VIA Studio Open Workshops

Hi, I'm Melisah, the founder of VIA Studio.Creativity has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember. I'm a practising visual artist, an experienced art educator, and the founder of VIA Studio—a creative space built on the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, confidence and connection that making art can bring.I've spent over 20 years teaching Visual Arts, including more than a decade working in specialist education with autistic students and young people living with disability. Alongside teaching, I've continued to develop my own art practice, exhibiting my work and being selected as a finalist in several art prizes, including the Doug Moran Portrait Prize, the Newcastle Club Foundation Art Prize and the Maitland Art Prize.After years of teaching in schools, I realised there was something many adults were missing—a welcoming place to simply create. Somewhere without pressure, where people could learn new skills, slow down, meet others and rediscover the satisfaction of making something with their own hands. That's what inspired me to create VIA Studio Open Workshops.One of my favourite things about teaching is watching people surprise themselves. So many people arrive saying, "I'm not creative, " only to leave feeling proud of what they've made and excited to come back. Seeing that confidence grow is incredibly rewarding.Our workshops are designed to feel more like gathering with friends than attending a class. We laugh, chat, share ideas and celebrate each person's unique style. Whether you're coming with friends, planning a creative date, or arriving on your own, you'll find a warm, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere in our warehouse-style studio.I believe creativity isn't about being perfect—it's about being curious. My goal is for every person who walks through our doors to leave feeling inspired, connected and excited to keep creating long after the workshop ends!