Creativity for Community
A nonprofit makerspace dedicated to expanding access to art, collaboration, and hands-on learning in King County neighborhoods.
Our Story
Otter & Penguin Makerspaces began with a simple belief: everyone should have access to space, tools, and community to create. What started as a shared vision between two makers with deep roots in hands-on craft and community engagement grew into a nonprofit dedicated to building inclusive creative environments across King County. Today, we develop shared studios and programs that invite all ages and backgrounds to learn, experiment, and build together. Our mission is not just about space and supplies, but about connection that can empower individuals through creativity while fostering community collaboration.
Mission
Otter & Penguin Makerspaces creates inclusive, community-centered spaces where people of all ages and skill levels can explore hands-on art, build practical skills, and connect through creativity. We develop shared studios and mobile programs that remove barriers to participation and make creative opportunities accessible throughout King County.
Vision
We envision a future where access to creative space, tools, and artistic learning is not limited by income, geography, or background. Our goal is to cultivate confident makers, stronger neighborhoods, and a culture where creativity is recognized as essential to community well-being.
The Founders
Pinky Estell
With a background in metal fabrication, construction, and technical direction, Pinky brings decades of hands-on creative experience to Otter & Penguin Makerspaces. He holds degrees from Cornish College of the Arts and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and has worked with organizations including ACT San Francisco, San Francisco Opera’s Merola Opera Program, Intiman Theatre, and the Cornish Playhouse.
In addition to his role as Director of Operations at Cornish College of the Arts and Cultural Facilities Program Manager for the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, he is committed to building welcoming spaces where people can experiment, collaborate, and create together.
Managing Director & Co-Founder
Jill Beasley
Jill has been building and fixing things since she was a child, starting with model cars and learning alongside her father at home. That early curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for hands-on creative work.
A graduate of Cornish College of the Arts, Jill has spent 20 years in theater as a Shop Foreman and Technical Director, supporting creative spaces and productions across the country. She continues to freelance with arts organizations while experimenting with her own woodworking projects.
She currently serves as Facilities Manager at Village Theatre in Issaquah. Through Otter & Penguin Makerspaces, Jill is committed to helping others build, create, and gain confidence through shared creative experiences.
Operations Director & Co-Founder