History
Mimosa’s doors opened in 2001, welcoming everyone, no matter what skill level, to experience the fun of painting your own pottery. The studio is a place where both kids and adults discover the joy and pride of painting something all their own. Pottery, paint, instruction, and friendly personal attention is provided.
Come see our wide range of projects — ceramic tile coasters, picture frames, coffee mugs, plates, bowls, pet dishes, piggy banks, vases, bird feeders, wall murals and more!
“Mimosa Studios is named in memory of my grandmother, Jessie Collins, or as everyone who knew and loved her, Nannee. Although primarily a silk-screen artist, Nannee was an artist of many mediums. She was always exploring new ideas with metals, fabric, bamboo and leaves.
When we were young, my sister Collin and I spent our summers with our grandparents, Nannee and Papaw, in Dallas, Texas. Papaw had built a small studio on their property, and it was here that we spent most of our time, learning to paint and explore and laugh at our mistakes.
It was hot in Texas, but the studio was shaded by a huge Mimosa tree, creating fragrant shadows as we worked among the smells of oil, thinner, and paint. These are some of my most profound memories, where I first learned the joy of creating art among others. I take many life lessons from this studio, all of them under the protective shade of that majestic Mimosa tree. ” ~ Austin Raglione
Austin Raglione
Studio Owner
After a 20 year career in politics, studio owner Austin Raglione opened her pottery painting studio on Alberta Street in November 2001. She wanted to share her love of painting pottery and the fun of making art with others.
Austin works during the week for the City of Portland running the Service Coordination Team, a program to help long term homeless drug addicts get treatment.
Austin is frequently in the studio on weekends where she catches up with customers and works on her own creations. Austin’s biggest joy is watching customers relax and have fun, getting to know fellow painters, and experiencing the joy of creating together.
Allison Faherty
Studio Manager
After receiving her degree from the University of North Texas, Allison Faherty moved to Portland where she obtained her Master’s in Education from Portland State University.
She was the head coach for the Wilson High School Speech and Debate team, and an educational tutor for many kids across the metro area. In her first year as the WHS coach she lead her team to a berth at state, taking home 3 awards. Weekend hobbies include half-marathons, various art projects and enjoying the great Northwest.