Hours: Weekdays 10-6. Weekends 11-5.
We’re proud to introduce a refreshed brand that more clearly reflects who we are, what we do, and where we’re going — and we didn’t get here alone.
Last fall, Daake, a nationally recognized brand strategy and design firm, selected us as the
featured nonprofit in its annual 48-Hour Rebrand. This incredible opportunity resulted in a pro bono brand strategy, identity, and messaging developed and presented to Hot Shops in just two days.
And although it was a dedicated 48-hour brand sprint, the effort and collaboration were made possible by weeks of research, conversation, and exploration into what makes the Hot Shops truly unique.
Together, we worked throughout the process to define and protect the narrative that has always been at our core: heat, craft, material, process, and direct engagement.
Video highlight reel of process >
Our mission and values aren’t changing, but as part of this work, we took the opportunity to clarify a vision for Hot Shops’ future that reflects not just today, but who we are becoming:
Our Vision:
“To be the most alive, open, and original visual arts community in Omaha.”
Our new brand is a logo designed with intention and deep meaning.
The logo’s slight 13-degree tilt not only offers a subtle nod to our location here on 13th Street, but also signals who we are: We’re a little different, a little unexpected, and a little quirky.
But what you notice first is how the words “Hot Shops” intersect at the “O,” which creates a deliberate focal point representative of the Omaha community at the heart of all we do. It serves as a visual reminder of all the paths that intersect and meet here — the ideas, the experiences, the artists, and our visitors.
This center focal point creates what we call the “maker space”— an open area designed to be filled, reimagined, and transformed into something new. It’s an open invitation that reflects what happens every day inside the Hot Shops: artists and visitors alike stepping into the process of creation.
Here, everyone has a chance to make, and that idea is at the heart of everything we do. Make is our core calling. It’s not just something we support—it’s something we actively invite, encourage, and challenge. Whether you’re an experienced artist or trying something new for the first time, the door is open.
Each word of our new tagline, “Make. Meld. More.” carries meaning for us:
Make is the action. It’s the process. It’s the spark.
“Make it. Make space. Make it happen. Make it better. Make more.”
Meld is where transformation happens. It’s the molding, melting, and blending. It’s that invitation to connect, immerse, and see things differently. “Meld ideas. Meld the mess. Meld with us. Meld more.”
More is endless possibility. It’s the “what if?” It’s a blank canvas.
“More space. More meaning. More making. More connection. More “gooder” (Thank you, Tim Barry).
Together, the three words reflect the energy and momentum of the Hot Shops and an environment where creativity is never static, but constantly evolving.
Hot Shops is Omaha’s only fiery arts hub—where ideas take shape, creators and community converge, and imagination knows no limits.
As a living arts center, we spark curiosity through hands-on, immersive experiences that draw people directly into the act of making. This rare fusion of creativity and collaboration empowers everyone who enters to participate—not just observe.
You don’t just see art here.
You are empowered to make it.
You’ll soon start to see this new brand come to life across the Hot Shops gradually through signage, digital platforms, events, and more.
But this isn’t about a one-time, splashy reveal; the brand represents an ongoing, evolving creative process.
Because a brand, like art, is never finished.
And neither are we.
We’re excited to continue building this next chapter together, with our artists, our community, and everyone who walks through our doors.
Come make with us.