Nakama, meaning “friend that’s like family,” welcomes everyone into a studio space with educational goals focused around family and supporting others. With a plethora of classes, events and flea markets, Nakama Studio prides itself on community inclusion and education through new experiences.
Located in Batavia, the child-centric studio became a passion for local mama and one-woman-show, Julie Martin. Julie’s devotion to showcasing other makers and talents is unmatched; several classes offered at Nakama bring in a diverse group of teachers and artists.
Still searching for the perfect summer camp to send the kiddos off to? Nakama Studio offers camps for all ages. Camps include Harry Potter, Animals + Art, Jewelry Design, Tie Dye, Build Your Own Ukulele and so much more! Learning and art based, your kiddo will leave camp learning something new.
Classes don’t stop with just the kiddos. Nakama encourages the entire community, any age, to drop in for one time or consecutive classes. From Everything Tomato’s, Beekeeping Workshop, Yoga, Intro to Resin, glass etching, sewing and a True Crime book club. Class offerings are added often! If you have a hidden talent you’d like to share with others, Nakama accepts instructors’ inquiries year-round.
Markets are hosted throughout the year and provide a space for local vendors to showcase their art and products, including kids! With space for up to 6 children’s booths, your budding entrepreneur is welcome at Nakama. If your kiddo has a talent for polymer clay jewelry, seed paper making or art of any kind, consider a booth at the Batavia Makers Mart, with no booth fees under 18!
Nakama studio provides party packages for birthdays, up to ten kids included. With several themes to choose from, the studio is yours for up to two hours and includes an activity based on theme and simple decor. Little ones can choose from Minecraft, unicorn, construction, mermaid, trains, Pokémon and dozens more themes. Private event studio rentals are also available hourly.
Julie’s Nakama Studio philosophy of “a safe space to learn and grow” started with her desire to bring together adults, kids and families. With homeschooling her own children in mind, it was clear to see how many new learning experiences we miss out on in our busy schedules. To continue fostering the love of the enrichment studio, Julie welcomes feedback and planning from anyone needing a safe space to grow.
With a degree in Nutrition but a love for creating, Julie’s spark started while supporting other Mamas with handmade breast milk and resin jewelry. Available for purchase anytime in the studio shop or take a resin jewelry class for a hands-on way to create your own resin pieces! Each class at Nakama Studio is handpicked with the best-of-the-best makers, instructors and students.