More About The Studio

In the heart of historic downtown Darien The Studio offers a unique space for art and fitness. Classes are available throughout the week for both children and adults. No memberships required, no signup fees or contracts. Besides the classes The Studio features in it's gallery the best of local art and gift items reflective of the beautiful Coastal Georgia scenery and culture. In addition there are numerous events, community and social gatherings, receptions and holiday parties. Check the calendar frequently for all of the details. The Studio is also available to rent for your special occasions or business or club meetings. You can also book private fitness or paint parties for all ages.

About The Owner

Elise Palmer Miller

Elise was born in Savannah, Georgia and grew up primarily on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina in a family of artists. Her father is well known low-country painter Jim Palmer. Much of her artistic talent she credits to him. She studied art throughout her schooling attending the Governor’s School for the Arts in high school then receiving her BA from UNC-Charlotte. Also throughout her schooling she was a competitive long distance runner competing from the age of 10 in the AAU Junior Olympics then on to high school and college. Health and fitness has always been a strong component in her life. After college she settled on St. Simons Island, Georgia and opened The Palmer Gallery with her artist brother Addison Palmer. She also later opened Elise’s Unique Arts and Gifts in Brunswick, Georgia. Also during this time she taught art on cruise ships having the pleasure to see many parts of our beautiful world. In 2005 she left St. Simons Island and moved her family to Charlotte, NC. It was there she embarked on a new career … teaching fitness classes. Elise has been a certified group fitness instructor through the Athletics and Fitness Association of America since 2008. She has been licensed in a number of formats including Zumba, MixxedFit, Bokwa and more. For over 12 years in Charlotte she taught in a number of gyms and fitness centers and was a sought out instructor for special events. Elise also continued painting and showing her work in Charlotte galleries and teaching art in after school programs throughout the city. Unfortunately like so many have experienced, the Covid pandemic put a temporary halt to her fitness career. Elise took what many would have thought a set back and turned it into what she describes as one of the best moves she has ever made. In October of 2020 she moved to Darien, Georgia and opened The Studio combining both of her passions under one roof. Since she has opened she has met amazing people and found incredible support in the quaint town of Darien and the connecting towns in McIntosh and Glynn county. She looks forward to many more great years ahead.