YBOR CITY, Fla. — The moment clay meets wheel is when the creative juices start flowing and artists can create something magical. 

It’s some of that magic that DRIP Ybor owner Jonathan Scanlon looked to add to Ybor City’s unique character when he opened the wildly immersive art studio in 2019.

The meaning of the name, which stands for Do Really Inspirational Projects, says it all.

The studio gives artists a place to create and offers hands-on tactile classes in everything from ceramic painting to clay building, and, of course, what it’s known for — throwing on the wheel to create pottery vessels.

“I love teaching classes,” Scanlon says. “It's my favorite part. Learning how to make it is one thing, but being able to teach kids and adults is really something beautiful." 

Scanlon grew up in New York, where he says his passion for the arts grew. He says his mother gave him the opportunity to learn the art form there. He eventually opened several studios in New Jersey before moving his family to Florida and opening DRIP Ybor. 

“When we were opening, we got to see there was a dramatic change," Scanlon says. "The urban feel wasn't necessarily leaving, but growing up in a way, and when we opened, I really felt like we were able to offer more than just the bars you see around town.”

After several years, the business is so established in the community that Scanlon plans to expand from the original studio and open another one several blocks away.

Scanlon says he hopes his businesses and others that come to the historic streets of Ybor City will continue to help revitalize the area and provide a fun and inspiring place for people to gather and create. 

“Just seeing how much the city wanted us here and still does, it really makes me so proud of this place," Scanlon says. 

DRIP Ybor is closed on Sundays but is open the rest of the week. Hours vary, so check its website for the schedule for upcoming classes and events.