Abstract: An easel comprises a base and a hinge coupled to a top portion of the base. The easel further includes a plurality of arms depending from a front member of the hinge and a plurality of retention clips, each one of the retention clips disposed on each one of the arms. A plurality of support braces depend from a rear member of the hinge, each one of the support braces coupled to one of the plurality of arms. A plurality of legs depend from the base. The arms, braces and legs permit the easel to be manipulated into a variety of positions and angles to accommodate the artist's preferences. Each retention clip accommodates variable positions of a canvass relative to the arms and braces. The legs comprise a joint that is variably positionable relative to the base, with the joint articulating in a recess formed in the base.

Abstract: Improved portable easel (10) comprising two functional sections, base (12) and arm holder (16) fastened together with locking hinge mechanism (14) formed by adjustable clutches (14A,14B). The arm holder comprises a plurality of members with an elbow-shaped bend (52A, 52B), containing a plurality of openings in the distal end attached to the hinge mechanism (14) and a plurality of openings in the proximal end, such that proximal openings are at right angles. This hinge mechanism permits the curved holder to fold down over the base and the legs for compact storage and up for a range of angles. Adjustable length arms (22) are attached to arm holder with adjustable clutches (18), allowing arms to freely pivot in a plane until locked in position. Adjustable support legs (20) are pivotally fastened within angled cutouts (42) in the base. Sliding, adjustable, artwork holders (24) are attached to the arms with adjustable clamps.