From coastal Carolina back to the heart of Monroe County, Ross and Cyndi Hanna have brought their passion for art, creativity, and community to downtown Union with their new venture, Artistic Alchemy Studio. Together, the husband-and-wife team are reviving the paint party experience they once shared in the Greenbrier Valley, this time with even more color, craft, and connection.
From Lewisburg to Myrtle Beach and Home Again
Ross and Cyndi Hanna’s creative journey began in Lewisburg, where their first studio opened on Court Street. From there, they moved to Washington Street next to the Greenbrier Valley Theatre before eventually expanding into the old Morgan Insurance building in Ronceverte.
After the challenges of 2020, the Hannas decided to close Ross Hanna Studios in 2021 and relocate to Myrtle Beach for a time. Eventually, they chose to return to Union, inspired to reopen a studio where they could share their art and creativity with the local community.
Ross: The Artist Behind the Brush
Ross’s art background includes portraits, still lifes, and landscapes, with several works gaining national attention. He has several well known paintings out there. One is The Temptation of Christ, which he painted under the name Zulienn. That piece has been used throughout the country, in churches, bulletins, and different write-ups.
Ross’s expertise as a painter shapes the classes at Artistic Alchemy Studio, infusing each paint party and workshop with creativity and attention to detail.
Cyndi’s Touch
Much of Artistic Alchemy’s family-friendly personality comes from Cyndi’s influence. “My wife is very much a part of the studio,” Ross said. “She’s involved in every aspect. She’s great with kids, and she’s working on art programs for homeschooled students that can count toward graduation, while also building partnerships with local schools. She’s amazing at what she does.”
A Studio Like No Other
“I think it’s unique because there’s nothing like it in town,” Ross said. “That’s another big part of what Cyndi brings. She does all kinds of crafting, different types of projects. She’ll be offering a private crafting class as well. She knows a lot of techniques and always brings fresh ideas.”
He said the studio’s goal is to create a warm, lively place where everyone feels at home. “There’s something here for everyone, kids, adults, even seniors. We want people to relax, forget their worries for a while, and just have fun creating something. It’s all about fun, relaxation, and community.”
Inside a Class or Party
“Typically, we’ll have some music playing as people arrive,” Ross said. “We greet everyone, help them get settled, and if they’ve brought a drink, whether it’s wine, soda, or water, they can relax and sip while they paint. The atmosphere is really laid-back and energetic.”
He added, “We walk around, help people as they paint, and offer little tips or guidance. There’s no judgment. Most people are surprised at what they can create. Everyone leaves with something beautiful.”
Accessible for Everyone
When asked if beginners should feel intimidated, Ross emphatically replied, “You don’t have to know how to paint to attend. Just come as you are, and we’ll help you. It’s for everyone, all ages, all experience levels. We’ve had people who’ve never picked up a brush before and end up with a piece of art they’re proud of. We’ve also had experienced painters come just to relax and have fun.”
Looking Ahead
The couple plans to introduce “open paint” days and expand their private class offerings. “We want people to have a place to just sit down, paint, and relax,” Ross said. “We’ll provide the canvas and supplies. They can paint whatever they like.”
As for what keeps him inspired, Ross said, “The most rewarding part is seeing people grow. Watching someone go from thinking they can’t paint to creating something beautiful, it’s amazing. Seeing smiles on people’s faces, especially the kids, that’s the best reward possible.”
When You Go
Artistic Alchemy Studio
315 Main Street, Downtown Union, WV
Phone: 304-503-3311
Email: artisticalchemywv@gmail.com
Website: https://artistic-alchemy-studio.com/
Typical class prices range from $25 to $35, with group and private rates available. Open paint sessions and children’s programs are coming soon.
Where Creativity Comes Home
With open doors and plenty of energy, Ross and Cyndi Hanna are strengthening the creative heartbeat of Union. Their return shows how inspiration can come full circle, finding new life in familiar places and encouraging everyone who walks through their doors to try something new.
