Addison Smith is an enthusiastic improv and theatre substitute, who has been involved in performing arts for 12 years. When not teaching improv or performing, she is at Florida Gulf Coast University, majoring in education. Addison started her engagement in theatre when she was 8 years old, and has now combined her love for teaching with her love for the arts. She is grateful to be able to help bring accessible arts education to the community.

Alice Bonilha is a Brazilian-born artist with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a master’s degree in Anthropology. She is also a Florida-certified visual-arts teacher. A long-time and passionate teacher, she encourages students to utilize fundamental visual-art elements and design principles while still fostering students’ creativity and individuality. Her own artwork, which she regularly displays at juried art shows, currently focuses on crafting functional and artistic ceramics — including bowls, mugs, plates, platters, vases, and figurines — that are aesthetically pleasing and contemporary.

Teaching is my purpose. I taught high school English for 41 years in Florida and during that time, a friend of mine reintroduced me to yoga and I haven’t looked back. In 2013, I completed my RYT 200 Teacher Training and continued to complete my 300-hour certification in 2020. Yoga has become an integral part of my life; it is my church; my personal empowerment and yoga was able to meet me right where I am.

Let yoga meet you right where YOU are. 

See you on your mat!

Amy Noel Walters ~ known as The “Famous” Amy Noel ~ is a musician, certified sound healer, Reiki Master, integrative nutrition health coach, yoga and breathwork instructor, and holistic fitness specialist based in Babcock Ranch, Florida. With nearly 40 years of experience in music and wellness, Amy Noel brings a deeply intentional, heart-centered approach to every session she facilitates. She is the founder of Island Style Institute for Music & Movement and has been a beloved presence in the Southwest Florida wellness community.

“PAINT ONLY WHAT YOU LOVE AND PAINT LOTS” – Anne Abgott

Anne Abgott is an award-winning artist and currently serves as President of The Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island. Anne is a “Signature” member of over 10 Watercolor societies. Most important and prestigious and also the hardest to achieve are American Watercolor AWS, Transparent Watercolor TWSA, National Watercolor NWS, and San Diego Watercolor SDWS. She is an accomplished and respected teacher and is the Author of the best selling book titled Daring Color.

Born in Ontario Canada, Anne began painting in oils as a teenager. But after moving to the USA in 1998, she began to explore the wonderful world of WATERCOLOR. Impatient with the typical layering and glazing in watercolor, she works directly from the moistened well of paint directly to the paper.

Technique aside, design and composition are very important and not as easy to conquer. Anne feels she is still learning and wants to learn more so every day is a challenge! Anne finds that she is happier and has a feeling of accomplishment at the end of each painting day. At this time, Anne is only interested in painting images that challenge her. She says “If I don’t think I can do it, it lights my fire!!!!!”.

Aseem Upadhyay is a multidisciplinary performer and educator with experience in theatre, musical performance and vocal training. After completing his master’s degree in Computer Science at Michigan Technological University, Aseem made his home in the Naples–Fort Myers area. He was most recently seen in Almost, Maine with Theatre Conspiracy, as Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing at The Naples Players, and as George Read in 1776 at BB Mann. His additional stage credits include Phillip Lombard (And Then There Were None), Jesus (Jesus Christ Superstar), Captain Phoebus (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Simon (The Game’s Afoot), Bo Decker (Bus Stop), Lyman Sanderson (Harvey) and Glenn Cooper (Rumors). He has also been seen performing live music in SWFL and NYC, and produces original music with his brother frequently.

A lifelong performer originally from India, Aseem’s background spans acting, music, street theatre and stand‑up comedy. He has appeared in multiple short films, expanding his practice into on‑camera storytelling. Trained in both Indian classical music and Western vocal technique, he has performed extensively with bands since high school. Under the guidance of teachers such as Marcus Dean Fuller and Jessica Walck, he follows a performance methodology that blends the psychological realism of the Stanislavsky technique with the responsive truthfulness of Meisner work.

