ABOUT US
​Catalyst Arts Collaborative is housed within the Gem Center for the Arts in the heart of the Bench in Boise, Idaho. Located near the iconic "Washer Woman," the "Cat" primarily operates from a small community classroom setting in the basement, where on any given day you can find art and writing workshops, figure drawing, lectures, film viewings, book clubs, meetings for Arts organizations, and overall, a sense of community and inclusiveness. We understand that everyone is learning different skills at a different pace, and we LOVE to foster creative growth for ALL life-long learners, providing diverse perspectives within our curriculum in a wide range of mediums and topics.
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We are always developing new programs to support artists and include the community. Bridging the gaps between separate Arts organizations and encouraging collaboration over competition is an overarching goal, as well. Our passion lies in supporting EVERYONE to tap into their creative potential and to provide opportunities for those who otherwise would not be able to engage in the Arts.
Meet the Cat Team
Meet our talented ensemble of creatives, each bringing a unique blend of artistry, passion, and innovation to the Cat canvas.
Aryssa Hutchins
Teacher
Live portraits (set up appointments to sit in the studio. wedding gifts, kids growing up, pets, glow ups and fantasy portraits, costumes, cosplay, bands and album art/posters. pretty much anything involving a human and their appearance. I CAN work from a photo but live is a better experience for the subject. I am not sure how to price this at all, I will have to research portrait artists to see how it's done, since I don't know of any personally.)
Commissions (based on the budget and desires of the patron).
Private lessons (I can teach almost any 2D media including some digital art and design, negotiated per patron).
Casey Gurr
Teacher
Art Instruction:
Beginning to advanced Pottery / Ceramics. Hand-Building and Wheel Throwing.
Printmaking; block printing, Reduction block, Screen Printing.
Drawing techniques
Painting, Airbrush Painting.
Private/ small group lessons.
Commissioned work:
Painted Murals, Shirts and clothing, automotive surfaces, portraits, space themed fine
art paintings.
Custom wheel thrown ceramic vessels / Wares.
Consulting:
Kiln repair, trouble shooting and installation.
Pottery wheels: Purchasing used, trouble shooting, set-up.
Airbrush and compressors for studio use. Help you set your up and get your airbrush
running or trouble shoot issues you are having.
Tawny Olsen
Teacher
Macrame Classes and Home Parties (5-10 people), Custom macrame designs (Large Tree of Life, Wall Hangings, Wall shelves, Wedding backdrops), Large Signature items (at Tona Transformations in downtown Nampa), Smaller items (at meraket) including plant and vase hangers, water bottle hangers, terrarium hangers, hat hangers, small wall hangings, keychains/purse bling, earrings, hat bands, car charms.