Creativity Finds a New Home in Art Studios on 2
Some artists need silence. Others need space. Most just need a place to experiment, focus, and make without asking for permission.
On the second floor of MadJax, that place exists.
The Art Studios on 2 were created for the painter who only finds time after work. The woodturner who has outgrown their garage. The recent grad who’s ready to take themselves seriously. Whether you’re deep into your craft or just a weekend dabbler, the studios offer space to grow at your own pace, alongside others doing the same.
“We’re responding directly to what artists in our community have asked for - affordable, flexible space to create,” said Carly Acree-King, Executive Director of Madjax. “This launch marks an exciting milestone as we grow a more connected and collaborative maker community in downtown Muncie.”
What You’ll Find Upstairs
Step into the second floor and you’ll find five private studios and a sunlit shared drop-in space. It’s simple and low-barrier by design, filled with natural light, flexible workstations, and storage for weekly users.
But what really makes the studios come alive are the people inside.
For Annette Chalfant, the space offers focus she didn’t even realize she was missing. She and her husband, Josh, now have a dedicated spot to explore their creativity. “This is a place where I can focus on my art,” she said. “It helps to have a space where I can bounce ideas around.”
Jason Robinson, a woodturner who shapes bowls and plates by hand, says the space offers more than tools. “Having a private studio means I have everything I need to see my vision take shape in one place,” he said. “But more powerful than that is the camaraderie. The creative energy is contagious.”
The balance of solitude and connection is what makes the Art Studios on 2 uniquely MadJax. Each space supports the maker, the explorer, or the entrepreneur.
A Launchpad for What’s Next
Emily Kay, a Muncie native and recent Ball State grad, describes her studio as both refuge and runway.
“For years, my studio was my bedroom. To have that extend into another area feels central. It’s about livelihood,” she shared. “MadJax brings together opportunities, people, and creative communities under one roof. It feels like a launchpad.”
Like many who’ve chosen to stay and create in Muncie, Emily is using her space to not just make art, but make sense of where she is and where she’s headed. “I’m still growing in my creative practices and endeavors,” she said. “To use this space as not only a meeting point for myself but to meet others, that’s why I chose a private studio.”
How You Can Be Part of It
The Art Studios on 2 were designed to be accessible and adaptable. You don’t have to be a full-time artist to belong here. You just need a spark and the desire to follow it.
MadJax Maker Space Members can add drop-in access to the shared studio for $50/month.
Weekly access is available to the public for $25/week.
Whether you’re testing an idea, returning to a medium you’ve missed, or ready to claim a space of your own, you’ll find a community that’s rooting for your next step.
You’re Invited: First Thursday Open House
Thursday, August 7 | 5:00–8:00 PM
Second Floor, MadJax | 515 E Main Street, Muncie
Come explore the Art Studios on 2 during Downtown Muncie’s First Thursday! You’ll have the chance to tour the drop-in studio, meet some of our resident makers, and learn more about how to get involved.
Come Make With Us
MadJax is more than a building. It’s 80,000 square feet of possibility and the Art Studios on 2 are a vital part of that.
As Jason put it, “I came to MadJax for the tools. I stayed for the community.”
Want to see it for yourself? Visit madjax.org/maker-space or reach out to carly@madjax.org to learn more.
