Today we’d like to introduce you to Karyn Blaney.
Hi Karyn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Karyn Blaney is a California artist, educator, and the founder of ArtSocial 805, a vibrant art studio located in Paso Robles. Her creative journey began with a lifelong love of art and connection, eventually leading her to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking from Kent State University. After working as an instructional designer for Ernst & Young, Karyn returned to her artistic roots and began building a business centered on creativity, community, and meaningful shared experiences.
In 2014, she launched ArtSocial 805 as a traveling art studio, bringing creative workshops to wineries, businesses, schools, private celebrations, and community events throughout California’s Central Coast. What began as a mobile art experience eventually grew into a permanent studio in downtown Paso Robles—a welcoming, colorful space where children, adults, families, and visitors can explore pottery, painting, mosaics, watercolor, mixed media, and many other forms of art.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The COVID-19 shutdowns presented one of the greatest challenges in Karyn’s journey as a small-business owner. With in-person classes, private parties, winery events, and community gatherings suddenly canceled, the connection-based business she had worked so hard to build came to an abrupt pause. Karyn had to quickly rethink how ArtSocial 805 could continue bringing creativity to people while everyone remained apart. Through uncertainty, financial strain, and constantly changing restrictions, she adapted by finding new ways for customers to create from home. The experience tested her resilience, but it also strengthened her commitment to the community and reinforced her belief that art can provide comfort, connection, and hope during even the most difficult times.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
ArtSocial 805 is especially known for our Paint Your Pet experiences, creative winery events, children’s art programs, private celebrations, and team-building workshops. I love developing projects that feel fresh and exciting while still being achievable for someone who may walk in saying, “I’m not artistic.” Helping that person relax, trust the process, and leave feeling proud of what they created is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
What sets ArtSocial 805 apart is that we are not limited to one type of art or one kind of experience. Guests can visit our Paso Robles studio, choose from a variety of creative projects, attend a guided workshop, or have us bring the entire experience to another location. My background in fine art and instructional design allows me to combine strong artistic foundations with clear, encouraging instruction. I focus less on perfection and more on helping people feel comfortable experimenting, expressing themselves, and making meaningful memories.
I am most proud of the community I have built around ArtSocial 805. What began as a traveling art studio in 2014 has grown into a permanent creative space that welcomes children, adults, families, visitors, and local organizations. I am also proud that the business has continued to evolve through unexpected challenges, including the COVID-19 shutdowns. Those experiences required resilience, creativity, and the willingness to reinvent how we served our community.
More than anything, I am proud that ArtSocial 805 gives people permission to create. It is a place where friendships are formed, families spend meaningful time together, children build confidence, and adults rediscover a creative side of themselves they may have forgotten. That sense of connection is at the heart of everything I do: Create, Connect, Celebrate.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
A mentor does not need to have followed your exact career path. Look for someone whose character, resilience, leadership, or approach to business you admire. Ask thoughtful questions, remain open to honest feedback, and respect their time. The best mentors will not simply agree with everything you do—they will help you think bigger, work through challenges, and stay connected to the purpose behind your dream.
Most importantly, keep showing up and believe in the value of what you are building. Find people who inspire you, celebrate your progress, and remind you of your vision when the journey becomes difficult. Strong relationships are built over time through trust, consistency, collaboration, and mutual support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artsocial805.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artsocial805/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtSocial805
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/artsocial-805-paso-robles?osq=ArtSocial+805
