When Allison May Jensen launched an art studio in her basement in 2012, she had no grand plan — just a passion for art and a deep desire to give children what her childhood art teacher, Mrs. Funk, once gave her: a space to create freely and feel seen as an artist.
From those humble roots, Orange Easel has grown into one of the Northland’s most beloved creative hubs for kids. What began as “Miss Allison’s Art” in her Liberty dining room evolved into a full-fledged children’s art studio by 2014, and now spans two locations, nearly a dozen instructors, and a thriving community of over 450 students annually.
But the heart of Orange Easel has never changed. It remains a space designed not just to teach children art, but to nurture artists. Whether it’s a toddler's first time finger painting or a teen refining anime-inspired sketches, students at Orange Easel are encouraged to explore, express, and grow in a community that celebrates creativity without pressure or perfection.
No matter the age of the kid, Orange Easel has a class fit for all ages — even children at heart:
Toddler Art + Play (Ages 12 months - 36 months): Exploration without the cleanup
This 45-minute class is all about process, not product. There’s no formal lesson — just thoughtfully designed art and sensory stations to explore at your little one’s pace. Think paint, rice bins, slime, and glue — without any of it ending up on your own kitchen floor. Bonus: there’s even a climbing structure for gross motor play.
Classes meet weekly, three times per month. Parents are present. Offered at 11:30 a.m.
Preschool Fundamentals (Ages 3–5): A beautiful blend of structure and freedom
This 90-minute class begins with a structured lesson before transitioning into open-ended stations for free play. Each month centers around an art concept (like contrast, circles, or sculpture) and a media focus (clay, watercolors, printmaking, etc.).
Offered at 9:30 a.m. once a week for three sessions each month. Parents may stay or drop off.
Elementary to high school (Kindergarten–12th Grade): Three unique paths to fit every creative mind
Once a student reaches elementary age, they pick an art track at Orange Easel. There’s the multimedia track, where every month brings a new medium — chalk pastels, acrylics, fiber arts, and more. Students brainstorm, plan, and create their own finished project by the month’s end. Then there’s the drawing track, which is focused on building the technical skill of drawing and is less project-focused and more lesson-focused. Older students can choose between realistic drawing and comic/illustrative styles. Then there’s the creative explorations track, which is great for independent learners who just want to make art on their own terms. No formal lessons here, just rotating stations and mentors available for one-on-one help when requested.
Classes meet after school; homeschool options available in Liberty and Platte City.
Online art classes for all ages (even adults!): Video-based creativity with a “use what you have” philosophy
Orange Easel’s online membership includes weekly live Zoom classes for kids, teens, and adults, all recorded and available on-demand. From sculpture to watercolor to comic drawing, these lessons are crafted for creativity at home using what you have on hand — no fancy supplies required.
Adults can join standalone classes or subscribe for access to a rotating lineup of mixed media, meditative art, and chalk pastel sessions.
If you’re looking to join a class at Orange Easel, fall enrollment has begun! Find more information about classes on their website, orangeeaselart.com, or email artclasses@orangeeaselart.com.