Reflections
Taking the time to organize my thoughts about my art studio/school was a real treat. I enjoyed crystallizing my ideas on teaching and reflecting on the space I share with my mom. Exploring Audacity was a completely new experience, and tackling it left me feeling incredibly proud. I love knowing that I have this budding skill, even if I’m not yet sure how I’ll use it in the future—I know I will.
iMovie was just as exciting. I can see myself using it both professionally and personally, and I look forward to the fun of creating home movies. Overall, this project pushed me beyond my perceived limitations and gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. I’m truly proud of both the process and the final product.
Podcast Script
Welcome to Liv Saether Art School. I’m Ingrid Allen, and I’d love to take you on a tour of our space here at Paseo 17 in Costa Mesa.
As you step inside, the scent of oil paint and linseed oil lingers in the air—a rich, familiar reminder of the centuries-old techniques we teach. The walls are lined with student work, from sweeping landscapes to classical portraits, each piece reflecting the dedication and growth of the students who paint here.
At the front of the studio, you’ll find a small gallery featuring works by my mother, Liv Saether, and me. This space offers a glimpse into our artistic journeys—Liv’s landscapes and still lifes alongside my portraits and figures. It’s a reflection of the styles we teach and the love of painting that we share.
My mother founded this school in 1993, and today, we are honored to teach the children of the students she guided decades ago—continuing the tradition of art and family that has shaped us. You’ll find her here on Mondays and Wednesdays, gently guiding students through the delicate transitions of light in a landscape or still life. I teach on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and on weekends, I host workshops and art parties, bringing people together through creativity.
As you walk through the studio, you’ll notice ten easels lining the walls, leaving space in the center for students to move freely, observe, and share in each other’s progress. Our classes offer a quiet place for focus and discovery, welcoming students of all levels—from those picking up a brush for the first time to experienced painters refining their craft.
Beyond our regular classes, we also host art parties—a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion with friends, brushes in hand, and creativity flowing.
And after class, you don’t have to rush off. Just outside, you’ll find a beautiful fountain surrounded by shaded seating—the perfect spot to relax with lunch, whether you’ve brought something from home or picked up a bite from one of the wonderful restaurants downstairs, like Ospi, Milligram, or the Mercado. It’s a lovely way to unwind, reflect on your work, and soak in the creative energy of Paseo 17.
Liv Saether Art School isn’t just a place to learn—it’s a place to connect, to observe, and to bring something beautiful to life on canvas. We’d love for you to visit, take a class, or simply experience the creative energy of our space.
Thank you for joining me on this tour—I hope to see you in the studio soon.
Ingrid Allen 