4Cats Art Studio returns to its roots with a studio in Oak Bay.
The original 4Cats studio opened in 2005 near the intersection of Bowker Avenue and Cadboro Bay Road, says Katrina Khan, western corporate leader.
Back then, Sam Jensson, product key leader, was among the students in those early classes of the now-international company.
“Now she gets to teach the classes,” says Frances McDonald, studio director.
“We’re really excited to be back at our foundation … We’ve always wanted to come back ago Oak Bay. We’re excited to be back where it all started.”
The return makes for three in Greater Victoria, joining those in Langford and Saanich.
“It’s a beautiful neighbourhood,” says Khan.
“And a beautiful location, right on the Avenue,” adds Jensson.
With early signage showing the advent of a 4Cats space on the busy street, passersby have offered encouragement. Overheard conversations in adjacent coffee shops reinforce for the trio of studio staff that residents are excited about the business that officially opened Feb. 12.
“We are an arts studio for adults and kids,” said Khan. 4Cats Art studios offer art classes, art history, art parties, art supplies and party planning for children and adults.
“People come in and the first thing they say is ‘I’m not an artist’,” says McDonald.
“Everyone is an artist and we want to help with that.”
“We’re there to break down the process,” adds Khan.
They’ve all worked in other studios or facets of the 4Cats business and have seen three-year-old birthday parties, to bachelorette parties, to great grandmother parties where granny takes home artwork created by the grandkids.
“It spans all ages and abilities,” Khan says.
The newest 4Cats is located at 2201 Oak Bay Ave.
Learn more about what they offer at 4cats.com/oakbay online.
