Meet our Makers

The Maker’s Foundry is rooted in the principle that Art, Community, and Movement connects us to one another. All of our artists bring a beautifully unique perspective and talent to Downtown Defiance. We are excited to share them with you all!

Samantha Lapolla

Samantha is excited to bring her passion for art, sustainability, activism, and philanthropy to the Defiance community.

The idea for The Maker’s Foundry was born from a desire to create an art focused small business incubator that focuses on giving local artisans a space to showcase their gifts while giving back to the community. An integral piece of this work is partnering with local nonprofits in order to donate a portion of workshop proceeds back into the local community.

As an artist, serial hobbyist, and firm believer that creative expression belongs in everyone’s daily life, Samantha designs The Maker’s Foundry workshops as spaces for meaningful, collaborative creation.

Also the founder of Sustainable Staples, her high-end, natural-fiber thrift line, she hopes to combat fast-fashion waste by cultivating pieces that last a lifetime.

Alongside this, the banned book library Redacted, champions free speech and literary freedom by rescuing banned or challenged books. Redacted proves that even discarded materials can spark powerful community conversations.

Founder

Jenna Gibson

Jenna believes creativity thrives when people have a place to connect, collaborate , and grow. A former high school Spanish and Drama teacher, a current doctoral student in Organization Development and Change at Bowling Green State University, Jenna brings together experience in education, leadership, event design, and the arts.

As the owner and founder of Sip & Scheme, a boutique event planning and decorating business in Defiance, and co-founder of The Maker’s Foundry and The Rhythm Room, she is passionate about building community-centered spaces that encourage learning, creativity, and belonging.

Through The Maker’s Foundry, Jenna is passionate about helping artists, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community member turns ideas into reality by fostering collaboration, sharing resources, and creating opportunities for meaningful connection.

Co-Founder
Co-Founder

Julie Foleno

Julie is the owner and founder of The Rhythm Room and a co-founder of The Maker’s Foundry. She believes that movement is a fundamental form of art, and her energy and joy for the creative process are woven through every aspect of her daily life. Julie leads the Foundry’s mission to foster creative expression, rhythm, and joy through movement and dance.

Alongside her passion for dance, Julie is a sign language interpreter by trade. She firmly believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to move, and that everyone learns differently. She is happy to accommodate all styles and needs, ensuring that absolutely everyone is welcome…no matter who you are!

Resident Makers

  • Annabella Lapolla

    Drowsy Belvedere

    This whimsical brand brings quirky style and one of a kind jewelry pieces to Downtown Defiance.

  • Liliput

    Liliput is a brand of children’s jewelry made by a local 9 year old artist. She started her journey making necklaces and bracelets for her friends and wanted to start her own boutique brand. The Foundry was the perfect place to encourage this young entrpreneur!

  • More Artists joining soon!

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