Hi, I’m Nic — artist, educator, and founder of Karst Studio.
I created Karst because every child deserves a space filled with joy, freedom, and the safety to show up as their whole self.
As a former preschool teacher, I’ve witnessed how art can open doors—bridging communication, encouraging expression, and building trust—especially for neurodivergent children and those whose identities are too often overlooked.
Karst is more than an art studio. It’s a dynamic, heart-centered space for discovery, imagination, and unapologetic selfhood. We emphasize play, process-oriented creativity, and emotional development, inviting kids to follow their instincts, explore their inner worlds, and make delightfully messy masterpieces.
We deeply affirm LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC children and families, and we’ve shaped Karst to be an inclusive, affirming space where all are welcomed with care—regardless of learning style, background, or identity.
Here, we lift up bold thinking, make space for big emotions, and shine a light on diverse artistic voices. We value wonder over perfection, questions over answers, and every child’s journey as valid and beautiful.
At Karst, kids lead the way!
for the very first time, i am offering prints of my work—on behalf of my most important cause. help me cover some vet bills for Petunia’s surgery! 🦷
two ways to shop: message me here, or preferably browse prints in person @thekarststudio , located under Switchyards @ the Eastwood Village Shops. you can also check out all they have to offer the kids in our community and shop curated art supplies + goodies!
can’t wait for these creepy lil pieces to find their rightful homes! 💜😽🪥🖼️
Hey Parents!
This summer, we’re offering a special class for your little artist! We will dive into the incredible medium of water, one of the most playful and surprising tools in art! (Perfect for our Tennessee summers)
In this class, artist will discover how water can move, mix, drip, splash, swirl by making colors transform in unique ways.
Our focus will be on watercolor painting, wet-on-wet experiments, and creative play with brushes, droppers, and sprays, allowing the artists see how water brings pigments to life.
The details:
Ages 2-6
9:00 to 1:00 or 9:00 to 3:00
East Nashville
12 spots available
June - July
karststudio.com to enroll
🎨
Hooray! Looking for an after-school art experience that goes deeper than crafts? 🎨
Join Mr. Ryan on Monday or Wednesday from 4:00–6:00 PM for all things Doodle Guild!
✨ Ages 6–12
✨ Limited to 5 artists per session for individualized attention
✨ Cost: $50 per session
✨ Suggested supply fee: $25
✨ Sketchbook and pencils provided
✨ Snacks and water provided
Perfect for kids who love to draw, experiment, and build confidence through art. Spaces are limited.
DM to reserve your kiddos spot today!
Absolutely in awe of the community!
So many of you have applied and I’m thrilled to find the perfect fit for Karst. Thank you entirely, I’ll be going through applications today and will email y’all by end of day tomorrow.
If you have any questions please DM me.
Stay cosmic,
Nic
💖Will you be our Valentine? 💘💝
Please join us Saturday morning
2/14
From 10-11am.
@thekarststudio 1101 Chapel Ave
Street Parking or behind the building
There will be movement with @dancing_bones__ , art with @thekarststudio and a soundbath by me
This is a family friendly event! All ages!
Kids get to make art while grown ups relax!
You don’t have to have kids to attend.
There will be a suggested donation but any amount is alright with us, or none at all. We just want y’all there no matter your financial situation 💖💖💖💖💖💖
This weather has been tough. I know so many folks, myself included are still without power, and my heart truly goes out to y’all.
I’m opening the studio Thursday & Friday this week for anyone who needs a cozy place to land. Come create with Karst ✨
We’ll have relaxed art class, warm vibes, and a safe, welcoming space where you can drop your kiddos off for a few hours or for the day.
If you need a little normal, a little creativity, or just a soft place during a hard week, we’re here. 💜
✨🎉 KARST STUDIOS BIRTHDAY PARTY + GRAND RE-OPENING 🎉✨
We’re celebrating BIG and you’re invited! Come party with us from 12–4 PM for an afternoon of creative fun for all ages!
🖌️ Face painting
✨ Glitter fun
🧪 Slime making
📦 Cardboard building
🎨 Mural making
Activities will be happening on and off throughout the afternoon, so drop in anytime!
📍 1101 Chapel Avenue, 37206
👀 Look for the chalk mural and balloons out front!
Bring your friends, bring your creativity, and help us celebrate moving to east + another year of Karst Studios 💜
💫I’m Excited to be leading some creative movement for @sparkleheartsoundbaths sound bath over @shelbybottoms Nature Center 1:30-2:30pm THIS Saturday 1/18. @thekarststudio will have some fun art activities during the sound bath. ALL ages are welcome! Bring a mat or a blanket & come move & groove with us! Weeee!
✨ Part-Time Creative Support ✨
We’re looking for a creative, thoughtful support person to work with young children.
Must have:
- Experience in early childhood settings
- A neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach
- Out-of-the-box thinking and creativity
- Comfort adapting activities to individual needs and interests
This role is ideal for someone who values play, connection, and honoring each child’s unique way of being in the world.
✨ Hey fellow artist! ✨
Karst is officially re-opening and turning ONE! We’re throwing an open house to celebrate with our community, yay.
🕛 January 18th from 12–4 PM
🎨 Open house vibes — come as you please
🍓 Light refreshments, snacks & sweet treats
✨ Create, play, explore & enjoy total creative freedom
🎁 Plus… win a FREE class!
Drop in, hang out, get inspired, draw on our walls, make a masterpiece with your fellow artist and help us kick off this new chapter the Karst way. We can’t wait to welcome you back into our creative space.
#eastnashvilleartist #nashvillekids #thingstodonashville #kidsartstudio #neuroaffirming