Aseem has had the privilege to teach students across all age ranges from kindergarten through older adults in multiple disciples and has also served as a vocal coach for acapella troupes in New Delhi, India. His instructional practice emphasizes embodied storytelling, vocal clarity and collaborative process.

Asha Vyas brings a unique blend of analytical precision and artistic passion to her watercolor teaching. By day, she works as an accountant specializing in nonprofits and serves as a corporate trainer, but her true calling lies in the creative world of painting. For over 10 years, she has been exploring watercolors and transforming her artwork into handcrafted greeting cards, which she has successfully sold on Etsy and through local gift shops.

Asha believes art should be accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level. In her classes, she breaks down barriers and helps students discover the joy of watercolor painting. Her goal is to empower learners to create beautiful, personalized cards they’ll be proud to share with friends and family, celebrating the special nature of handmade art.

Whether students are picking up a paintbrush for the first time or returning to a beloved hobby, Asha guides them through the wonderful, forgiving medium of watercolors with warmth and encouragement.

Barbara Ellis is originally from Chicago, Illinois and graduated from Ringling School of Art and Design In Sarasota Florida. She has received many awards for her work as a licensed Interior Designer and as a creator of fine jewelry. Barbara also creates and designs her own beaded jewelry pieces and patterns. She has been published in “Beadwork Magazine” several times with her necklace and bracelets designs. She participates in many of the Toho Challenge events and two of her pieces have traveled to both Japan and Germany on exhibition. She was selected as one of the Bead Dreams Finalist in 2017 and 2019. She is currently showing her one of a kind Beaded Spats on display in the Museum of Beads located in Portland ME.

She shares her craft by teaching at Arts Bonita  in Bonita Springs Florida, and various Embroidery Guild of America events and organizations.
Barbara exhibits with the Naples Artcrafters at monthly tent shows and events, special events at The Shangra La Springs in Bonita Springs and now on Display at The Hand & Harvest Artisan Market at Mercato in Naples Florida.

Born and raised in the Pittsburgh area, I am now thrilled to say I am a permanent resident of Naples, Florida. Self-directed and driven to draw and paint since a child and completing my first oil portrait at 15, I went on to become an public school art teacher and worked as a portrait artist during the summers at local and state-wide art shows, malls, and festivals. When I learned Studio Incamminati had opened within a drivable distance I attended nearly every workshop offered. Seizing every opportunity to study and grow, not only within portrait, figurative and still-life genres, I have also been part of the Plein-air movement. When not at my own easel, I love to help others gain strong skills and knowledge which will serve them well through their personal artistic journey.

For the past 23 years, I’ve had the joy of teaching elementary school students and helping them discover a love for learning. One of my favorite ways to bring stories to life is through Readers Theatre, and I’m excited to be assisting our school’s musical production this year. Inspiring children through creativity, imagination, and storytelling has always been my passion, both in the classroom and as a children’s author.

Bridget is a lover of all kinds of art. With an extensive background in dance as a performer, choreographer, competitor, and educator she sees the world in motion. She has certifications in 13 dance styles with experience in many more. She is currently a member of the teaching faculty at Fred Astaire Bonita Springs teaching students with diverse experience levels holding the title of beginner specialist as well as being a part of the advanced teaching department. She is committed to fostering technical excellence, artistic expression, and personal growth. Bridget is especially passionate about helping performers develop confidence, stage presence, and authentic storytelling, whether on the social dance floor or the theatrical stage. In addition to dancing Bridget also plays the piano, sings, speaks Spanish and is constantly on the search for new experiences.

My name is Carmen Pérez Vera, and I’m a Venezuelan artist. I’ve been painting since I was 12 years old, and art has been my passion — and my refuge — ever since. Over the years I’ve picked up other crafts I love just as much: sewing, embroidery, crochet, macramé, and paper mâché. Each of these has taught me something different about patience, attention to detail, and finding my own way to express myself.

I hold a degree in Art with a focus in Filmmaking from the Universidad Central de Venezuela, a technical degree in Costume Design with an emphasis in wardrobe from the Universidad de Panamá, and a diploma in Art Direction from Venezuela’s National Film School. This background has allowed me to work across film, television, theater, and radio advertising. I am a producer, screenwriter, visual artist, craftswoman and a proud teacher.

