WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. (WVDN) – Located at 729 Main St. East in White Sulphur Springs is an artistic place where kids can grow, be creative, and let their minds wander to new heights.
Splatter and Sprout, owned by a mother and daughter, Brooke Kelley (daughter) and Stephanie Braden, became a reality when Brooke’s young daughter inspired the two owners to open a place where art can be expressed exactly how kids’ little minds would want to.
“The idea for Splatter & Sprout was inspired by my daughter—a little artist with a big imagination,” Brooke said.
“Watching her explore and create reminded us how powerful the process of making art can be for a child. We wanted to build a space where children like her could express themselves freely, with no pressure to create a “perfect” product—just the joy of exploring, experimenting, and discovering through art,” she added.
The support Brooke and Stephanie have gotten from day one from those around them made the process smooth and, without hesitation, totally worth the time and effort it took to create.
“Like all meaningful ventures, we haven’t done it alone. From day one, we’ve been supported by the strong women in our lives—especially Stephanie’s oldest daughter, Kayla Defibaugh, whose encouragement, love, and belief in our vision have meant the world to us,” Brooke said.
There are many activities that are done during the day, but one special one stands out above the pack, while the summer camps offered are just extra icing on the proverbial cake.
“This summer, we offered summer camps that gave dozens of children the opportunity to work together on a large, immersive art scene. Each week, they contributed to a different part of the piece, which now hangs proudly in the Splatter Tent. The final result is an imaginative underwater world complete with a pirate ship and a surfing shark—every detail created by our young artists. One child shared how excited he was to see his contribution displayed,” Brooke exclaimed.
“One of our favorite features is the Splatter Tent, where we host large-scale collaborative art projects. Every child who visits has a chance to contribute—leaving their unique mark as part of something bigger than themselves.”
The arts center is a great addition to the town of White Sulphur, as Brooke and Stephanie have a clear path and vision for everything to come together.
“Splatter & Sprout is an art-based sensory play space where children are encouraged to experiment, create, and explore in a supportive, imaginative environment. We’re driven by a passion to provide a space where kids can express themselves freely, build confidence in their ideas, and create art that is entirely their own,” they stated.
“Our goal is to have a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the children who come through our doors—encouraging creativity, confidence, and joy through art,” they concluded.
For those wanting to learn more about Splatter and Sprout, their Grand Opening will be on Tuesday, August 5, at 10 a.m.
Their regular hours will be Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
