Not every Athenian takes advantage of all Athens has to offer. Get rid of the déja vu feeling and go ahead and get lost!

ARTinis Art Lounge

ALLISON LOVE/Staff

Even if you’re no Picasso, there’s no reason to limit your artistic horizons. Grab a buddy and hit downtown art studio ARTinis, which offers group painting classes for all skill levels five days a week. Every day the students are taught how to paint a different work of art. The paintings differ greatly from class to class, so make sure to check out the online calendar to pick your favorite and reserve a spot.  Your artistic ability doesn’t matter; the step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow every stroke. If you get lost or have a question, trust me, you’re not alone. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun, and drinks are available for purchase on site. You can buy beer or wine and bring snacks. Lessons are reasonably priced given that everything you’ll need for the class is provided. Most of the paintings are done on canvas, although some lessons include working on wine glasses or other objects. Of course you could always just go out and buy a nice picture, but where’s the fun in that? The true satisfaction comes in knowing that you created the work of art yourself.

» If you are an artist, or group classes just aren’t your thing, ARTinis also offers Open Studio during the day. All the art supplies are still provided, minus the step-by-step instruction and structured format. Just grab an easel and start painting to your heart’s content. Private group sessions are also available for birthday parties, etc.

Usually Tuesday through Saturday 7 p.m.
$35 flat fee; $25 Open Studio fee
www.artinisartlounge.com

Canopy Studios

AJ REYNOLDS/Staff

If you’re looking for something especially off-the-wall, try a trapeze or fabrics class at Canopy Studio. The class sessions usually run for about seven weeks, and drop-in classes aren’t recommended because the trapeze technique requires a level of learned skill. The trapezes are adjustable and mats cover the floor, so as long as you follow instructions, you should stay relatively safe. Lessons range from beginner to advanced, and if you decide that trapeze is your calling, the repertory company is also an option. The “aerial arts” are definitely an out-of-the-ordinary route to artistic expression.

Classes vary
$10 to $17 per class
(current session ends Oct. 23)

Word of Mouth

Word of Mouth, the monthly open poetry readings at the Globe, is definitely the time to spill your poetic soul. Arrive early to grab a glass of wine or beer and head up the stairs to the upper room before it gets too crowded. Upon arrival, attendees can sign their names on a sheet of paper in the order they want to present their work. After a few people speak, the featured reader will read his or her poetry. The Word of Mouth regulars are incredibly welcoming, and judgment is one form of expression you’re not going to see while you’re there. The poems can range from funny to heart-wrenching to anything in between. Bring a friend (or two), buy a drink (or two) and express yourself Word of Mouth is free and you’ll definitely have something to talk about on the way home.

First Wednesday of every month