Teaching art has been part of my life since high school, when I first started as a volunteer. Over time, I’ve come to see it as work that is as rewarding as it is meaningful, especially when working with children. It’s a responsibility I take to heart — helping them build skills that strengthen their self-esteem, sharpen their fine motor skills, and, little by little, give them the confidence to see the world and express themselves in their own way.

Studied Game Development at Academy of Art University.

Doug Corsini’s passion and talent became evident at the age of 10, earning awards and a scholarship to Rhode Island School of Design’s youth program. After high school Doug studied at The Art Institute of Boston, and then attended The Boston Museum School of Fine Art with a focus on sculpture and design. His post-graduate work was done at the Vatican School of the Arts in Florence, Italy. Doug credits his inspiration from Europe’s great artists, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Bellini, Raphael and William Turner. For several decades Doug worked out of his studio in Rhode Island as a commission sculptor, creating sculptures for well-known institutions and corporations. Doug’s skills and talents are now shared with others, teaching Modeling in Clay, Portrait and Figure, Wax Carving for Bronze Sculpture, and Stone Carving at the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. Doug is also working on his sculpture focusing in perfusion of cells 3-D, captured with bronzes and a polychrome matrix, which will be colorful and exciting.

Douglas has been painting full time for over 25 years, capturing the natural beauty of landscapes, seascapes, city life and still lifes throughout the United States and Europe.
Along the way, he’s connecting and building relationships with people across the country – through the timeless beauty of art.

Dr. Mary Lambert, AP, DOM, is a board-certified Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine with a primary focus on pain management and whole-person care. She began her hands-on work in skincare and medical massage, where her clinical skills and intuitive touch helped clients experience both physical relief and greater comfort in their own bodies.

Building on this foundation in bodywork, Dr. Lambert expanded her training into Chinese medicine, where her refined palpation skills became a strong asset in acupuncture practice. She is committed to bringing “more care to healthcare” by treating each person as an individual, integrating acupuncture, herbal medicine, and related modalities to support quality of life in a compassionate, professional setting.

Eileen is a proud native to Lee county. She is an alumni of Florida Southern College, receiving a BFA in Musical Theatre Performance with a minor in music. Eileen is a teacher of performing arts as well as a professional vocalist all over the SW Florida area. She takes pride in having the privilege to teach performing skills to the next generation of superstars, while forging her own artistic path right alongside them!

Elis Hyshmeri is an accomplished mixed-media sculptor, independent artist, and educator with more than 20 years of professional experience in the arts. He has built a distinguished career that bridges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistic innovation, establishing a unique voice in modern sculpture and metal arts. His creativity is a tapestry of diverse materials and genres, ranging from academic realistic sculptures to modern interpretations, a testament to his boundless imagination and artistic versatility. Known as the sculptor of powerful dynamics and strong counterpoints, holder of Multiple International prizes, and welcomed in the US as an individual of extraordinary ability in the arts field, brings to Arts Bonita the excellence of European sculpture.

As Chair of the Metal Department at Arts Bonita, his artistic mission is to build a meaningful and impactful metal atelier, helping students create works that resonate with diverse audiences while expressing their own artistic voice. Through both his teaching and creative practice, Hyshmeri aims to inspire emerging artists and hobbyists while continuing to push the boundaries of contemporary metal and mixed-media art.

https://artvoyagedesign.com/sculptures/

https://artvoyagedesign.com/drawings/

https://artvoyagedesign.com/interior-design/

Born an artist, I always knew I’d end up within the art field, and quickly found my way into teaching it. I’m well versed in many disciplines, and like to explore new materials and mediums when given the chance. My enthusiasm for figuring out the new allows me to learn with my students, and embrace new techniques, bettering my practice.
Despite teaching art daily to middle schoolers, I still find time to practice my own art of oil painting in preparation for a Masters in Fine Art. I’m exploring the relationship between feminine energy and the natural environment, and that of the relationship between women. This continued practice has allowed me connect with my students, and at times has even been inspired by my students, who tend to show the unfiltered reality of our relationships to one another. I seek to continue learning, which also sharing my knowledge of art with others.

