The Maker Space Studios To Open In Avon Lake

AVON LAKE, OH — The Maker Space Studios will open in Avon Lake on Oct. 2.

Located at 690 Avon Belden Road, next to Salad KraZe, the studio will serve as a one-stop-shop for artists. There will be space for classes, galleries and creation of art of various types. The studio will also host rotating pop-up shops throughout the year.

The studio is owned by Christine Scott and run by managing partner Lisa Bridenbaker. Both women trace their roots back to Avon Lake schools, though their paths diverged after graduation. Bridenbaker became an artist, while Scott got involved in the world of commercial real estate.

While grinding in the real estate world, Scott dreamed of opening her own art boutique. She wanted to carry Bridenbaker's art in her store. When the two had lunch, their plans evolved.

"We caught up and re-evaluated and developed the Maker Space concept over a long lunch. We decided the boutique would be phase two," Scott said.

After scouting Avon and Avon Lake for an appropriate storefront, they landed on their space on Avon Belden Road. They described the store as "perfect."

Perfect though it was, it still needed work to become an art studio and boutique. Scott had a second bathroom and new flooring installed, painted the entire interior, from floor to ceiling, and closed off some walls.

To prepare for the unique challenges posed by COVID-19, Scott and Bridenbaker also placed signs around the storefront reminding customers to maintain social distance. They also purchased masks to distribute to visitors and hand sanitizer. There are sinks in every room and some of the equipment requires goggles and masks to use.

"People are asking me if I’m crazy for opening a business during COVID. I’m prepared. We’re physically prepared. It did not deter me. People still need therapy during this time of their life and art is therapy," Scott said.

Until the virus passes, classes will have limited registration and rooms will accommodate fewer people than possible.

Scott and Bridenbaker believe art will help people traverse these difficult times. That's why the studio is open to people who have never picked up a brush, or pencil, or used a kiln, and expert artists alike.

"Take our classes. You’re going to have exceptional training. I’m going to take some of our classes," Scott said. "Not only will you be part of a community but you will have people here to offer advice."

" You won’t be the only new person there. You’ll learn something new every time you break something down and try again. It’s like getting free art lessons," Bridenbaker added.

The studio will have an official ribbon cutting on Oct. 2, an Avon Lake official said.

To learn about Maker Space Studios, visit the group's Facebook.