A workspace designed for play and possibility

Stephanie Pruitt-Gaines has opened the Creativity Bar, a workspace designed to combine play, art, and office space for its members. “Welcome to the Creativity Bar,” Pruitt-Gaines said, welcoming visitors to the new venture. She said she wants to help shape the future of those who visit.

Pruitt-Gaines, who described herself as someone who has always loved coloring books, said the space feels like “walking through a coloring book.” The Creativity Bar functions as part playroom, part art studio, and part office. “Our members can come, drop in any time and make stuff,” she said. She added that to come up with the next great idea, “you’ve got to have some playfulness and creativity.”

The design: outlined in black

Every inch of the space is outlined in black. Pruitt-Gaines explained that the lines intentionally play with the eyes. “All of these little lines really intentionally play with your eyes and your mind wants to fill them in. And so part of what I hope this space does is people walk in and feel a sense of possibility,” she said.

Healthy aging benefits

Aging-well coach and Aging Untold expert Katherine Ambrose said creativity and play support healthy aging. “Staying curious and making things keeps the brain engaged, it boosts the mood and as we age, it can help prevent isolation,” Ambrose said.

Ambrose said the benefit extends beyond the art itself. “When you create alongside other people, you build purpose and community, which is a huge predictor of healthy aging,” she said.

Members share their experience

Founding members Dawn Cornelius, CEO of The Cornelius Group, and Leigh Patton, a small business owner, have attended several workshops at the Creativity Bar. “I just feel better, and I am better when I come here,” Cornelius said. Patton echoed the sentiment: “Community and creativity, it doesn’t have to be difficult. You can actually just walk in the door.”