Estelle Kafer studied at Syracuse University School of Art and the School of Visual Arts in NYC where she focused on textile design. After graduating, her career path took her in a different direction but her passion to create always kept her busy attending art classes and workshops, experimenting with textile and jewelry design, collage , acrylic painting and mixed media art. Estelle has taught children’s art classes and adult workshops. She has exhibited in her local area and owned and managed two art related businesses. When Estelle retired in 2019 and was able to devote more time to art making she happily discovered gel plate printing and began to incorporate her mono prints into her art work.

Gail is an abstract artist and workshop facilitator based in Southwest Florida. Following a 30-year career in the IT industry, she now dedicates her work to helping others experience creativity as a form of self-care and emotional well-being. Her mindful art workshops encourage participants to explore self-awareness and inner calm through playful and expressive practices. With warmth and empathy, Gail guides people to use art as a pathway to reflection, connection, and renewal.

Hi, my name is Heidi Endress. I’m a high vibe individual who loves to bring out the creative flow & self compassion in every artist. I have an extensive background in Art. My degree:Commercial Art. Had a 36 yr as a public school educator and 10 years as the art director and teacher. I own my own art education business for a couple of years, and have a passion to share the love of visual arts combined with living a more balanced and softer life. I believe in self compassion and taking time to create, as these two go hand in hand with our well being. Slowing down gives us the opportunity to breathe, reflect, rejuvenate, and create. This gives our nervous system room to regulate, it gives our busy minds time to pause, and it gives our body time to breathe, create movement and flow in Art. My goal is for everyone who joins a class with me, to get lost in the moment, create in the flow, and take home more than just a beautiful craft and creation. 

With a background in anatomy and kinesiology and a foundation of yoga rooted in multi-style yoga and eight limbs philosophy, the yoga instruction is an integration of body, mind, spirit, and creative and fun play Teaching Multi-style Yoga; Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative and Therapeutics, I customize sequences based on the individuals abilities. Working with a lot of athletes who already have strong cardio workout in their routines, I find low impact stretching and deep holds offer amazing benefits for chronically tight muscles and over stressed nervous systems. Creating fun and dynamic workshops from Yin Yoga Hip Flow, Yin + Meridians, Yoga for Bicyclists to Open Your Heart Restorative, I am always expanding my love for yoga and finding new ways to reach all kinds of people.

“Why do I create? It’s in my soul. I am constantly exploring, experimenting, and enjoying the process of creating something new. The textures, colors, and shapes that permeate the canvas are all part of my personal journey. I have broadened my artistic knowledge through the study of art and art history. I continue to diversify my work by attending classes and workshops.

My work is both abstract and realistic. I have exhibited my work, won awards, sold, and have been commissioned to do paintings. It is truly my exploration in paint and I am most grateful.”

Joni Sherman is a dedicated art educator with over 35 years of experience inspiring student creativity. Joni holds a Master’s Degree in Art Education from Miami University and has brought the joy of art-making to every age level from pre-school to university students. Joni is also skilled at curriculum development and spent many years as the executive director of an arts-focused non-profit organization. Outside of the classroom Joni can be found arranging flowers, cooking, crocheting, reading, listening to live music and spending time with her three daughters.

Judy Ladd graduated from Western Michigan University with a BA degree in art, she received an MFA from Notre Dame. She worked at the South Bend Art Center teaching children and adult classes, as well as being the faculty representative to the board for years. Her first teaching assignment was at Darden school in first grade and later moved to LaSalle High School as an art instructor. At the high school level, she was art department chairman, worked on The Scholastic Art Awards and the Third Congressional Art Competition which her student won the district award which was presented in New York. During that time, she opened up a co-op gallery which housed 30 local artists.

Throughout the years, she served as president of the Northern Indiana Artists and also became involved in the St. Joseph Watercolor Society in which she ran their Leeper Park Art Fair for 24 years.

