Artista, Sarasota

Every six months, Artista’s doors swing open to the public for an evening of performances, in which the art academy’s instructors showcase their students’ progress via dance recitals, art exhibits, and theatrical performances. This semiannual open house reflects the academy’s mission to foster a vibrant, supportive community of artists.

Most of Artista’s classes cater to young learners: tumbling classes teach the fundamentals of gymnastics, for instance, and an acting class helps teens perfect basic acting skills, such as how to ace auditions or cry on command to avoid doing the dishes. There are courses designed to enrich adults, too, such as fitness sessions and BYOB painting classes. Regardless of the subject, instructors keep classes small to ensure individual attention and can tailor their lessons to suit students of all levels.