Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Scardino.
Hi Amber, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started teaching process art out of my garage and courtyard in 2013 when my boys were young. I hosted weekly classes, camps, birthday parties, and summer camps. It was very important to me that the kids immerse themselves into their artwork, learn through messy play and really enjoy the process. Word spread and we were quickly at capacity and remained so for the next several years. In 2018 I moved out of my garage and into a larger dedicated studio on Brodie Lane. With the added space, we were able to offer a wider variety of creative opportunities for all ages. As my own boys grew, I started adding more hands-on learning experiences to their art practices, hence the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) focus. I co-authored a STEAM Kids book series with some blogger friends promoting STEAM activities for kids. When Covid hit and I temporarily shut down the studio, I found that caring for our animals was the most therapeutic thing for all of us. This is when I started adding more furry friends to the Figment family to help promote empathy and responsibility on our mini “farm”. I feel very lucky that I was able to start something and let it evolve as I watched my own children and students grow.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Covid was a shock and created many challenges for our small business, as it did for many others. We have had to create policies and procedures along the way. We have made our groups smaller and more consistent, which feels safe, but is not great financially. For a year, my boys along with five other children were in a learning pod that we created at Figment while I worked. One of our “Covid pivots” was buying an Airstream trailer that has acted as a studio on wheels where we can bring creative projects to small groups and host small birthday parties. As things seem to return to normal, it is still something we deal with on a daily basis.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a mother and creative guide. I specialize in process art and learning through play with the littles and focus on hands on learning and STEAM education as my students grow with the program. I provide children with a creative space to express themselves artistically. I am reminded daily how special Figment is to so many, with the kid’s laughter and the joy that fills Figment.
How do you think about happiness?
I am happy seeing the joy of what we have created brings to people. The animals that we care for at Figment bring me great joy. It is impossible to feel sad when goats are frolicking and you get to cuddle with a pig.
Contact Info:
- Email: figmentfrontdesk@gmail.com
- Website: https://figmentcreativelabs.com
- Instagram: @figmentcreative
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/figmentcreative
- Twitter: @figmentaustin
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/figment-creative-labs-childrens-art-classes-austin
