Basquiat ain’t got nothing on us!

Sep 12

Right before Covid hit, the Shapely team visited Oliloli paint studio in Forest Hills NYC. Upon arrival, we quickly realized how versatile this experience both was and could be. Our experience was amazing, we walked in and was respectfully pointed to the hand washing section. We were then given a table at least 10 feet away from anyone else. They took extra safety measures due to COVID so we were not allowed to touch the pieces until we decided on what we were going to paint. Everything was clearly labeled and the visual aesthetics were picture worthy.

Step 1: You choose an item to paint.

They have a plethora of items however I did feel as if they didn’t have enough Afrocentric related items. I did improvise and was able to find something that was reflective of my culture using their various paint options.

Step 2: Grab your brushes.

We were each provided with some staple brushes, all the same size and same amount. They did have specialty brushes that you could grab as needed.

Step 3: Paint it up!

We were provided with staple colors. If we wanted a specialty color, we could use glazes from one of the glaze walls. You have to use 2-3 coats of paint to get a nice saturated and even application.

Step 4: You leave, they fire.

It took us a bit of time to receive ours as the laws in NYC were constantly changing regarding occupancy. I would like to note that they were very responsive to our inquiries and our items were kept safe and sound.

The Process

Sadly, Covid shut a lot of indoor experiences down. Don’t be dismayed, they are still in business however the experience is a tad bit different or should we say a tad bit safer. Oliloli studio is committed to protecting the health and safety of their employees, customers, and communities.

Oliloli studio is currently closed for walk-ins and parties to help slow the spread of COVID-19. They are offering pottery to-go kits for purchase online through their website with safe, contactless pick-up and drop-off at Oliloli studio.

How it Works

Purchase your pottery to-go kit online and they will have it ready for you to pick-up at the studio. Please allow 24 hours to process your order. They are a small team following strict safety precautions as they assemble To-Go-Kits and process pottery.

Your To-Go-Kit includes everything you need: your pottery piece, glaze, two brushes, instructions, and a firing form. You can purchase additional glaze separately online. All purchases must be made online to minimize person-to-person contact. Oliloli studio is not able to process transactions at the studio.

Paint your pottery at home. When finished painting, allow the glaze to dry, carefully wrap-up your pottery, and place it in the bag or box. Be sure to include your completed firing form. Drop-off your pottery at Oliloli. They will clear glaze and fire your pottery in their kilns. Allow two weeks from the drop-off date for your pottery to be ready for pick-up. Visit olilolistudio.com and don’t forget to let them know you found them on Shapely.