Chester County Art Association invites you to dive into your personal projects and bring your artistic vision to life in our welcoming, self-guided Open Studio sessions. With access to dedicated spaces for ceramics, sculpture, drawing, and photography, you’ll have the tools and environment you need to explore your craft at your own pace—no instructor necessary.

Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting your journey, our vibrant and supportive community is the perfect place to experiment, create, and let your imagination run wild. Don’t miss this inspiring opportunity to turn your artistic dreams into reality!

Ceramics Open Studio

The Chester County Art Association offers Ceramic Open Studio sessions, providing artists of all levels with the opportunity to work on personal projects in a supportive, self-guided environment. These sessions are monitored but do not include formal instruction, allowing participants the freedom to explore and create at their own pace.

2025 Fall Ceramic Open Studio Sessions:​
  • Tuesday's - 10 AM to 1 PM
  • Wednesday's - 6 PM to 9 PM
  • Saturday's - 1 PM to 4 PM
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To participate, registration is required for each session. You can register for individual sessions or purchase a bundle for recurring sessions on the same day.
**Please note that the studio offers a welcoming and creative environment for your projects. While participants are encouraged to bring their own tools and equipment, only clay purchased from CCAA is permitted for use in the studio.**

Open Sculpture and Figure Drawing with Model ​

Chester County Art Association invites you to join our creative community for an Open Studio: Life Model Session this fall Thursday's 9 AM to 12 PM!

Work alongside fellow artists in an uninstructed life drawing and painting session with a live model, running at the same time as our Open Studio Sculpture class. Both groups share the same model, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment where all mediums are welcome. Whether you’re here to refine your skills, experiment with new techniques, or simply enjoy the practice of creating, this open studio offers the perfect space to grow.
Bring your own materials, and take advantage of CCAA’s sculpture stands, easels, and drafting tables.

Meet our Open Sculpture Moderator, 
George McMonigle! 

George McMonigle is an accomplished sculptor and educator with a distinguished career spanning decades. A graduate of Temple University’s Tyler School of Fine Art (1970–1974), he further honed his skills at Fleisher Art Memorial, Philadelphia College of Art, Cornell University, and the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia.

As the former Director of Sculpture for the Franklin Mint, George has collaborated with artists worldwide to refine their craft. From 1990 to 1998, he served as a board member for the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, contributing to the advancement of fine art education.
A member of the National Sculpture Society (since 1989) and The Society of Animal Artists (since 1980), his work is celebrated globally, with pieces featured in prestigious public and private collections. His expertise and passion for teaching help students of all levels develop their skills and artistic confidence, ensuring a lasting impact on the next generation of sculptors.

Second Saturday Photography Gathering

Join CCAA member Gary Altoonian for a free monthly photography gathering on the second Saturday of each month from March through November (no meetings in July, August, or December). Photographers of all levels—and anyone interested in the art—are welcome to share and discuss their work in a relaxed, agenda-free setting.

Second Saturday's is currently on pause due to Summer Camp. Please check back for an update in late September! 

Registration is free but required. Questions? Contact Gary at [email protected].

Meet our Photography Moderator, Gary Altoonian!

Gary Altoonian, a self-taught photographer and U.S. Navy veteran, turned his passion into Altoonian Photography in 2013. His Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business offers headshots, portraits, events, architectural shots, and fine art photography—including his signature Groupless Groupshots®.

​Known for capturing stunning images anywhere—on land, in the air, or underwater—Gary’s award-winning work has been featured in CIO Magazine and the Wall Street Journal. His studio was named West Chester’s Best Portrait Studio in 2022, 2023, and 2024. 
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Please feel free to reach out to Gary with any comments or questions and feel encouraged to share this message with friends and colleagues.