Making a living spreading joy

“How can we serve our community and how can we bring joy to others?”
Longtime Colorado residents Stephanie and Matt Mendrala wanted to give back to their community in a way that resonated with their life experiences. They discovered they could make a living spreading joy.

Life has a way of tenderizing people. After experiencing the shooting at STEM in Highlands Ranch in 2019, Stephanie wanted to focus on healing transformed through artwork.
“Everyone can create. Everyone can be an artist,” said Stephanie. She was determined to utilize the skills that go into “seeing others, understanding others, making others feel respected, valued and safe.”

Knowing scientifically that art changes your mood, wanting to create a community space, and driven by their purpose to serve others, she and Matt knew that opening an art studio was a perfect fit.

After being contacted by a franchisee two years ago, the couple opened their art studio, Hawaii Fluid Art, located at 3855 Ambrosia Street in Castle Rock, in May.
Unlike oil painting, watercolor or acrylics, fluid art is a liquid pouring medium that allows anyone of any age or skill level to create a masterpiece. The brainchild of founder Maya Ratcliff, what started as a hobby during the pandemic became a place of community, healing and connectedness. Maya’s first clients were people with disabilities such as brain injuries who enjoyed the therapeutic benefits of creating artwork.

Being an educator with the Douglas County School District, Stephanie felt accessibility was a priority which is why they chose the Castle Rock location.
Driven by his sense of curiosity and his determination to grow as a person, Matt drew from the fields of psychology and corporate management to undertake this new business endeavor. Matt wanted “others to find the joy that comes from creating art, to be an artist themselves.”

Hawaii Fluid Art is about creativity, relaxation and fun. From date nights to group classes, private events and birthday parties to an eight-week homeschool art class, an instructor guides you with techniques, color choices and support to create art that expresses your imagination. The process is hands-on and does not require paintbrush precision.

The house rules at Hawaii Fluid Art are: (1) be kind to yourself and others, (2) make a mess, (3) expect the unexpected, (4) trust the process, and (5) never turn down glitter. Classes are held hourly so guests can “feel the joy, release any stress and partake in good vibes,” said Matt.

With 10 different types of classes to discover your artistic flair, there is something for every level of interest.

In addition to fluid art classes, the Resin Classes dive into the world of resin art with options like creating tumblers and beach scenes. The Glass Painting class allows you to create stunning designs on glass surfaces like a wine glass. The Patch Party class lets you customize hats with unique patches. A favorite among customers is the Alcohol Ink class and the Charcuterie Board and Wine Glasses class. Newly introduced classes include Fluid Art Skateboard and Fluid Art Snowboard where customers can bring in their own boards and add custom designs with fluid art techniques.

Stephanie and Matt want to make others feel seen, heard and understood.

“To be able to understand people and be present for them in their experience –that is the most important thing in the world,” said Matt.
The Mendrala’s art studio strives to ensure that anyone walking in feels warm and welcomed, and above all, the studio instills a sense of healing for everyone who comes through the doors. The studio is filled with bright neon signs, unique canvases, and a retail gallery featuring coffee beans, sweet treats, handmade candles, jewelry, and other one-of-a-kind works of art from local artists.

 

Hawaii Fluid Art is not just about mastering a set of techniques; its mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit, one creation at a time. For Stephanie and Matt, it is a way of life. They shine the brightness of their care on people and make them feel bigger, deeper and respected.
To book a class or learn more, visit hawaiifluidart.com.

Hawaii Fluid Art: 3855 Ambrosia St. Suite 101,
Castle Rock, CO 80109
(720) 513-9674
hawaiifluidart.com/castle-rock-co

By ViVi Somphon