Presence Studio

- 1207 Ellsworth St, Bellingham, WA 98225

In the heart of Bellingham, Washington, a unique and elegant space known as Presence Studio stands as a testament to the power of movement, community, and personal expression. This is far more than a typical dance school; it's a non-profit collective dedicated to creating a safe and intentional container for a wide variety of embodied practices. Founded in 2008, the studio has evolved into a beloved community hub, stewarded by volunteers who share a vision of inspiring authentic, mindful, and interconnected living. The diverse schedule of classes, workshops, and events at Presence Studio caters to a broad audience, from those seeking a creative outlet to individuals on a journey of personal growth and holistic well-being. It is a space where professional artists and beginners alike can find a class that resonates with their goals, whether it’s a high-energy dance session or a meditative, introspective practice. The core mission of the studio is to foster a sense of belonging and provide resources for the mind, body, and soul, making it a vital part of the local artistic and wellness community.

The physical space itself contributes significantly to the studio's unique atmosphere. The 2,000-square-foot sprung maple dance floor, over 100 years old, provides a beautiful and supportive surface for all types of movement. Large, east-facing windows fill the room with natural light, creating a bright and airy environment. The studio also features a full-length mirrored wall that can be covered by rich velvet drapes for classes and events where a more intimate, non-reflective atmosphere is desired. An old-growth fir bench seat extends around three-quarters of the room, offering a comfortable place to pause and observe. The space is not just for movement; it is also a platform for local artists, with rotating art installations and exhibits that add to the creative energy of the studio. This blend of historic elegance and a modern, community-focused approach makes Presence Studio a truly special place for those in Bellingham and beyond to explore embodiment and connection.

Presence Studio is located at 1207 Ellsworth St in Bellingham, WA, situated in a central and accessible area for local residents. The location makes it a convenient destination for anyone in the region seeking a space for dance and movement practices. The studio has a wheelchair-accessible car park, which is a thoughtful feature that enhances its accessibility for visitors with mobility considerations. However, it is important for prospective visitors to note that access to the studio itself is via stairs, as it is situated on the second floor of the building. This is a detail to be aware of when planning a visit. The studio's central location ensures that it is well-integrated into the fabric of the Bellingham community, making it easy to reach for a drop-in class or a scheduled event. The studio’s commitment to providing a welcoming, and in some aspects, accessible space, underscores its role as a key player in the city’s vibrant arts and wellness scene.

The list of services offered at Presence Studio is extensive and diverse, reflecting its mission to serve a wide range of community needs and interests. The programming is built around the concepts of conscious embodiment and personal expression, with offerings that go beyond traditional dance lessons. Services provided include:

• Children’s and Youth Programs: The studio hosts specialized programs for young people, providing a positive environment for them to explore movement and creativity from a young age.
• Community Classes and Drop-In Classes: Many of the studio’s offerings are designed to be accessible to the general public, including weekly and monthly drop-in classes that allow for flexibility and spontaneous participation.
• Conscious and Ecstatic Dance: This is a core focus of the studio, offering practices like Open Floor and conscious dance that encourage participants to move freely and intuitively, fostering a deeper connection to their bodies and emotions.
• Fitness and Floor Classes: In addition to expressive dance, Presence Studio also hosts various fitness and floor-based classes, providing opportunities for physical well-being in a supportive environment.
• Master Classes and Workshops: The studio regularly invites guest artists and instructors to lead specialized master classes and workshops, attracting participants from across the region and beyond.
• Private Classes and Events: The studio space is available for rental for private classes, rehearsals, and other special events, offering a beautiful and functional venue for various needs.
• Studio and Special Events: Presence Studio hosts its own events, including performances and celebrations, that showcase the work of its community members and local artists.

The variety in their offerings ensures that there is something for everyone, making it a central hub for movement in Bellingham.

Presence Studio is defined by a number of key features and highlights that make it a uniquely valuable place for the Bellingham community. These attributes are what make the space a sanctuary for so many and a magnet for artists and movers alike:

• Dedicated to Conscious Embodiment: The studio’s primary focus is on practices that connect the mind, body, and spirit, creating a more profound and meaningful experience than a typical dance class.
• Community-Run and Non-Profit: As a non-profit collective run by volunteers, the studio operates with a strong sense of mission and a commitment to its community, ensuring that its values are at the forefront of every decision.
• Historical and Elegant Space: The studio’s 100-year-old sprung maple floor, abundant natural light, and artistic decor create an inspiring and elegant environment for all activities.
• Holistic Well-Being Focus: Beyond physical movement, the studio aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and grounded container for holistic well-being, fostering a deeper sense of connection and creativity among its members.
• Platform for Local Artists: The studio actively supports the local arts community by featuring rotating art installations and providing a space for a wide variety of independent teachers and facilitators.
• Diverse and Inclusive Offerings: The broad range of classes—from children’s dance to conscious dance, and from fitness to master classes—ensures that the studio is a welcoming space for people of all ages and backgrounds.

These highlights demonstrate the studio’s commitment to fostering a truly supportive and inspiring environment for personal and collective growth.

For more information or to inquire about classes and rentals, Presence Studio can be reached at the following contact points:

Address: 1207 Ellsworth St, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA

Phone: (360) 739-7027

Choosing Presence Studio is a decision to embrace a lifestyle of movement, mindfulness, and community. What makes this studio truly worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to its core values. It is a place where you are not just a participant but a valued member of a vibrant collective. The elegance and history of the space provide a beautiful backdrop for a diverse array of classes that cater to every need, from a fun fitness class to a deeply transformative conscious dance practice. Whether you are a parent looking for a positive environment for your child, or an adult seeking a way to de-stress and reconnect with yourself, Presence Studio offers a safe and intentional container. The volunteer-driven, non-profit model ensures that every aspect of the studio is curated with the community’s best interests at heart. For anyone in the Washington region looking to explore embodiment, personal expression, and genuine connection, Presence Studio is more than just a dance school; it is a sanctuary that inspires and uplifts.

Presence Studio

1207 Ellsworth St, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA