Creativity for Every Community
A nonprofit makerspace dedicated to expanding access to art, collaboration, and hands-on learning in Seattle 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 Seattle. 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 — empowering individuals through creativity while fostering community collaboration.
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The 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 Seattle.
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The 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
Managing Director & Co/founder
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.
Operations Director & Co/founder
Jill Beasley
Jill has been building and fixing things since she was a child, starting with model cars and LEGO and learning alongside her father at home. That early curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for hands-on creative work.
After earning her BFA in Performance Production from Cornish College of the Arts, she began managing shops and leading technical teams in both professional and educational settings. Over the past 20 years, she has worked as a Shop Foreman and Technical Director, supporting theaters and creative spaces across the country.
Jill is passionate about teaching others how to build and create with confidence. She now serves as Facilities Manager at Village Theatre in Issaquah, where she keeps a four-building campus running smoothly while staying closely connected to the creative community she loves.