A new arts-and-crafts studio in central Athens is drawing packed crowds by blending creativity, pop culture and community, tapping into a growing demand for low-pressure social spaces focused on relaxation and connection. Hearts and Crafts Studio, which opened in July 2025 in the Koukaki neighborhood, was founded by mother-and-daughter duo Chara Katsari and Kristy Perri. Inspired by popular “paint-and-wine” studios common in Scandinavia, the space offers three-hour workshops built around handicrafts, conversation and shared experiences — complete with snacks and drinks. “We want to offer a safe space for people who are looking for a creative escape from everyday life,” Katsari and Perri said. “A place full of optimism, color, inclusion and good energy.” The idea grew out of a difficult period in Perri’s life early last year, when she began attending creative workshops around Athens as a form of emotional release. While she enjoyed the atmosphere, she felt something was missing. A casual conversation with her mother — a kindergarten teacher with more than 30 years of experience — turned into a plan to create their own space. The result is a studio that hosts weekly workshops inspired by pop culture and social media trends, designed for people of all skill levels. Early events focused on themed coloring sessions tied to artists and shows such as Taylor Swift, “Gilmore Girls” and the film “Wicked.” Since then, offerings have expanded to canvas painting, holiday crafts, snow globes, wine-glass painting and even edible workshops where participants decorate miniature cookie houses. Some of the studio’s most popular events have sold out quickly, including trivia nights based on hit TV series such as “Friends” and the Greek show “Sto Para Pente.” A vision board workshop for the new year and additional themed trivia nights are planned this month. The response has exceeded expectations, the founders said. While Hearts and Crafts began as a passion project rather than a primary source of income, most workshops now sell out, with many visitors returning regularly and bringing friends. “The space completely transforms from event to event — from a Taylor Swift party to an impromptu book club or mini pastry lab,” they said. “What we hear again and again is how much people need meaningful communication and a sense of safety outside their homes.” Participation is handled online, with workshops announced on social media at least two weeks in advance and registration available through the studio’s website. As Athens continues to see new forms of community-driven culture emerge, Hearts and Crafts has quickly established itself as a small but vibrant hub — proof that creativity, when shared, can be as much about connection as it is about art. By Katerina Poulopoulou Διαβάστε περισσότερα στο iefimerida.gr