Why Choose the Branford Art Studio
Empowering Students to Succeed in the Visual Arts
Nestled in the heart of Connecticut’s vibrant artistic community, the Branford Art Studio has been a beacon of creativity and inspiration. Founded by the visionary artist Marc-Anthony Massaro in June of 2002, this haven for artistic expression offers a unique blend of traditional training and cutting-edge technology.
At the core of the Studio’s mission is the unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for students of all skill levels. From beginners taking their first steps into the world of art to seasoned professionals looking to refine their craft, every individual who walks through the doors of the Brand Art Studio is met with warmth and encouragement.
Embark On a Journey of Self-discovery
Under the guidance of skilled instructors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise, students at the Branford Art Studio embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative growth. Our curriculum emphasizes both technical proficiency and artistic exploration, so students gain a solid foundation on which to build and expand their creative vision.
Image: “Mother’s Chair” — a work from our Open Studio
Whether you find yourself at the Branford Art Studio as a novice eager to learn, or as a seasoned artist seeking to reignite your passion, you are sure to find a community of like-minded individuals who share your love for art and creativity. Marc Massaro and his team of teachers create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where artistic expression thrives and flourishes.
As you immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Studio, you’ll discover a world of possibilities waiting to be explored. From traditional mediums to innovative techniques, our curriculum is designed to inspire and challenge you to push the boundaries of your creativity. Whether you’re sketching a still life, painting a landscape, or sculpting a masterpiece, the Branford Art Studio is a place where your artistic dreams can take flight.
Join us on this transformative journey of artistic discovery & growth
A Little History
In 2002, I was beginning my 18th year teaching at the Guilford Art Center; then called the Guilford Handcraft Center. It was a wonderful place to teach, but after 18 years I was getting the urge to move on.
I had been thinking for quite a while of the possibility of expanding my Branford studio into a school. I began to make layouts of how I would redesign the studio to accommodate students, and all was falling into place. But I was missing a very important component: a business manager.
Enter one Lauren Mangan. Lauren had been taking a painting class with me at the Guilford Art Center, and overheard me talking about wanting to open my own school. She had an impressive resume of business experience, and offered to help me get the school started. She told me her business background and my teaching skills were the perfect example of one of her favorite rules: “Stick to what you’re good at!”
So, we teamed up, and on June 4, 2002 the Branford Art Studio opened its doors to the Connecticut Shoreline art community for the very first class. What happened in the years to come was beyond my wildest expectations. The Branford Art Studio’s popularity grew with every passing year. Students from all over Connecticut — as far as Fairfield and New London counties — regularly enroll in our classes.
The studio has also been selected more than a half dozen times as one of the Best Art Schools on the Shoreline by the Shoreline Newspapers Reader’s Poll.
And now we have blinked our eyes and Lauren and I found ourselves celebrating the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Branford Art Studio. It has been the most rewarding twenty years of our lives. Students have developed lasting friendships with other students, and in turn all of these wonderful people have become our good friends as well. Aside from the success of the studio as a good learning facility, I think I am sometimes prouder of the art community that has developed here through the bonds established within the student body.
Looking Ahead
Now that I’m older, I’m often asked if I have any plans to retire. I tell them that I don’t believe people in the arts retire. The creative spirit endeavors to the last breath.
After 40+ years of teaching, I still feel a sense of excitement and accomplishment when I see a student’s work excel because of something I taught them. And as long as I continue to feel that way, the Branford Art Studio will carry on into the future.
In the present I extend a heartfelt thank you to the scores of students who put their faith in my instruction and guidance over the last 20 years.
And into the future, I assure all of my students, new and returning I will continue to provide the best art instruction that I can.
