The Painted Palm, a new art studio in Keysville, will open its doors to the public Friday at 7 p.m.

“I have been doing paint parties in people’s homes for about two years,” said owner Katy Clark. “About three months ago, ironically, as we were painting a sunset scene with palm trees, I made the decision that I needed to look for a studio space.”

Clark said she didn’t mind traveling, but wanted to incorporate the paint night experience into the equation.

She consulted with her friend Lisa Walker. “Lisa Walker, my very talented and artistic friend, has been painting murals in homes and also teaching classes from her home,” Clark said. “When I first mentioned the idea of an art studio, she jumped up and said ‘Count me in.’”

Clark said Walker has played a big role in helping to get to studio off the ground.

Walker said she was mainly doing craft nights while Clark was doing paint nights. “We’re friends and she (Clark) had posted on Facebook about wanting to do this, and I was like ‘Count me in,’” said Walker.

When choosing the name, Clark and Walked said they wanted to pick something that would be appealing to everyone.

According to Clark, the studio will feature general paint nights in addition to private events and birthday parties.

Wednesdays will be reserved for Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) students as she offers an intro to painting class in the fall.

“I have a master’s degree in art education and five years of experience with SVCC,” Clark said. She’s worked as an elementary art teacher for Charlotte County Public Schools for the last 13 years.

Thursdays and Fridays will see the new venture open to the general public. “Most will be paint nights, but there may be other types of arts and crafts as well as time passes,” said Clark.

The studio will be open Saturdays to accommodate kid-related events and private bookings.

Clark and Walker will alternate teaching days at the studio to increase availability. Clark said in the future she hopes to feature more guest artists.

“One of the most exciting events coming up this summer is our art camp,” said Clark. The camp will be held July 17-21 and open to all students ages 5-15. The cost will be $20 per day, including a snack.

Clark said children ages 5-10 will have a morning session from 9 a.m.-noon and ages 10-15 will be held in the afternoon from 1-4 p.m.

“I feel like this is an extension of my love for art,” Clark said.

All reservations and payments will be handled through Eventbrite.

The Painted Palm is located at 117 St. in Keysville. For more information on registration and class schedules, visit The Painted Palm on Facebook or call (434) 547-8391.