Jay Davenport’s realistic artwork can be found hanging in galleries across the country, and on Saturday afternoon he will officially open the doors to his own instruction studio in Jim Thorpe.

“I’ve been teaching privately for 11 years, but this is the first building I’ve had to do this commercially,” said Davenport.

The large wooden-floored studio contains two long rows of easels where students learn the basics, from simple shape and perspective skills in charcoal to oil painting techniques.

“We have people of all levels,” he said. “It’s more one-on-one instruction than a group class.”

Davenport sets his students up with supplies that can be purchased at the studio and gives individual attention to the novice sketcher, while dishing out as-needed direction to those who have surpassed the amateur level.

“We will work with all ages,” he said.

“I had a woman walk in with her daughter today. I’m trying to get something going on Saturdays for kids. The school system has cut a lot of funding to the arts programs, so I’m trying to introduce younger people to the art world.”

Davenport’s grandfather, William Muschavich, took him for his first art lesson when he was 11-years-old.

Muschavich passed away a year later, but Davenport never forgot the love of art his grandfather instilled in him.

“I attended Luzerne Community College for painting illustration,” he said.

It was during his stint at the college where he met his mentor, Anthony Waichulis.

According to the 46-year-old, it was Waichulis’s realism style that drew his eye.

Davenport went on to apprentice with Waichulis for four years before moving out on his own.

“I took what I’ve learned and just wanted to share it with others,” he said.

Davenport moved from the Bloomsburg area to Jim Thorpe nearly 10 years ago.

“My sister moved here and I liked it. I liked the area and town, it’s artsy.”

The professional artist has taught workshops around the country, including a regular class at Bethlehem’s Banana Factory.

“Being an artist is kind of a lonely business, but this brings people in, it builds camaraderie and gives me a chance to give back from what I’ve learned.”

Davenport’s open house will take place Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m., at his 531 North St. studio, located behind Mint Salon.

“We will have refreshments and hours D’ouerves and I’ll have class applications and art demos. I’ll show the different types of media we use. I want to bring people in to learn that we are here and let them know what we have to offer,” he said.

Davenport currently offers classes on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, but is looking to expand hours based on interest.

“I’ll do paint parties to, ‘Paint with Jay.’ I used to travel to do them, but now we can do them in this space.”

For more information on Davenport or his classes, visit www.jdavenportart.com.