When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Bad Dog Arts
Why Bad Dog Arts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bad Dog Arts is a nonprofit organization located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, offering a vibrant and safe environment where people of all ages can engage in creative arts. Founded in 1997 by artists Michael Moonbird and Victoria Lyons, it began as small art classes in their apartment and has since blossomed into a well-established institution known for nurturing artistic talents. The organization provides programs both in its studio and in schools, partnering with various community centers, libraries, and businesses to extend its reach. Activities include sculpting, collage, painting, and drawing, aimed at fostering confidence and artistic growth. Bad Dog Arts celebrates over 25 years of community impact, emphasizing collaboration and inclusivity while creating a welcoming space for artistic expression. Its founders themselves continue to contribute to the local art scene through public art installations and educational projects involving students and artists alike, enriching the cultural fabric of Salt Lake City.
Here's what people think of Bad Dog Arts
As of recent, Bad Dog Arts holds a 5-star rating based on 7 reviews.
Reviews of Bad Dog Arts highlight an overwhelmingly positive experience, reflected in a perfect 5.0 rating from users. Customers repeatedly praise the organization's welcoming atmosphere and the enthusiasm of the staff, especially founders Michael Moonbird and Victoria Lyons, for creating such a supportive environment for creatives. Positive reviews mention the quality of the programs, the opportunity for participants of all ages to explore diverse art forms, and the inspiring community vibe that motivates artistic growth. On the other hand, there are very few or no notable negative remarks, indicating high satisfaction with the organization's offerings and execution. The consensus among reviewers is that Bad Dog Arts is a treasure in the Salt Lake City art community, valued for its commitment to accessibility and creative empowerment for artists from all walks of life. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong endorsement for those seeking a trustworthy and enriching place to cultivate their artistic skills.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Elizabeth
Bad Dog Arts is incredibly talented and amazing! My 7-year-old had a fantastic time at their spring art camp. Each day, he came home happy and eager to return. The art show at the end of the week was adorable and it was so fun to see the many MANY art projects they worked so hard on during the week! It was impressive. It's such a creative and fun environment for kids to learn and play, and the teachers are so encouraging and kind with the kids. We've already booked a summer camp with them- we can't wait to see what wonderful new experiences and creations await!
Heather Higgins
I love Bad Dog Arts and highly recommend them on several levels! I have volunteered for them during their in school and summer break camps...I have taken adult art classes from them...I have had them teach art classes for my friends... and used them for team building in a professional setting...each time they have been amazing! From the variety of art they teach, to the talent of the teachers and staff, to the fun, creative atmosphere they create and encourage - Bad Dog Arts is top notch! That their prices are more than reasonable and their mission aligns with my heart is icing on the cake!
Lisa Ward
My son has been at a Bad Dog camp this week, and it's been an exceptional experience all-around. He has been so excited to go every day and doesn't want to leave when I pick him up. The teachers are professional and great with kids. He's learned a lot and had so much fun with the art projects. Bad Dog Arts is a gem in the SLC summer camp scene!
Raine Welch
My boys have attended both art camps and art classes at Bad Dog Arts. This experience has enriched their lives, not just by teaching them art, but also by helping them to build their confidence and self esteem. The staff are amazing!! They are so friendly and kind, and they helped my boys to really express themselves creatively through the art projects. The projects they come up with use all kinds of mediums, so the kids get to find out what they're good at. They choose themes that are so fun, like star wars and where the wild things are. At the end of the art class the kids get to do a real art show where they display everything they've created throughout the class for their families to see. It was so neat to see how proud each kid was, and to hear them tell you the different inspirations behind each piece. I would absolutely recommend Bad Dog Arts! They do also have classes for adults, which I haven't attended (yet), but they sound awesome too.
Shaniya Baird
My daughter loved her week of camp at bad dog. She came home with a huge smile everyday, and brought home some amazing artwork at the end of the week. We cant wait to do more camps here.
How to reach Bad Dog Arts
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Website: None
Why Bad Dog Arts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bad Dog Arts with your friends? Because it offers a uniquely vibrant and welcoming space where creativity flourishes among people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are looking to reconnect with old friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply share quality time with family, Bad Dog Arts provides an inspiring environment that encourages imagination, collaboration, and fun. This is not just another art studio or community center; it is a nonprofit hub in downtown Salt Lake City designed to nurture confidence and artistic expression through hands-on activities, making it perfect for group meetups. The positive energy generated by the studios, combined with supportive staff passionate about creative growth, fosters an atmosphere where every participant feels encouraged to explore and create. Whether your group is made up of art novices, experienced artists, children, or adults, Bad Dog Arts caters to all with thoughtfully designed programs, making your gathering more meaningful and memorable than any typical outing.
What activities can you enjoy at Bad Dog Arts?
Bad Dog Arts hosts a comprehensive range of activities centered on artistic exploration, suitable for all ages and skill levels. You and your friends can dive into pottery, ceramics, glasswork, drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and more, facilitated by passionate instructors who specialize in bringing out each person's creative potential. Beyond traditional visual arts, the organization also offers drama and theater instruction, dance, cooking-based art programs, and film projects that diversify your group’s experience. They even conduct engaging summer camps, after-school sessions, and school-based programs, and they welcome volunteer opportunities for all ages, which makes it possible to bond over meaningful community service efforts. For special celebrations, Bad Dog Arts excels in hosting art parties—ideal for birthdays, family gatherings, work events, or holiday celebrations—where groups create together in a festive atmosphere. The richness of activities ensures that everyone finds their niche, and the shared creative process naturally strengthens connections among participants.
