• Editor’s Note: This feature article was submitted to Kane County Connects by the village of East Dundee. Kane County Connects welcomes feature articles submitted by Kane County units of government or chambers of commerce. If you are interested in submitting a feature article to Kane County Connects, please contact Rick Nagel at nagelrick@co.kane.il.us or 630-208-5133.

Local Dundee business owner Tricia Saviano Hammer recently announced the addition of a new business partner, Crystal Starr Miller, to meet the increase in her business at Artisticology, located at 111 W. Main St. in Dundee.  Artisticology drew attention to itself last summer with the unique wine glass designs and open-air art classes at the Wine Down Wednesdays events held in East Dundee.

Tricia Saviano Hammer, an art therapist and licensed counselor nearing completion of a PhD in Human Services, saw the interest in her studio-based, group art classes take off with a higher concentration of women seeking fun and relaxation in an art-focused setting. Paint droplets and imperfections are welcomed, while sipping on your own favorite libation or munching on a snack while painting is encouraged.

“It’s just a laid-back, fun escape from the daily roles we play as moms, sisters, daughters or wives,” a recent customer said.

Saviano Hammer is quick to admit that while business was booming, her time was getting stretched too thin and time with her young family was becoming less frequent.   It was time to make a change.

As luck would have it, Crystal Starr Miller an Artisticology instructor of two years was ready to grow in her role and responsibilities. As a Dundee native, Starr Miller knows a lot of area residents and is comfortable in fostering both a learning and encouraging environment.

“Most adults think that they have to paint like Rembrandt or Monet to make an attractive piece for their home or work. We show them that everyone has their own unique talent. We try to take the pressure off with a little humor and fun.   And yes, the wine they bring in helps the creative process” smiles the new partner, Starr Miller who assisted Saviano Hammer with the open-air classes at Wine Down Wednesdays.

“All are welcome at Artisticology,” says Saviano Hammer. “While we’ve seen an increase in women, we also provide art classes for children, men, young, old and everything in between. We’ve seen it all and have had great experiences with everyone from all walks of life. Art takes on a story that is unique to its creator. We just like providing that opportunity for everyone.”

For more information about Artisticology’s hours of operation, class schedules or private parties, contact Crystal at (847) 707-4433 and for art therapy/counseling, contact Tricia at (847)997-1031 or go towww.artisticology.com, or visit their facebook page, at www.facebook.com/artisticology

About Artisticology

Artisticology, LLC wascreated to give people the opportunity to make art. It is grounded in the idea that the process of making art, no matter the skill level, has the potential to foster growth, learning, healing, joy, and beyond.

About the village of East Dundee

The village of East Dundee is located at 120 Barrington Avenue, East Dundee, IL and is home to 2,882 residents. Its downtown plan is to create a “culinary” district consisting of the right mix of restaurants, retail, and community events to serve as a destination attraction for both residents and regional visitors. For more information on the plan, visit the economic development section on the village website at  www.eastdundee.net