Locally owned splatter painting studio proves arts and crafts aren't just for kids
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Our recent visit to Splatter was a welcome escape from the rainy December weather. Photo: Courtesy of Splatter Charlotte
Splatter Charlotte is a locally owned DIY painting studio in Optimist Park.
Why it matters: If the cold has you searching for indoor activities, Splatter Charlotte might be your answer.
The vibe: Splatter Charlotte is where adults, regardless of their artistic background, have full creative control. Think: Date nights, birthdays, team outings — anyone looking for a creative outlet who doesn't mind getting a little messy.
- While it's open to ages 10 and up, the experience is designed with adults in mind.
How it works: Sessions are one hour long, during which you'll get to paint your own 30in x 40in canvas.
- You're given primary colors (red, blue, yellow) and white as a base to alter the shade. You'll add some water and then splatter away by throwing paint underhand at the canvas.
- Pro tip: Wear something you don't mind getting paint on.
What to expect: The team records your session (hello, slow-motion paint throws!) and sends you the videos and photos afterward.
- You can also request the team to make a personalized playlist ahead of your appointment (we went for the Wicked soundtrack, of course).
- Once your masterpiece dries, they'll deliver it to you.
Flashback: Owner Tim Edwards, who grew up in nearby Waxhaw, began Splatter with a makeshift setup in a friend's backyard in 2021.
" I was like, why doesn't everybody do this? And then I realized it was because they weren't gonna hang up tarps in their apartment — there's a security deposit. So I thought, 'What if I give people the infrastructure? Then they could make something that they love.'"
Since then, Edwards has held temporary versions of Splatter around Charlotte, including nine months inside the Charlotte Art League on Raleigh St., before opening the Optimist Park studio just over a year ago.
What's next: Edwards says he plans to expand Splatter to other North Carolina cities, like Raleigh, Asheville and Greensboro.
If you go: Sessions are $125 for up to two people (more painters can be added for an additional fee). All paint and materials are included.
- Reservations are required.
Stop by: 2315 N Davidson St (Suite 100), in the same building as Urban District Market and MADabolic NoDa.
