"As an artist and educator, I believe the greatest gift we can give ourselves and our kids is time and space to create and find peace. After many wonderful years with the Poway Unified School District, retiring from elementary education felt like a new beginning. Now, I have the privilege of facilitating art classes for both adults and children, where I help students of all levels find their own creative voice. My journey started with a degree in Design from UC Davis, and it became clear that my deepest desire was to use the power of art to help others grow. For me, creating has always been the best place to find peace. I’ve explored countless mediums and am deeply inspired by the joy and relaxation that happens when we experiment with color and line. My teaching philosophy is simple: The joy of art is for everyone, not just the "innately talented." Whether you are a seasoned creator or a complete beginner, my goal is to provide a supportive community where no student ever feels inadequate about their ability. I know firsthand that life can be challenging; creating has been my ticket to freedom from the weight of the world. That is the profound, calming relief I strive to offer every student, regardless of age. Let’s create together."

"Throughout my years of teaching History and Spanish at Poway High School, I’ve found a new joy in serving as the "right-hand man" and teaching partner to my wife, Betsy. While Betsy leads the creative vision, I am here to make sure every student (and parent!) feels welcomed, supported, and ready to create. I’ve always believed that art is the heartbeat of history—it’s how cultures tell their stories and how societies change. I love weaving fun facts about artists and different cultures into our lessons, but my favorite part of the day is seeing the pure excitement in a student's eyes when they discover something new. In our classes, I wear many hats. I’m the first person you’ll likely meet—helping with parking, greeting your family, and making sure all the paperwork is a breeze so you can focus on the fun. Once class starts, I’m the "refresher of paint," the teller of (mostly) good jokes, the bringer of snacks, and the one-on-one helper for any student who needs an extra hand. I know that for many, a new environment can be a bit overwhelming. My goal is to keep things light-hearted and safe. Whether I’m checking on a project or bringing out our family cats for a calming visit, I’m here to ensure that our studio feels like a second home for everyone who walks through the door. I can’t wait to welcome you to the studio."

"I believe every human is born creative—after all, before we walk, we dance, and before we talk, we sing and before we write we draw. I am thrilled to join the family team this year, bringing my love for "functional art" and inclusive community-building to our tween and adult classes. With a degree in Cultural Anthropology from UCSD and a lifetime of art electives under my belt, I’ve always been fascinated by how creativity connects us. Whether I’m volunteering in local elementary classrooms or running my community art nights, my goal is to create a space where everyone feels they belong. I have a special heart for the introverts, the "spicy" personalities, and everyone in between—I promise to keep you laughing and ensure you never feel inadequate about your creative ability. Beyond the studio, I am the founder of a non-profit cat rescue. My life is a mix of art and rescue work, and you might even meet some of my "kitty ambassadors" who occasionally join our sessions! I’m a huge fan of art that has a purpose—like snail mail exchanges and artist trading cards—and I’m passionate about using the creative process for relaxation and mental wellness. I can’t wait to meet you, share some stories, and help you find your creative spark."

Our friendly "Kitty Ambassadors" live in their very own outdoor catio! Students are welcome to visit and pet them with parental permission. Tiger: "The Old Man" who is constantly smiling and full of Zen. Luna: Our "Fluffy & Serious" girl who lives for food and belly rubs. Velcro: The "Sassy Daredevil" who sticks to everything (and everyone!). Sugarplum: Soft and shy, she hops like a bunny and is just as sweet. Note: For the comfort of all our guests, the cats remain in their secure outdoor catio during class. If your student would like a "pet and love" break, we are happy to facilitate a supervised visit!