When WMAY found its way over to Dabble public art studio on the north-end of Springfield, we were all so surprised at what an inspiring and whimsical space that was created by co-founders Amanda Terry and Ashley Striplin.

The discussion we were able to have with Ashley was both interesting as well as enlightening to be sure, and the answers she provided to our questions were all simply brilliant as well; yet the establishment cannot be merely described through language.

“We currently offer Painting, Resin, Perler Beads and Fairy Gardens. We put a fun spin on painting by offering partner paintings and a 10 minute challenge, as well as the usual painting offered at other places. Both activities are great for anyone looking to build a connection. Partner paintings are great for anyone, from date night couples, to besties who want to chat and laugh over a glass of wine, to that Father son duo who need their hands to be busy before their thoughts can flow freely. The 10 minute challenge is a fun way to challenge painters. You and a partner begin with a canvas and every 10 minutes you switch and when you’re done, hopefully you have come up with two beautiful and unique paintings that come together as one, much like your experience at Dabble.

The other crafts are also just amazing to work with. Perler beads are perfect for getting your mind off whatever is bothering you. It takes a little concentration to situate them all. Resin is so satisfying and beautiful and fairy gardens and terrariums are very stress free and gives you something more natural to place in your home. Whatever you make at Dabble you can bet you leave with something you created that you can be proud of.” Ashley Striplin and Amanda Terry of Dabble

So – in the spirit of the same sort of expression that Dabble is trying to embrace – WMAY decided that another picture experience was in order; we’re taking you all to Dabble from the comfort of whatever location you currently find yourselves in!

While Dabble is more of an experience to be had, our virtual tour-through-pictures is about as close as one can come without leaving the couch!

Between the essay-interview and picture tour experience, you’ll be ready to properly decide if you’d like to go to the studio yourself with your mother, brother, sister, child, niece, nephew, date or spouse!

WMAY hopes that you enjoy our time at Dabble as much as we did, and think that you and those you care for might enjoy the experience yourselves!

  • When one arrives at Dabble, one recognizes a space that seems to have simply brilliantly burst into existence one day...

  • ...Perler Beads anyone?

  • The colors are as expansive as the rainbow and beyond!!

  • Oh where to begin?!

  • Easels have resin to work on, as well as wood "canvases" with which to express oneself!

  • Amanda Terry - Co-owner of Dabble public art studio on the north end of Springfield, Illinois - utilizing the wall paint dispenser.

  • The Paint Wall; like being at a candy shop but for painters and the like!

  • Dabble co-owner Ashley Striplin readies herself to dabble a bit at Dabble herself!

  • It does look like fun to press the paint dispensers, doesn't it?

  • Some of the work already created at Dabble; will yours be the next to find its way up on the wall and for sale?!

  • There is always enough space for budding artists, after all.

  • Art takes form in so many different ways...

  • ...but sometimes, you're just struck with the urge to express yourself, no matter how or in what manner!

  • Perler beads and painting are not the only means by which to enjoy Dabble with strangers or ones you brought with you though!

  • What secrets exist within the wooden storage drawers?

  • Why, only whatever one might be able to imagine!

  • Only little peaks; much of the fun of Dabble is finding and exploring it - alongside your art - yourself!

  • You can come alone and enjoy the environment in solitude, bring friends or family, or come to find folks who share similar passions as you hold so dearly!

  • After all, who knows what you might end up making when you spend a bit of time dabbling?

  • A bright idea is never too far away at Dabble! We thank Amanda Terry, Ashley Striplin, and the whole Dabble team so much for their time, thoughts, and determination!