MudGirls Studios Opens Expanded Atlantic City Location

After more than a decade of changing lives through art, MudGirls Studios has officially relocated to a larger space in Atlantic City, allowing the nonprofit to grow its mission of empowering women through creativity, job training, and entrepreneurship.

Founded in 2016 by ceramic artist Dorrie Papademetriou, MudGirls Studios was built on her two passions: art and social change. The organization provides disadvantaged and at-risk women with a safe, supportive environment where they learn the craft of pottery while developing skills that help lead to long-term financial independence. Participants create and sell functional ceramic pieces, earning supplemental income while building confidence, community, and a pathway toward self-sufficiency.

For many women, MudGirls Studios is a place to heal, grow, and break the cycle of poverty through meaningful work and creative expression.

During a ribbon cutting for the new space, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr. said organizations like MudGirls represent the type of community investment that is helping shape Atlantic City's future:

"We are blessed by the work you are doing through the arts and helping people," he said. "You might spur future development, and that's what it's all about."

As Atlantic City continues to attract new residential, commercial, and mixed-use development, organizations like MudGirls play an equally important role in the city's resurgence. They create places where residents can learn new skills, discover their talents, build careers, and contribute to a stronger community. Mudgirls has already partnered with the City of Atlantic City's Youth Services division for a free Ceramics Class to introduce local children to ceramics through hands-on classes, helping inspire creativity while exposing young people to new artistic opportunities.

The expanded Arctic Avenue location was made possible in part through funding from the City of Atlantic City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA). Those investments reflect a shared commitment to supporting organizations that improve quality of life while contributing to Atlantic City's continued revitalization.

With expanded space, a growing community of artists, and a mission centered on empowerment, MudGirls Studios is poised to continue transforming lives, while adding another chapter to Atlantic City's story of renewal.

Photos by City of Atlantic City Photographer Edward Lea