Julie Tibus is a professional artist with over 18 years of experience selling and exhibiting her work. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the prestigious College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit, Michigan. Besides being an accomplished artist, Julie has also spent several years teaching at her studios in Ann Arbor and Brighton, Michigan. However, in recent times, her passion for exploration and freedom has led her to embrace a full-time nomadic lifestyle. She has sold everything and is now traveling across the USA, teaching, showcasing, and selling her art.

Julie’s insatiable curiosity has driven her to experiment with emerging mediums and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of her craft. Her work is a beautiful fusion of nature’s beauty and her bold, unbridled expression. Julie’s love for teaching is also evident in her work, as she shares her passion for art, exploration, and knowledge with others.

Kaelyn’s journey into the arts began nine years ago, and continued when she took a simple high school pottery class. She fell in love with both the pottery wheel and complex hand building, and began to branch out and create on her own. Over the past two years as a professional pottery instructor, her passion has evolved into a love for teaching others and helping students begin their own creative paths. Heavily inspired by the ocean and the beach, she brings a warm, coastal energy into both the studio and her work, guiding students through every spin of the wheel. She shares this creative passion with her partner, Kendall, who serves as her business partner and hand paints all of their collaborative ceramic work. Ultimately, Kaelyn thrives on creating an encouraging and welcoming environment where anyone can discover the joy of clay and bring their own artistic visions to life.

Karin Wolfe is the founder of Firefly Within, a Certified Biofeedback Specialist. Reiki Practitioner and sound healing facilitator. Self-taught in the art of crystal singing bowls, she allows intuition and the collective energy of the group to guide every sound bath, creating a unique experience that encourages deep relaxation, balance and inner calm.

Kel Campbell is a ceramic artist and educator whose creative practice extends across a variety of artistic mediums. A graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University, Kel has earned multiple awards and recognitions for her artwork, reflecting both her technical skill and artistic vision.

In addition to exhibiting and selling her work at art festivals throughout the East Coast, Kel was recently selected as the full-time resident artist for Cottage No. 4 in Downtown Bonita Springs, where she continues to create, teach, and engage with the local arts community.

Lauren Amalia Redding is an artist and writer living in Naples, Florida. She received her BA from Northwestern University and her MFA from the New York Academy of Art. She’s exhibited her meticulous representational drawings across the United States and written for various publications on art and culture. You can learn more about her at www.laurenamaliaredding.com.

Leigh Greco‘s work reflects her lifelong love of vibrant, intense colors interacting with light in tropical landscapes and foliage.

Her experience includes teaching adults, children, and high school students drawing, panting and design throughout collier county schools. Leigh received a Bachelors degree from the University of Florida and a Master’s degree in Art from FIU. Her work has been shown in many exhibits and galleries in Southwest Florida and currently can be seen at Naples CoCo Gallery and at her studio in the Naples Art district.

My appreciation for the world we live in has developed from my art experience of 40 years. Artists view the world in a unique way and see many things others miss.

I have studied with many well known artists and took classes at Herron Art School. Works have been accepted in various shows and traveled with some shows.

I have taught at several arts facilities and presently enjoy teaching at the Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs. I teach watercolor with the step by step and demo by demo method. This takes the process slow and easy. I provide tracings for anyone who isn’t proficient in drawing.

After the drawing is complete we proceed forward.

In describing my work, I would like to think that my ideas, which I have given great thought and concern, are shared with the viewers. I want to take the viewer to a place of tranquility, peace or different course of thought.

I enjoy each and every time I pick up the brush to paint. It provides me with tranquility and peace of which I hope transfers to the viewer.

Lisa Daria Kennedy grew up along the northeast edge of the Hockomock Swamp in Massachusetts. She received her BA from Roger Williams University (1995) in Graphic Design and her BFA from Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Illustration (1998), and her MFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in 2D (2013). Kennedy has worked as a product and surface designer and illustrator in the international giftware industry. She is affiliated with Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI as the Design Editor for the literary publication, Mount Hope and is an Assistant Professor at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Boston, MA.