Why is Bad Dog Arts perfect for a group meetup?
There are several core reasons why Bad Dog Arts stands out as the ideal destination for hosting a group event. Firstly, the space is explicitly designed to be safe, inclusive, and engaging, making it comfortable for participants of diverse backgrounds and ages. The nonprofit’s mission emphasizes building confidence and community through art, so your group benefits from an environment where encouragement and support are paramount. The facility itself is located downtown, accessible, and equipped with multiple studios that accommodate different art forms simultaneously, which is especially convenient for larger groups wanting to explore multiple activities. Plus, staff members are highly trained in behavior management and customer service, ensuring smooth facilitation and personalized attention throughout your visit. This attention to detail frees your group to focus on enjoying the creative process without distractions or logistical concerns. The collaborative nature of many projects also fosters teamwork and conversation, making meetups not just fun but also enriching.
How does Bad Dog Arts support artistic growth and confidence building among diverse groups?
Since its founding in 1997 by artists Michael Moonbird and Victoria Lyons, Bad Dog Arts has championed art as a tool for personal empowerment and community connection. Their founding vision anchored the studio as a nurturing space where children and adults from all walks of life can explore their artistic voices without judgment. The current programming continues to deliver on this promise by offering not just technical art instruction but also projects that inspire self-expression, cultural appreciation, and social engagement. Public murals and installation projects involving students and local artists extend creative learning beyond the studio, providing tangible and celebrated results in the community. The organization's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its wide range of classes—serving toddlers, school-age kids, teens, adults, and mixed-age groups—so every participant can find an activity that resonates with their unique interests and experience level. This inclusive model helps attendees develop not only creative skills but also confidence and empathy, enriching their social and emotional lives.
What makes the staff and leadership at Bad Dog Arts exceptional for hosting events?
The staff and leadership team at Bad Dog Arts is composed of dedicated artists and educators deeply committed to fostering creativity and community engagement. Co-founders Michael Moonbird and Victoria Lyons continue to infuse the organization with artistic passion and professional expertise, overseeing program development, hiring, and ensuring high-quality instruction. Michael Moonbird brings his expertise in graphic design, illustration, murals, and community art projects, while Victoria Lyons contributes her background in printmaking, painting, and tribal art influences, which diversifies the artistic perspectives available at the studio. This leadership assures that programs remain innovative, culturally rich, and aligned with the nonprofit’s vision of accessible art education. The staff’s strong emphasis on behavior management and customer service ensures that group events are managed smoothly, creating a stress-free and enjoyable experience. This professionalism paired with genuine artistic enthusiasm makes the studio a reliable and inspiring place to convene with friends and family.
Can Bad Dog Arts accommodate special events and customized group experiences?
Yes, Bad Dog Arts is well-equipped to host special events and tailor experiences to meet specific group needs. Their art parties, which can be held in the studio or virtually, are particularly popular for birthdays, family reunions, team-building sessions, work parties, and holiday celebrations. These parties include guided art projects that are accessible for all skill levels, fostering a relaxed and joyful atmosphere perfect for fun group dynamics. The ability to customize the theme, medium, and scope of the projects means your event can be uniquely personalized to fit the occasion and preferences of your group. Additionally, Bad Dog Arts offers volunteer opportunities for families, retirees, teens, and mixed groups, providing an avenue to engage in meaningful community work together while exploring creative expression. The flexibility of programming combined with expert facilitation ensures your group event will be memorable, cohesive, and creatively fulfilling.
What additional benefits does Bad Dog Arts offer for a group meetup beyond the art itself?
Beyond the broad spectrum of creative activities, Bad Dog Arts offers intangible benefits that make meeting up with friends or family especially rewarding. The nonprofit emphasizes a culture of inclusivity, respect, and positive reinforcement, creating a supportive social setting that can enhance interpersonal bonds. Being in a shared creative environment stimulates conversation, laughter, and teamwork, providing natural ways to deepen relationships. Additionally, the sense of accomplishment participants feel from producing tangible art pieces together contributes to lasting memories and a shared sense of achievement. The studio’s downtown location means meetups can easily be combined with dining, shopping, or other nearby activities, making a day out convenient and varied. Finally, by supporting a local nonprofit committed to arts education and community outreach, your group’s outing has a meaningful impact on Salt Lake City’s cultural ecosystem. This socially conscious element adds a layer of significance to your leisure time that many other venues cannot offer.
Bad Dog Arts is more than just an art studio—it is a creative sanctuary where friends and families can gather to explore, express, and connect in truly transformative ways. Whether you are hosting a casual get-together, a celebration, or an interactive workshop, Bad Dog’s welcoming environment, diverse programs, and professional staff combine to make every visit special and inspiring. For groups seeking a unique and fulfilling venue to rally together, Bad Dog Arts stands out as the perfect choice.