The Artmaking Space: Embracing Creativity for Wellbeing and Community
The Artmaking Space is a welcoming and inclusive studio where creativity becomes a pathway to wellbeing, connection, and self-expression. Our space provides a calm and accessible environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather to create, reflect, and restore. As we grow, we aim to bring the spirit of this studio beyond its walls through community outreach, pop-up events, and partnerships that share the power of art in healthcare and community settings.
MISSION
Our mission at The Artmaking Space is to foster a nurturing environment where individuals can explore their creativity as a means to promote mental and emotional wellness, and to cultivate a sense of belonging and understanding within our community.
VISION
Our vision is to be a catalyst for positive change by integrating art into diverse healthcare and community settings, enhancing the lives of individuals and families through creative expression, and promoting the value of art as a tool for healing and connection.
CORE VALUES
We believe that the act of making art is an essential form of self-care and self-discovery.
Our space welcomes all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Everyone deserves access to creative tools and encouragement.
We foster collaboration and shared experiences that support emotional connection and a sense of belonging.
We honor the individual journey of artmaking, valuing exploration, expression, and reflection over perfection.
We are rooted in the belief that creativity supports emotional and physical wellness in everyday life and times of challenge.
OUR STORY
Maria Tonelli Smith is a visual artist originally from St. Petersburg, FL. As an art director with over 15 years of experience at Panache Designs, she specialized in designing and producing large-scale holiday decor programs for shopping centers across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Beyond her work at Panache, Maria has contributed to several notable projects, including public murals for the Georgia Institute of Technology, the W Hotel in midtown Atlanta, All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL, the "Dolphins on Parade" initiative at the Georgia Aquarium and the "Chairish the Future" event for the Atlanta Furniture Bank.
Additionally, with a strong background in illustration, she creates custom artwork for various media and clients, bringing ideas to life through imaginative concept art and vibrant traditional watercolor paintings. Projects include children’s books, pet portraits, and business logos.
In 2019, she left her mark as a Piano Artist for Sing for Hope in New York. This transformative project sparked her exploration of how visual art can promote health and enhance individuals' wellbeing in medical and community settings, leading her to earn a Master’s degree in Arts in Medicine from the University of Florida. She is passionate about utilizing her expertise in art intervention and program development to promote community well-being and engagement through the transformative power of the arts.