“As far back as I remember, I always wanted to paint and draw. As a kid, I spent my Saturday mornings at the Tonoff Gallery in Providence taking lessons in drawing and painting. Earning degrees in textiles and art, I decided to become a teacher. My teaching career, including continuing education classes and workshops spanned over 30 years.

My advice to aspiring artists is learn the basics. Take the time to learn to draw well. Practice, practice, practice. There is no such thing as talent, only hard work. There are many wonderful classes at local art associations for all levels. Take all the classes you can. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Make lots of mistakes…happy mistakes!”

Lynn earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Miami and is a professional writer, author and teacher who also finds designing and hand crafting jewelry rewarding. While living in Connecticut, she was hired at a bead store and the local art center where she taught such techniques as bead stringing, pearl knotting, Kumihimo, bead weaving, wire wrapping and weaving, and chain maille. She also taught paper quilling at the art center and at an art gallery.
For youth programs, her classes in shell art, paper quilling, and cartooning were always popular at the art center.

Lynn now lives in Naples, Florida, and is happy to be a member of the faculty at the Center for the Arts in Bonita Springs. She is also an author of short stories and novels. Her suspense novels, The Deadly Game and Saving Maria are available on Amazon and other booksellers.

Mary Parkman graduated from Cornell University with a degree in Fine Arts. She continued her studies primarily with Abstract Expressionists at the New York Studio School. She went on to attend the International School of Art in Umbria, Italy. Mary is represented in several East Coast Galleries. She lives in Naples FL and goes up to Maine in the summer where she and her sister own The QuietSide Gallery.

Teaching art workshops keeps me humble. I am always learning. I dive deep in order to understand. I try to summarize what I have learned so it is relevant to others. I have been fortunate to have studied art at Cornell University, New York Studio School, International School of Art as well as attending many workshops. But lets face it, the real education is what happens in the studio looking, discovering, experimenting, and trying new things. Mary is a sought after instructor of professional painting classes. Her workshops are enthusiastically attended here at the Center. “Expressive Florals l and ll” and “Color” are a few of her popular programs.

After having an amazing healing experience under chiropractic care, Dr. Michele decided to become a chiropractor.

It was during her studies at Northwestern College of Chiropractic in Bloomington, Minnesota that she learned about Network Spinal and began receiving this care. After graduation from Chiropractic school in 1997, she moved to Bonita Springs, Florida to practice and received post-graduate certification and training in Network Spinal, Dr. Michele opened her own practice in 1999.

Her reasons for choosing to practice Network Spinal are very personal. Although regular chiropractic is about better healing, Network Spinal is about growing as an individual. While chiropractic helped with her pain, NS improved her entire quality of life.

Dr. Michele is also a singer. She sings professionally around the Naples and Fort Myers area in several choirs and at Temple Shalom as a substitute cantorial soloist.

Dr. Michele regularly attends Network healing programs and seminars. She incorporates other innovative techniques into her practice as well. Dr. Michele is honored to serve the people in her community.

Michelle is an expert space holder with a deep passion for guiding women through movement.  She has been teaching intuitive movement since 2007.  She creates transformative spaces where women can connect to their intuition, explore archetypal energies and awaken authentic expression.

Artist, Mindy Lighthipe is passionate about getting out into the natural world and discovering the beauty in every rock, stream and forest. With this passion she carefully studies her subjects in their environment. Her paintings evolve by collecting sketches, taking color notes and using her digital photo references as materials to create her works of art.
Mindy uses a variety of techniques to create her bold imagery. She carefully and accurately draws her compositions often creating full detailed drawings in pencil before going onto color. Mindy is not shy when it comes to color application. She paints in watercolor, gouache, colored pencil, and Pan Pastels. It is not uncommon for her to break traditional and classic rules combining techniques to create her unique and breath taking style.

Mindy graduated from Kean University with a BFA in Studio Arts and a MA in Art Education- Magna cum laude. She received her 210 hour certification from the New York Botanical Gardens in Botanical Illustration. After graduating she went on to teach over 20 different classes in their Botanical Art Program and developed a 250 hour certificate in Natural Science Illustration.

