Creating a Community Through Art: An Interview with Jessica Mack of Paint Your Place

Jessica Mack, founder of Paint Your Place, has spent nearly two decades cultivating a welcoming space where children and adults can express themselves through art. From humble beginnings painting murals to running seasonal art camps, Jessica’s journey is a testament to creativity, community, and passion. In this exclusive interview, Jessica shares the story behind her business, the impact it has made, and her hopes for the future.

The Story Behind Paint Your Place

Q: What inspired you to start Paint Your Place, and how did the concept come together?

Jessica: Starting this business happened so organically. While pregnant with twins and on bed rest, I ignored doctor’s orders and painted a mural in their nursery. When people saw the mural, they hired me to paint in their homes. Friends’ homes became friends-of-friends’ homes, and so on. The business is called “Paint Your Place” because it started as mural work. This eventually grew into painting on canvas, furniture, holiday workshops, and “Mom Workshops” (long before paint-and-sips were a thing). Eleven years ago, I outgrew my home and moved into my first studio, where Paint Your Place became what it is today.

Seasonal Inspiration and Personal Touch

Q: How do you decide on the themes or projects for each season’s art camps?

Jessica: I pull inspiration from the Toledo Museum of Art (my other job), current trends, news, pop culture, and seasonal themes like holidays and heritage months. After 37 art camps, I’ve never repeated a project!

Q: What sets Paint Your Place apart from other art programs in the Toledo and Maumee area?

Jessica: The answer is me. Paint Your Place is my fifth child. I’ve poured 18 years of hard work and pride into this business, which has always been a one-woman show. I create a warm and welcoming space for everyone, making sure every class is thoughtfully planned.

Art Camps for Kids

Q: What age groups are your kids’ art camps designed for, and how do you tailor projects to different ages?

Jessica: My camps are designed for kids aged 5–13. Each project is adaptable, so younger kids can keep it simple while older kids can explore more creativity and expression. It’s all about finding each child’s strengths and tailoring the experience to them.

Q: Have you seen kids develop confidence or skills through your camps? Any success stories you can share?

Jessica: So many! One that stands out is “S,” a shy first-grader who blossomed in camp. She transformed into a confident, happy child in the studio and even gave a speech in front of 100 people at an art show. Watching her grow has been one of my proudest moments.

Art Camps for Adults

Q: What can adults expect at your art camps?

Jessica: Adults can expect a fun, open space to create at their own pace. The studio often feels like a therapy session with a side of art.

Q: How do you encourage creativity in adults?

Jessica: Adults are harder to instruct because they often want their work to be “perfect.” I channel my inner Bob Ross and remind them that accidents make art great. Once they embrace the calming, therapeutic aspects of art, it’s rewarding to see them relax and enjoy the process.

Community Impact and Future Growth

Q: How has Paint Your Place impacted the Toledo and Maumee communities?

Jessica: Before COVID, Paint Your Place was my full-time job. I worked with schools, daycares, senior communities, and more. Even now, as the Community Outreach Manager at the Toledo Museum of Art, I continue to bring free art to the community, extending my reach beyond my studio.

Q: Are there plans to expand your offerings in the future?

Jessica: I’d love to bring back Teen Art Club as kids age out of my current programs. Once my kids are older, I hope to return to my original business model with more community outreach.

Personal Insights and Memorable Moments

Q: What’s your favorite type of art project to work on with your campers?

Jessica: Mixed media, 3D, and sculpture projects are always favorites. I’m competitive by nature and always push myself to create something better than last year.

Q: What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had since starting Paint Your Place?

Jessica: Both grand openings of my studios stand out. The second studio opened during COVID, and 250 people came to support me. It was overwhelming in the best way.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to start a similar art-focused business?

Jessica: Start small and let the business form itself. Running a small business is like running a marathon—mile by mile. The work is hard, but the rewards are worth it.

Looking Ahead

With her dedication and passion for art and community, Jessica Mack continues to make Paint Your Place a cherished space for creativity in the 419. Whether you’re a child discovering your artistic voice or an adult rediscovering the joy of creating, Jessica’s studio welcomes everyone to find their place in art.