Tiny Pieces Make For Big Fun
Smashing Times: the name alone is enough to spark an interest. But, like all things in art, the details draw you in.
Upon entering the shop, you’re greeted by bright mosaics and fused glass pieces lining the walls gallery-style.
The open floor plan allows for table space, creating a workshop for customers of all ages to create their own mosaic masterpiece, if desired.
Artist Robin Oldham, sister of designer Todd Oldham, owns this gem, and it is conveniently located at the Preston Royal Shopping Center.
“It’s one of those places in Dallas that you can’t find everywhere. It just makes the neighborhood richer,” said Laura Barnes, who currently fuses glass and does mosaic installations with Oldham.
Smashing Times is a trifecta that adds even more fun to art by combining gallery space, studio space, and party space.
The concept appeals to all ages, and it’s safe. The glass used in the studio is tumbled, so customers will not cut themselves.
On any given day, the store could host a group of kids for a birthday party, with a wedding shower just hours after.
Smashing Times will also work with clients to create custom work for corporate spaces and personal collections.
“It’s great for dates, all events, and even team-building events for corporate groups. And you can just go whenever,” Barnes said. “There are a lot of options. It’s a great way to be creative and know that there is someone there to help you.
When Oldham opened Smashing Times 15 years ago, she originally envisioned a beautiful gallery with pieces for purchase.
But with time comes change. As more customers came in, Oldham saw a demand from customers to create their own artwork.
“Just by people asking to make things, the vision, within six months, quickly changed,” Oldham said. “The focal point became customers making things, and that’s been our primary concept.”
The continued growth from then to now can also be attributed to customer feedback.
Oldham has brought in various designs, projects, and materials based on her customers’ desires, including silver jewelry made from precious-metal clay.
She also added camps offered weekly in the summer months for kids, ages 4 and up.
Art has been a huge part of Oldham’s life. Coming from a family of artists, she cultivated a love for it an early age.
Smashing Times is her chance to share her passion with the community.
The studio is open seven days a week. Walk-ins are welcome, and you do not have to be a Picasso to create. Oldham loves that aspect of her business.
“It’s fun for me to watch people learn to create,” Oldham said. “People come in thinking they don’t have any artistic ability, and then I watch them create something great for themselves and enjoy it.”
