After building a reputation as one of St. Pete’s most welcoming creative spaces, The Hive is officially opening the doors to its new home, and they’re doing it the only way that makes sense: with an all-day, community-centered clay celebration.
On Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., The Hive’s grand reopening at 2200 22nd Ave S invites beginners, seasoned artists, and curious neighbors alike to step in, get their hands dirty, and experience what community clay is all about.
ADVERTISEMENT
“Moving The Hive from 49th to 22nd was not easy. We moved thousands of pounds of equipment as a community and have made the new space our own,” says studio manager Ginny Brennan.
“The grand opening is an invitation to anyone curious about us to see the space and feel the freedom it’s granted us. This era of The Hive is its most collaborative, and I’m excited for everyone to see what we do in the space,” Brennan adds.
Morning: Clay and Coffee
The day kicks off at 10 am with a slower, grounding vibe. Expect free mini clay classes, live demos, and wellness offerings like guided meditation and yoga.
Hands-on highlights include:
- “Throwing off the hump” and large-scale pottery demos
- A behind-the-scenes look at a teacup hog kiln loading
- A chance to learn techniques from experienced local ceramicists
Food and drinks keep things flowing, with Somebody’s Coffee serving up caffeine. Known as a Black-owned third space rooted in activism and the arts, it’s a natural fit for The Hive’s mission. You’ll also find bites from Bowlz and Bunz, a Black-owned, family-run food truck bringing comfort food to the celebration.
Evening: Music and Makers
By late afternoon, the energy shifts into celebration mode. From 4-7:30 pm, the space transforms into a lively night market meets art party. Expect tacos, drinks, music, and a lineup of local vendors showcasing handmade goods and creative services.
Food and drink highlights include:
- St. Pete Cielo, a POC- and LGBTQ+-owned drink brand serving Latin-inspired beverages made with natural ingredients
- Tampa Red Tacos, delivering authentic Mexican street food favorites
Live music from WSAB brings a funk and neo-soul soundtrack to the evening. And browse vendors like Cupid’s Babytats (flash tattoos), Queer Expressions, and Longleaf Craftworks
Get Your Hands Dirty (For Free)
One of the biggest draws of the day is you don’t have to just watch, you can participate (for free!)
Throughout the evening, guests can:
- Try the pottery wheel with guided support
- Experiment with handbuilding techniques
- Contribute to a collaborative slab project
- Explore sgraffito (a carving technique that reveals layered designs)
Words from the Team
“The new building has truly revitalized passion here at the hive. After the momentous project of moving an entire pottery studio piece by piece, we are reopening with an explosion of color, creativity, and community connection,” says studio manager Dakota-Joan Parkinson.
“I love having a community where I can be myself. There is such a high level of encouragement and support from the staff as well as fellow members. The Hive is one of my favorite safe spaces,” says studio member Michelle S.
“To watch a true community come together to create a space where creativity is alive and thriving is truly beautiful. The Hive has become my second home, and each time I come to work, I can find a happy nook and cranny, inside or out, among other artists or alone, to sit and get lost in clay. I’m so grateful,” says studio member Jen P.
The Hive Community Clay Grand Reopening
New address: 2200 22nd Ave S
Saturday, May 2
10 am – 7:30 pm
ADVERTISEMENT