Miranda Silano is the head improv instructor and the Co-Chair for Improv Comedy Arts with Steve Cobb at Arts Bonita. She is a regular professional improviser with the Bonita Improv Group (big), which performs regularly at Arts Bonita, and has years of experience performing across the southeastern United States. She has had the opportunity to perform and take workshops with professional improvisers across the country, and has performed in the Countdown Improv Festival (with Steve Cobb in the group “Our Daughters’ Friend”), the largest improv festival in the United States. Miranda is the instructor for the youth and adult improv classes at Arts Bonita, organizes workshops with guest professional improvisers, and leads the free improv jam sessions at Arts Bonita.

In addition to her improv experience, Miranda has over ten years of performance experience with musicals, straight plays, and staged and concert readings. She actually got her start in theatre at Arts Bonita over ten years ago in high school, and performed across the southeastern United States in performances and vocal competitions. She was in Arts Bonita’s production of “Titanic the Musical” and is the stage manager for “Dear Evan Hansen” at Arts Bonita. She has taught the youth classes for Musical Theatre, Intro to Theatre Workshop, Theatre Workshop, and Acting for the Camera at Arts Bonita.

Miranda believes that anyone, of any ability, background, or age, can become a great performer. Whether they see themselves being spontaneous in improv or acting in praised musicals, she believes that with the right guidance and discipline, anyone can achieve their performance dreams. She aims to create a comfortable and open space for her youth and adult students to engage with their creative side and become confident performers and individuals. The most rewarding part for Miranda is watching her students step out of their shells, gain confidence and life skills, and grow into talented performers.

Nicole Gonzalez is a ceramic artist and recent graduate of  FGCU whose work explores connection to nature, heritage, and the intuitive experience of working with clay. Originally from Venezuela, her background and personal experiences deeply influence her artistic practice. She has worked with clay since high school and continues to develop her practice through studio work, academic study, and participation in national ceramic conferences, receiving recognition for her work both academically and nationally. Drawn to the peaceful and meditative qualities of clay, her work is inspired by moments spent in the Florida outdoors observing natural textures, landscapes, and quiet environments, translating those experiences into ceramic forms that reflect belonging, care, and connection to the earth.

Patrick Mahoney is originally from Natick, Massachusetts and currently resides in Naples, Florida. Patrick received a bachelors degree in Computer Science and an associates in electronics that helped hone his soldering skills for Stained Glass. Patrick learned the art of stained glass from his father, Don. Patrick works in both lead and copper foil techniques, and has done many commissioned pieces from cabinet door inserts to sidelight windows to standalone statement pieces. Patrick has a passion to make colorful and intricately detailed work that inspires and enchants the viewer, and loves the opportunity to continue this time-honored craft by passing on its practice to aspiring artists.

After retiring from her career as an oncology nurse, she discovered that while she loved her work, the challenging days required a creative outlet to help her unwind. This led her to enroll in a stained glass class at her local high school, a decision she considers one of her best. When she moved to Florida in 2010, she brought along a box of scrap glass that she realized could be perfect for mosaics, and through a neighbor’s introduction to the Bonita Center for the Arts, she enrolled in a five-week mosaic class in 2013 and never looked back. The following year, she tried fused glass and finally found her perfect artistic medium. Since retirement, she has immersed herself in numerous fused glass courses and began assisting at the studio, eventually becoming qualified to teach the art form herself under the guidance of two dedicated instructors. She emphasizes that fused glass offers endless learning opportunities, and her faculty chair continues to expand her knowledge and skills in this ever-evolving craft.

