With Valentine’s Day approaching, you can find just the right gift for your sweetie. Mingle with the artists, enjoy refreshments, and sit down at the make-it-take-it table to create your own handmade valentine to warm that certain someone’s heart.

Broadhope Art Collective
Hours: Th-Fr 4-8, Sa 11-6, Su 11-3, weekdays open by chance
Telephone: 513-225-8441
Address: 3651 Harrison Avenue, Cheviot Ohio 45211

You can register for Broadhope workshops and private lessons online.