Little Tree Art Studio

Tucked away in Avondale Estates, Little Tree Art Studios buzzes with creative energy. It’s not just a building. It’s the culmination of a dream envisioned by Marghe and Bob Means. They met in art school in the 80s, dreaming of a shared space for artists. Little Tree Art Studios is that dream realized. This 34,000-square-foot industrial building houses a vibrant community. Painters, sculptors, jewelers, and even a cosplay costume designer all create within its walls. A florist, a bookmaker, and a cello teacher add to the diverse mix. Down the hall, you might find someone crafting light installations or using 3D printers for prototypes. Little Tree Art Studios isn’t just about visual arts. Soundproofed band rehearsal rooms pulse with music. The Meanses’ journey to Little Tree Art Studios began in 1998. They purchased the building where Bob already leased space. The former owner offered them a deal they couldn’t refuse. Slowly, they transformed larger spaces into smaller studios. The vision unfolded organically. Marghe reflects, “We only realized what we had accomplished after we created it. It’s taken us years to get to this point.” Today, Little Tree Art Studios boasts over 50 studios, with a long waiting list. The community is multicultural and multigenerational. It includes recent art school graduates and artists enjoying their later years. Some tenants have gallery deals. Others create for therapeutic reasons. The surrounding Avondale Estates has also blossomed. Little Tree Art Studios is now nestled among breweries, shops, and restaurants. The Meanses are currently focusing on exterior renovations. A new roof, updated doors and windows, and a boardwalk with ramps are planned. They also envision a greenspace within the parking lot, a place for the community to gather. These improvements are possible thanks to Tandem Bank. The Meanses found a banker who understood their creative business. This partnership will be invaluable as they consider future growth. Their son, Taylor, also an artist, has purchased the building behind Little Tree Art Studios. With Tandem Bank’s help, he is expanding his parents’ vision. One dream fulfilled, and now they dream bigger.