Baton Rouge will soon welcome an exciting addition to its artistic landscape with the July 22 grand opening of BellyFire Studios. This newly established ceramics and arts studio has set up shop in the former home of Throw Me Something, . next door to Lighthouse Coffee on Lee Drive.
Currently in a soft opening phase, BellyFire Studios offers an array of activities and events as it aims to be an all-ages hub for both seasoned artists and newcomers just looking to unleash their inner creativity. It’s the brainchild of David Rollins, a seasoned ceramic artist with over a decade of experience. His passion for ceramics and dedication to promoting the arts in Baton Rouge have led him to create this vibrant and welcoming space.
“I went into the business because I love pottery and I love teaching,” Rollins says. “I found that I really enjoy instructing people on how to throw on the wheel.”
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One of the highlights will be a “paint your own pottery” experience. Skilled artists and novices alike can choose from a wide selection of pottery pieces, including mugs, plates, and figurines, and let their imaginations run wild as they create personalized masterpieces. It’s an ideal outing for families, friends or even a solo excursion for those seeking a therapeutic and meditative experience, according to Rollins.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of ceramics, BellyFire Studios also provides wheel lessons. Led by experienced instructors, these classes offer a hands-on approach to mastering the art of wheel throwing. Participants will learn the techniques and skills necessary to shape clay on a pottery wheel, transforming it into beautiful and functional pieces.
Studio rentals are also available at BellyFire Studios, in which customers are granted round-the-clock access to the studio space. Equipped with all the necessary tools and materials, the studios offer a comfortable and inspiring environment to work on a personal project or work in a collaborative space for artistic endeavors.
“My thesis is creating is much more valuable and important than consuming, and we do a lot of consuming for recreation so my mission is to offer BellyFire as a place for the community to come in and create and have a good time,” Rollins says.
BellyFire Studios also offers venue rentals and party packages that cater to birthdays, bridal showers, and other special occasions. It organizes summer camps, team building events, and workshops to foster artistic growth and community engagement. And for a unique and entertaining twist on social gatherings, BellyFire Studios also hosts “Merlot and Mud” nights, where participants can sip on their favorite wine while creating beautiful ceramics.
Beyond providing a space for artists to create and explore their craft, BellyFire Studios offers opportunities for artists to exhibit and sell their creations. The studio aims to foster an environment where artists can thrive and gain recognition for their talent and dedication. By providing a dedicated space for artists to display their work, BellyFire Studios hopes to become a powerful catalyst in promoting local artistic talent.
BellyFire Studios is currently working on a series of renovations as it transforms the space to align with the Rollins’ mission to uplift local artists.
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“The cedar planks are going to be done by a local artist. The murals going to be done by a local artist, even the painting of the walls walls will be done by a local,” Rollins says.
With its diverse range of activities, events and the expertise of David Rollins, this ceramics and arts studio is set to ignite the creative spark in every individual who steps through its doors.
BellyFire Studios is currently open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; Friday noon to 8 p.m.; Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For those that rent studio space, BellyFire is accessible 24 hours with restricted access to the general public. BellyFire’s grand opening will take place on July 22. For more information about BellyFire studios, visit bellyfirestudios.com.