the porch: a cozy art studio for messy play
The Porch is a cozy art studio in Manchester, NH, created for children and adults to explore, create, and make a joyful mess.
Each child session invites 3–8 year old's to dive into paint, experiment with tools, and follow their own curiosity—no rules, just creative play.
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The idea for The Porch began when I saw the joy my son and I shared as we played with color, texture, and a variety of tools on large canvases.
That same spark of delight appeared in children and adults as they added their marks to my community canvas at art festivals.
I knew that I wanted to guide that opportunity so that others could experience the same freedom and joy of messy art making.
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The Porch is a long sunlit porch on the side of our 1920s home. We put down foam mats over the concrete areas for warmth and comfort. Flip down tables make the space multi functional.
In the winter, we’ll have a space heater going but on sunny days the space get warmed up nicely. It can still get a bit chilly, so dress in layers.
A bathroom is available inside the house.
The Porch is a snack-free space, as my family and some visitors have food allergies. Thank you for helping keep our studio safe for everyone. You’re welcome to bring a water bottle.
I maintain a current background check through my teaching work with Willowdale NH.
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The Porch offers a gentle, environment where imagination takes the lead.
All materials are as non-toxic as possible and natural materials often make their way into the studio, connecting artmaking with the textures and beauty of the world outside.
Child aprons are available, but we always encourage dressing for mess—the “mess-o-meter” runs high here!
Each session is limited to 5 children
Parents of older children 5+ are welcome to drop off and pick up later. Younger children will need an adult to accompany them.
Brandy can provide locations nearby to enjoy the time to yourself.
Adult Sessions are a blend of art workshops on and off The Porch- these include The Art Remix and Wildcrafted Marks classes.