Getting creative isn’t always easy.
Perhaps one of the most challenging obstacles in developing craft skills and jump-starting that hardware development idea you’ve been working on is finding the studio space to hone those talents. That’s when makerspaces come in.
Makerspaces can be defined as community areas where people share tools and studio space to test out ideas and flesh out art projects. From painting to technological experimentation, makerspaces are useful for developing ideas and talent. Luckily, Columbus has a few of these studios around town for you to check out.
Columbus Idea Foundry
This particular maker space boasts that it’s the largest of its kind on the planet and the fact that it’s 65,000 square feet makes it a believable claim. They provide the space and tools you’ll need for any work or artistic project. For 85 dollars a month you can enjoy full membership privileges which include 24-hour access. Classes range from the fine arts to electronics to blacksmithing.
Where: 421 W State St #254, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Columbus Idea Foundry
Bareclay
Bareclay is a great place to get your hands dirty. This pottery paradise offers a variety of classes and services, including one-on-one private classes where you can hone your craft. Bareclay is a great place for those just getting into the world of creating and is very beginner-friendly.
Where: 734 E Lincoln Ave, Columbus, OH 43229
Website: Bareclay
Franklin Art Glass Studios
Open since 1924 in what is now German Village, this glass arts studio offers everything you need to create custom glass pieces. They provide professional space to work as well as 1,900 different types of glass for artists to purchase in-house. Whether you’re an avid professional or occasional hobbyist, Franklin Art Glass Studios has everything you’ll need to create.
Where: 222 E Sycamore St, Columbus, OH 43206
Website: Franklin Art Glass Studios
Cultural Arts Center
Columbus’ Cultural Arts Center provides the perfect environment for students and artists to get serious about their craft. The center has been open for 40 years and has helped decades of Columbus citizens to make art. Various affordable classes are available for registration as well as galleries that are free for public viewing.
Where: 139 W Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Cultural Arts Center
400 W. Rich
Originally an old manufacturing warehouse, 400 W. Rich transformed the space into a place for artists and creatives to flourish and express. Not only do they have a fairly large workspace but the building also houses music studios, offices for local start-ups, galleries, and classroom space. Every second Friday of the month they have 3 new gallery openings that are open to the public and provides a chance for the artists to get to know the community.
Where: 400 W Rich St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: 400 W. Rich
