For Tammy Morris, Melt Art Studio is much more than a business—it’s a personal journey and a space for people to gather, create, and connect. Located in Searcy, Arkansas, the studio offers a welcoming environment for both art lovers and beginners alike. With a background in elementary education, Tammy’s story is one of passion and creativity, leading her to open Melt Art Studio in 2018.
Before founding Melt Art Studio, Tammy spent years as an elementary school teacher, working with kindergarten and second-grade students. Although teaching was fulfilling, she made the decision to retire early to spend more time with her daughter. “I wanted to stay at home and be a mom,” she shared. However, like many who leave a busy career, Tammy found herself missing the sense of purpose and activity that teaching brought. So, she decided to explore a new passion: art.
What started as a hobby quickly grew into something much bigger. Tammy dove into glass art, challenging herself to reach new goals. “I made a goal for myself. I wanted to be in a gallery, and I met that goal,” she said, referring to her work displayed at Sarah Howell Gallery in Jonesboro. But after ten years of working with glass, the physical toll of the art form led Tammy to try something new: pottery. “It was like, ah, that’s what I love,” she explained.
In 2018, Tammy’s love for pottery and her desire to create a community space led her to open Melt Art Studio. The transition wasn’t without its challenges, especially in a small town like Searcy. “Usually you see these kinds of studios in bigger cities,” she noted, but she was determined to make it work. Tammy spent a year doing research, attending training in Texas, and visiting conventions to ensure she was prepared.
The goal behind Melt Art Studio was simple but powerful. Tammy wanted to provide a space for families and individuals to spend quality time together, away from the distractions of everyday life. “I thought, that’s perfect… a safe place where it’s always happy, good therapy, or just enjoying each other.” That vision has resonated with the community, and the studio quickly became a beloved spot for locals looking to express their creativity.
Melt Art Studio is not your typical pottery studio. While some might think pottery requires special skills, Tammy’s studio is designed to make art accessible to everyone. The shelves are filled with bisque and stoneware, ready for customers to choose and customize with their own designs. And for those who don’t consider themselves artists, Tammy has plenty of tools and techniques to help, from silk screens and patterns to traceable designs. “You don’t have to be an artist. You don’t have to be able to draw. We can pull things up, copy them, and trace it,” she shared.
One of the most popular options at the studio is stoneware, a durable and organic-looking type of pottery that’s microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe. “It’s a lot of fun and has that organic look,” Tammy explained. In addition to pottery painting, Melt Art Studio also offers clay classes where participants can create and fire their own pieces. “We just had a class making little ghosts for your table,” she said, excitedly mentioning an upcoming class where people can make their own pumpkins for the fall season.
Beyond individual art projects, the studio also hosts birthday parties, group events, and special workshops. From painting ornaments to creating mosaics, there’s always something new and exciting happening at Melt.
Melt Art Studio thrives on its wide variety of classes and events, catering to both adults and children. One of Tammy’s favorite annual events is Galentines, a fun gathering that she hosts every February 13th. “It’s a big one I always do,” she said, noting how much work goes into planning the themed events that the community has come to love.
The studio also runs kids’ camps during the summer, giving children a chance to express their creativity through pottery and other crafts. Tammy’s goal is to ensure there’s something for everyone, whether it’s a date night event for adults or a mommy-and-me pop-up for mothers and babies to create keepsake ornaments together. “We have something for everyone… and I love that,” she said.
Tammy’s creativity doesn’t stop at the events themselves. She takes the time to plan everything from the decor to the snacks, making sure each event is as special as possible. A recent Bridgerton-themed event featured custom-made silk screens with images and quotes from the show, along with a beautiful tablescape and a themed spread of food. “I usually go overboard on the food,” Tammy admitted with a laugh.
Even with all the success and growth Melt Art Studio has experienced, Tammy is constantly looking for new ways to improve and expand. From date night events to more clay classes, she’s always thinking of ways to offer fresh experiences to her customers. She’s also committed to making sure every visitor feels welcome, no matter their age or skill level. “We try to offer anybody that’s wanting to have a get-together… we just focus on their needs,” she emphasized.
Tammy’s passion for her work is clear, and the future looks bright for Melt Art Studio. Whether you’re a Searcy local or just passing through, Melt Art Studio is a must-visit for anyone looking to relax, get creative, and make lasting memories with friends and family.
Contact Melt Art Studio on their Facebook, Instagram, and phone number.
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