The following article is form the Campbell Times, August 8 2005

The Art Beat
When Erinn Turi graduated from San Jose State University with an art education degree in 2000, she said she knew she wanted to help others unleash their creative abilities.

Five years later that dream has come true. Turi and her fiancé, Jesus Aguillon opened The Art Beat, located at
68 E. Campbell Ave. in downtown Campbell, in January.

Bonita Tanner, a frequent patron at The Art Beat in downtown Campbell, works on putting the finishing touches on her vase. Tanner said she enjoys the atmosphere of The Art Beat, although she doesn’t consider herself to be the artistic type. Photo by Ken Lotich

Turi previously taught art classes at several community centers in San Jose, including ones in Saratoga and Los Gatos.

“I’ve always wanted to have a space to offer classes,” Turi said. “Now, it’s happened. I have a warm, friendly, family environment to offer to people.”

Turi said she spotted the location in October, and immediately called the landlord to secure the spot. The previous tenant had run an Internet café, but that was short lived, which was a bit ironic to Aguillon, who was laid off at his high-tech job.

Although the scenery is quite different in the art studio in comparison to high-tech, Aguillon said he has been enjoying every minute of it.

“It’s nice to do something different,” Aguillon said. “I really enjoy helping children and seeing the expressions on their faces.”

Currently Turi and Aguillon run the business on their own, with art teachers who work part time teaching classes.
The Art Beat offers a plethora of art activities, including bisqueware (pre-made pottery), handbuilding with clay, a potter’s wheel, mosaic pots, stepping stones, coasters and wood and glass projects.

Classes are also offered, as well as party packages.

“It’s been really nice to be a part of the neighborhood,” Turi said. “Everyone has been very supportive and very welcoming.”

The Art Beat is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday the studio’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (408) 370-5002 or visit The Art Beat Web site at www.theartbeat.net.