Crossword Genius

The artist uses it with no trouble on open level (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

easel

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'the artist uses it' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'with no trouble on open level' is the wordplay.
'with' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'no trouble' becomes 'ease' (I've seen this before).
'on open level' becomes 'l' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'ease'+'l' is 'EASEL'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for easel that I've seen before include "Painter's support" , "The rest of artists" , "A stand for blackboard or artist's canvas" , "Support in the studio" , "supporter of the arts" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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