It all began in 2019, when Kirsten (based in Texas) and Josh (from California) met at a gathering for innovative educators at SCAD Atlanta. They instantly clicked—two artists dreaming big about interactive spaces, wild ideas, and the power of art to bring people together.

Soon after, a student helped Kirsten secure a vacant warehouse in the Southtown Arts District of San Antonio. She called Josh, and he drove out to help build their first collaborative art space. That New Year’s Eve, they hosted an epic debut event—one magical night of lights, music, and an unforgettably good time.

Then the world shut down.

Like many, they used that pause to reflect—and realized they were all-in. Kirsten and her family moved to California, and together, she and Josh embedded themselves in Petaluma’s thriving art scene—volunteering, collaborating, and making friends.

They soon partnered with local nonprofit Life On Art, helping build out its warehouse fabrication space in exchange for the opportunity to establish their own studio and workshop—a collaborative environment where WonderStump began to take root.

But their dream was always bigger than a workshop. It was a home. A venue. A portal to the immersive experiences they longed to share with the community.

That dream sharpened into reality when they discovered 301 Petaluma Blvd North and met the building’s owner, who believed in their vision. With deep gratitude and an unwavering belief in the power of connection, Kirsten and Josh are stepping into the next chapter.

WonderStump isn’t just a space. It’s a testament to creative resilience, collaborative spirit, and the magic that can happen when people say yes to wild ideas.