Paintastic Art Studio offering a wide range of creative classes for all ages and experience levels

WASILLA — Paintastic Art Studio owner and operator April Dunham is going on her sixth year running her studio out of Wasilla. She started small with a handful of paint night options, eventually growing her business into an eclectic, educational hub for all kinds of people looking for a creative hobby.

“I have given someone the tools to do it themselves,” Dunham said.

Dunham has been teaching various art classes out of her current location off the Parks Highway for nearly four years, moving from her previous location above All Seasons Clothing Company.

“It's very relaxing. It's one of my favorite places to be. So I'd say it's a pretty good atmosphere. Lots of laughter," Dunham said.

Dunham's passion project came about after her husband was laid off from the North Slope. She said she felt like it made sense with her background in art and education, feeling like it could be a helpful source of additional income.

The studio has humble beginnings, starting out Dunham’s garage with her first classes out of Hacidena’s. Paint nights eventually expanded to more options like pottery and other ceramics , glass blowing, and alcohol ink.

“I want to go beyond just painting,” Dunham said. “It’s my happy place. It just kind of evolved with what the community is interested in… In the middle of winter it really becomes a place to kill that cabin fever… Sometimes you have to just slow down and take a moment for yourself.”

Paintastic’s wide range of mediums reflects the owner’s eclectic and creatively driven mind.

“After a rough day this is what calms me. This is what calms my brain. I have a pretty busy brain. I love it. You've helped other people be successful... They end up having a wonderful time. They’re just empowering themselves,” Dunham said. "I think my favorite part of art is helping somebody else get that mojo. I just found a passion. I enjoy sharing it and giving people an outlet."

Like countless other small businesses, Paintastic has had a hard year. Class sizes have been reduced to accommodate for social distancing, and each month is a struggle to keep the doors open, according to Dunham.

“COVID has been killing me... It's definitely been challenging... Right now it's month to month to see if we'll survive,” Dunham said. "COVID’s killing us all.”

Dunham said that she posted on Facebook about her savings being wiped out due to the virus and her fears of having to close the studio. She said it was met with an outpouring of support, and she’s had a lot of support from the community since this all started.

“The community really rallied together and supported us,” Dunham said. “When we have new clients come in, it's pretty common that they tell their friends and come in again. I'm pretty blessed to be located where I am.”

According to Dunham, Paintastic offers 11 to 12 different classes a week, hosting a number of different clientele, from team building office parties to bridal showers and birthday bashes. Class costs range from $25 to $65. She encourages anyone and everyone with creative inclinations to try out a class.

“If you never try you'll never know. You'll never know how talented you could be or how much you really enjoy it,” Dunham said. “Very rarely do people leave with something they're displeased with. Most people really enjoy it."

Dunham also features locally crafted wares in a designated section of her studio, with an array of artistic creations to choose from.

Paintastic is holding a number of classes this weekend, offering classes like pottery, ornament making, fused glass and resin boards. For more information about classes, check their Facebook page, call 907-227-7115 or visit their website at paintasticak.com.

“We have a lot going on this weekend," Dunham said with a laugh. “It makes a great date night.”

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com