A new creative studio and gallery offering a space to spark the imagination will open in Over-the-Rhine this Friday.
Shamala Hamala, located at 1306 Main St. in Over-the-Rhine, is a new concept from local stand-up comedian and portrait photographer Kevin James Thornton. The space features a private workspace for artists, with a photographic darkroom, as well as curated exhibitions and a gallery with art and other creative goods available for purchase.
Thornton, who made a living as a photographer as he tried to break into comedy, initially wanted to open a photography studio in OTR, but his idea evolved over time.
“I kept hearing people talk about ‘third spaces’ and community — and I really believe that art brings people together,” Thornton said in a press release. “From there, Shamala Hamala, a nonsense social media catch phrase, began to take shape. I started poking my head in all the open storefronts trying to find a place to open my gallery. When I looked inside the Main Street space, I fell in love with the exposed brick and the arched doorway, and I knew it was the one.”
Thornton says Shamala Hamala will nurture thoughtful art, slow creativity and imaginative publishing, as well as provide a quiet space for making that helps bring ideas to life. There will also be many community-focused projects to invite visitors in for seasonal openings and special releases.
“Kevin has built an impressive fan base through his work as a comedian, and we can’t wait to see him fill his Main Street space with the same positive energy that people have come to know and love,” said Christy Samad, executive vice president of Civic and Commercial Space Activation for 3CDC. “Shamala Hamala will be the perfect complement to the existing businesses in the Main Street corridor, like Shea Candle Co. and 10th Island Tiki Bar & Grill, creating a diverse range of art, food and retail in the Main Street business district.”
There will be an opening night celebration on Friday from 7-9 p.m., featuring a casual open house, art gallery with work from local artists and makers, live crocheting, a harpist and more. The event is free, but is ticketed and currently sold out; however, walk-ins will be welcome as space allows after 8 p.m. The grand opening will continue into Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are not required for Saturday and Sunday.
Shamala Hamala, 1306 Main St., Over-the-Rhine. More info: shamalahamala.com.
This article appears in Aug 6-19, 2025.
