Combine a brightly-hued, lushly landscaped garden with a 1928 historic landmark and you have the perfect setting for an artistic endeavor. And when Richard and Patti Herdell - owners of San Clemente Art Supply - noticed the ideal site on north El Camino Real, they envisioned the creation of an idyllic space where local artists would come to paint, teach and purchase supplies.

“In 2001, Richard took an early retirement,” explained Patti, “we had always wanted to own our own business, and while driving through town I realized there was no art supply shop to be found in this area.”

With this discovery in hand, the couple returned to their home in Texas to prepare for a move. Doing her homework, Patti consulted with friends in the art supply business, attended the National Art Material Trade Association (NAMTA) show and then, taking it a step further, began researching artists in San Clemente and the surrounding area. Upon discovering local artist, Rick Delanty, Patti quickly contacted and began conferring with him.

“Rick was the wind in our sails,” Patti revealed with obvious devotion. “He was our inspiration and our guide encouraging us all the way. He was key in helping us to make the San Clemente Art Supply become a reality.”

Equipped with this knowledge and encouragement, the Herdells made their move to San Clemente and soon began setting up shop. 

Their art offerings encompass just about anything and everything a budding or accomplished artist could desire. Several large rooms just off of the entry house shelf after shelf of supplies including brushes, palettes, canvas, oils, acrylics, pastels, charcoals, sketchbooks, unique papers, gifts and much more. 

Says Patti … “if you can’t find it, or we don’t stock it here, we can do our best to get it for you.”

Along with their well-equipped space for art supplies they have created a special play area just for the kiddies. Complete with an art table and blocks, it is set up to make shopping easier for those parents who might want to visit the store. And located at the rear of this picturesque emporium is the piece de resistance … the classroom workshop, where there is something exciting continuously happening.

“We invite artists from all over the country to come and give indoor and outdoor classes here,” said Heather Rapozo, class/event coordinator and company marketer. “Paul Van Ernich, who comes from Holland once yearly to give an Old Masters Dutch technique class, will be here again in November.”

Other artists giving demos and teaching classes at this self-proclaimed Center for the Arts include: Festival of the Arts participant Elaine Cohen, figurative and landscape painter Alan Nowell, watercolorist Susan Winslow, calligraphy instructor Victoria Kibildis, former Surfer Magazine art director Hyatt Moore, Golden Brand acrylics specialist Kevin Greeland, visiting Florida impressionist Manon Sander and multimedia expressionist Jake Herdell … as well as many others.

Classes and workshops at the Center range in cost from $65 to approximately $250 and are offered in daily, weekly and monthly increments, with specialty events reaching as high as $300-$500. There are also demonstrations with working artists representing popular product lines. A $5 fee includes the lecture and samples, and the fee can be applied to any purchase of that brand.  

For more information about these offerings visit www.scartsupply.com.

Not only a Mecca for beginning and experienced artists; this historical cottage also hosts one of the few in-house, custom framing wood-working shops available in the area. A beautifully appointed wall, located in direct view from the entryway, greets patrons with a wide array of framing choices. 

“We offer custom frames in all sizes and price ranges,” said Heather, a long-time employee of the shop. “This is a family-owned, onsite operation. Our framing team - Tom, Murray and Patrick - have over 90-years framing experience between them, and our downstairs wood-working space is state-of-the-art.”

Specializing in-but not limited to-museum and conservation framing, SC Art Supply is equipped to frame oil and acrylic paintings, watercolor, pastels, original works on paper, lithographs, art photography, family photos, memorabilia, heirlooms, military awards, needlework and many other art forms. 

Along with providing an extensive line of fairly priced fine art supplies, classes, and custom framing, this accommodating studio also plays host to art shows, concerts and poetry reading via their Green Flash Gallery.  

With the support of local, national and international artists, the blessings of resident artist, Rick Delanty, the encouragement of the San Clemente Art Association, and the patronage of the artist community in the area, San Clemente Art Supply seems to be the go-to Center of the Arts that Richard Herdell always knew it would be. And if you decide to pay them a visit, don’t forget to enjoy the aroma and beauty of the exquisite array of roses planted and tended to onsite by Richard Herdell himself.