Today we’d like to introduce you to Terri Ingraham.
Terri, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I had founded a non-profit and, after seven years, found myself feeling burned out and in a liminal space of being unsure of what I wanted to do next. Over twenty-five years ago, when my oldest child was in preschool, I was introduced to process art, and the idea of opening a process art studio stayed with me all of those years. With my husband’s encouragement to follow what truly makes me happy, I decided to pursue that long-held passion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all. I came into this with no formal business experience, and I’ve had to grow into so many skills along the way. It’s definitely been a learning curve. Even the little things like realizing how much a sign for the studio costs, figuring out payroll, or managing inventory were things I had never thought about before.
Years ago, I took a course taught by Bob Goff where he talked about ‘flying the plane while building it,’ and that has truly been my experience. I’ve learned by doing, figuring things out in real time, and continuing to move forward even when I don’t have all the answers yet.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Create Studio ATX?
Create Studio ATX is a process art studio and creative space in Austin designed to help people step away from screens and reconnect with creativity in a meaningful, hands-on way. We offer open studio time, camps for kids, workshops for all ages, parties, and a thoughtfully curated retail shop filled with art supplies, stationery goods, and creative tools.
What we specialize in is process art, focusing on the experience of creating rather than the outcome. There’s no pressure to make something “perfect.” Instead, we create an environment where both kids and adults can explore, experiment, and express themselves freely.
What sets us apart is the feeling people have when they walk in. It’s light-filled, welcoming, and intentionally designed to feel whimsical and inspiring but not overwhelming. We’ve built a space where creativity feels accessible to everyone, whether you consider yourself “artistic” or not.
I’m especially proud of the brand we’ve created- one that values slowing down, working with your hands, and creating real, tangible things in a world that’s increasingly digital. We’re not just offering activities; we’re offering an experience and a mindset shift.
What I want people to know is that Create is for everyone. You don’t need a specific skill set. You just need a willingness to show up and create.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Opening Create has been one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken. I stepped into it without a traditional business background, signed a significant lease, and built something that relies on people choosing to walk through the door every day.
There are definitely moments where that feels daunting. But for me, the bigger risk would have been not doing it and ignoring something I felt called to create and always wondering ‘what if.’
I’ve learned that risk isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about being willing to figure it out as you go, to adapt, and the ultimately trust that you’ll grow into whatever is required.
Pricing:
- $25 for a two hour Open Studio session
Contact Info:
- Website: https://create-studioatx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/createstudioatx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createstudioatx
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@createstudioatx
Image Credits
Terri Ingraham & Ella Ingraham
