We recently connected with Karyn Blaney and have shared our conversation below.

Karyn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

There was a time when my life looked very different. I had the stability of a 9–5 job, the kind where you watch the clock and wait for the day to end. But when I discovered that my daughter was being mistreated by someone I trusted to care for her while I worked, everything changed. I walked away from that job without a second thought. My child needed me, and nothing else mattered.

I have never regretted that decision.

Those years at home—full of love, healing, and rediscovery—taught me more than any career ever had. And when we made the move to California and my kids began school, I felt a stirring in my soul. A quiet nudge that said, It’s time.

So I rolled up my sleeves and took a leap of faith. I started building a business not just from the ground up, but from the inside out—one rooted in passion, creativity, and connection. What began as a small creative endeavor quickly grew into something more meaningful than I ever imagined.

Today, I have the privilege of helping people tap into a side of themselves they may have forgotten—playful, expressive, joyful. I watch as guests come in nervous or unsure, and leave with paint-splattered hands and the biggest smiles. I’ve seen art unlock stories, release stress, bring families closer, and even quiet a mind that’s been loud for too long.

This work is not just something I do—it’s who I am. I thrive on the freedom it brings. I can’t sit still, and thankfully, I don’t have to. Each new event, every new venue, opens the door to possibility. I meet incredible people, learn new things, and bring color to spaces that were waiting for a little magic.

No office cubicle could ever hold me now.

Art makes my soul happy. It gives me a way to give back. And now, every time I set up a paintbrush or guide someone through a creative masterpiece, I’m reminded that this is exactly where I’m meant to be.

Karyn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

The Story Behind ArtSocial 805
ArtSocial 805 isn’t just a business—it’s a reflection of my heart, my passion, and the creative energy that has always been part of who I am.

I’m Karyn Blaney, the founder of ArtSocial 805, a mobile art studio and a new stationary studio based in beautiful Paso Robles, California. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art from Kent State University, where my love for art was both refined and reignited. That foundation helped shape my belief that art isn’t just about talent—it’s about expression, connection, and joy.

After relocating to California, I knew it was time to take my creative dreams seriously and build something that allowed me to share that spark with others. I didn’t want to return to the world of desks and routines. I needed something dynamic, meaningful, and full of life. That’s how ArtSocial 805 was born.

What ArtSocial 805 Does
ArtSocial 805 brings art experiences to you. We’re a fully mobile studio that transforms ordinary spaces into vibrant creative hubs. Whether it’s a winery, school, backyard, or community center, we create experiences that are fun, relaxed, and accessible for everyone.

We offer:

Paint Parties for kids, adults, birthdays, corporate events, and more
Pottery Painting with unique pieces and glazes
Watercolor Workshops and Marbling on Silk
Paint Pouring and mosaics
After-School Programs and In-School Art Enrichment
Creative Programming for Seniors and Alzheimer’s Groups
Public Art Projects and Custom Murals
Art Gift Boxes and DIY Kits
Wherever creativity is needed, we show up—with supplies, guidance, and good vibes.

What Sets Us Apart
What makes ArtSocial 805 different is our mobility, inclusivity, and heart. We meet people where they are—literally and figuratively. We don’t expect you to be an artist. We don’t expect perfection. We create a space where art becomes a joyful, low-pressure experience anyone can enjoy.

I believe deeply in the power of creativity to bring people together, lift spirits, and create memories. Whether it’s a group of coworkers rediscovering their playful side, a family celebrating a milestone, or a senior feeling seen and valued, I’ve watched how art changes people in the best ways.

And because we’re mobile, we make it easy. No setup or stress—just show up and create.

What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m proud of the community we’ve built—one colorful, joy-filled event at a time. I’m proud that ArtSocial 805 has become a name people trust for quality, creativity, and connection. And I’m proud that I’ve built a business that allows me to do what I love: inspire, teach, travel, meet new people, and continually explore what’s possible.

What I Want You to Know
ArtSocial 805 is more than a service—it’s an experience. It’s for everyone who’s ever said “I’m not creative” and walked away with a masterpiece. It’s for people who want to make time for joy, exploration, and connection. It’s about expression, fun, and the freedom to try something new.

If you’re looking for an art experience that comes to you, adapts to your needs, and brings a little more beauty and creativity into your world—we’re here for it.

Let’s make something beautiful together.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

How “Paint Your Pet” Was Born

About 10 years ago, I had a vision for an event where people could create custom portraits of their beloved pets. I imagined the joy of translating the personality of a furry friend into color and canvas, giving people not just a painting, but a deeply personal experience. It felt like the perfect blend of creativity and connection.

But when I first shared the idea with an artist I admired she said. don’t do it, “It too hard for beginners.”

But I believed in the concept and challenged myself to create a method of learning that breakdown the steps for every novice painter that wanted to paint their furry friend. I knew that people love their pets—sometimes more than they love people! And I knew from experience that when given the right tools and guidance, anyone can create something beautiful.

I designed a system where guests would send in photos of their pets ahead of time. I’d turn each image into a sketch that each gusts could then transfer onto a canvas. They had a personal, preliminary image of their pet I provided a simple, supportive environment with professional guidance, color mixing help, and the confidence to go for it.

And then… it took off.

Paint Your Pet became one of my most successful offerings—selling out consistently and creating some of the most emotional and joyful moments I’ve ever witnessed in a workshop. People laughed, cried, and told stories while they painted. I’ve watched countless guests walk away amazed at what they created—hugging their paintings, snapping photos, and already planning to come back.

It wasn’t just a class. It was a celebration of love and memory, a therapeutic process for some, and a joyful tribute for others.

That’s the heart of ArtSocial 805—believing in the power of creativity, even when others don’t see the vision yet. Paint Your Pet reminded me that when you create from passion and trust your instincts, the right people will show up—and they’ll show up with open hearts and paintbrushes in hand.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

How Society Can Best Support Artists:
Recognize Art as More Than a Craft—See It as a Tool for Wellness, Connection, and Purpose

In a fast-paced world filled with constant noise, stress, and disconnection, art offers something essential—a way to pause, to process, to heal.

Yet too often, society treats art as decoration, hobby, or luxury. It’s time we shift that mindset.

To truly support artists, society must recognize that art is not just a craft—it’s a powerful tool. One that contributes to mental health, emotional well-being, personal growth, and even economic opportunity.

Art helps people cope. Whether through painting, sculpting, writing, or performing, the creative process allows individuals to express what words often can’t. It reduces stress, lowers anxiety, and fosters mindfulness. When artists lead workshops or offer creative spaces, they’re doing more than teaching—they’re offering therapy without the label.

Support artists not just as creators of things, but as facilitators of healing.

Art as a Path to Peace and Presence
In a world of screens and speed, art invites presence. It grounds us. Whether someone is glazing pottery, marbling silk, or painting their pet, they are engaged in a meditative act that quiets the mind and opens the heart.

Society can support artists by investing in community art programs, accessible classes, and public art installations that offer this sense of peace to everyone—especially those who may never otherwise be exposed to it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artsocial805.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artsocial805/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtSocial805
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artsocial8054
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/artsocial-805-paso-robles