Richard Kirk is an oil painter living in Naples, Florida. Richard’s current paintings are whimsical and playful, but he has worked extensively as an illustrator and portrait painter. In addition to his work as a painter and illustrator, he is a dedicated painting instructor. Richard teaches classes at both the Naples Art Institute and Arts Bonita. His classes have included Advanced Oil and Acrylic Painting, Portrait Painting, Beginning Drawing and Figure Drawing. Richard studied illustration at Palomar College in San Marcos, California and established his illustration business in Boston, Massachusetts. His illustration clients included Dexter Shoes, Fidelity Investment, RGA Publishing, Cahners Publishing and Harvard Magazine, to name a few. In addition, Richard has written and self-published four books designed to help his students learn the basics of drawing, painting, portrait painting and color theory.

His fundamental belief about painting shapes his work and his teaching: “Creating a painting does not make me an artist. Artists create something extraordinary from three primary elements: experience, knowledge and ability. Until I am able to pull instantly from those three primary elements, I am a student. Nevertheless, my taking pride in being a student moves me closer to being an artist.”

Rinny first touched clay in college in 1962. She received her BA in ceramics from the University of Miami and completed her graduate work at Antioch College, The Maryland Institute of Art, and the Penland School of Crafts. Rinny ran the Ceramic Department at Edison College, Ft. Myers for 10 years and also taught at FGCU.

Rob Dworkin graduated from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University with a degree in Fine Arts, where he developed a strong foundation in sculpture, material exploration, and studio practice. Over the years, he has worked in a variety of mediums, always drawn to the balance between craftsmanship and experimentation. Currently, he is focused on teaching ceramics while continuing to develop more utilitarian and classic pottery forms. His work explores the relationship between functionality, surface, and process, with a particular interest in glaze development and the timeless qualities of handmade pottery.

https://artvoyagedesign.com/rudina-hyshmeri/

I’m completely drawn to clean, intense, vivid colors… my pastel paintings are filled with them.

It amazes and humbles me, how a dust covered canvas in an old art store can be transformed, with a little color, shape, and focus, into a valued work of art, proudly displayed in a home, office, or cottage, and will probably be passed down from generation to generation. My Artistic Mission is to create unique paintings to enhance your living space and brighten your world. My Teaching Mission is to unlock a desire within, to join me on a pathway towards Pastel Passion.

We can’t improve a Sunset, a Beach Scene, or an Everglade Landscape… but we can use Shadows, Highlights, Reflections, and a bit of panache, to make them our own. I have been drawing people, places, and animals, all my life, attended the prestigious CMU School of Art to continue my training… took a 35-year hiatus, and now I’m back… back with excitement, an enthusiasm, a ‘passion’ if you will. Let’s Paint!

Sherry Dean is excited to be teaching watercolor classes. She believes watercolor is a medium that is fun, relaxing, creative, and very accessible to everyone. Her goal is for students to have a wonderful time, leave with art they are proud of, and further their love of creating.

A full-time resident of Naples originally from Columbus, Ohio, Sherry spent the past 15 years working for City Government for City Councils—work she found very rewarding. Her hobbies include cooking for family and friends, reading, exercising, painting, and pickleball. She also volunteers at NCH as a Snuggler in the NICU.

Sherry looks forward to meeting new people and sharing her art.

Shirley began her professional art career in 2000 in the Washington, DC area.

Proficient in numerous art mediums her favorite subjects include landscapes, brilliant sunsets, nautical scenes and wildlife that express her enjoyment of nature and passion for artistic realism. She recently discovered the challenge of watercolor painting on black paper for a dramatic non-traditional approach to watercolor painting but maintains her passion for traditional painting.

Her art has won numerous awards and has been featured in major publications, exhibitions, and galleries from New Jersey to Florida. Commission work includes illustrations for a world-wide public relations firm, local businesses, and individual collectors.

Shirley is the Founder of Harbour View Gallery, Cape Coral, FL and enjoys membership status in the Southwest Florida Watercolor Society, the Working Artists Forum (Easton, MD) where she is the Membership Chair, and The Artists’ Gallery and Chestertown River Arts both in Chestertown, MD.

She is a four-time juried artist for the prestigious Plein Air Easton Local Color exhibition in Easton, Maryland.

Shirley teaches painting at Arts Bonita, the Alliance for the Arts, Fort Myers, and for Women of Watercolor, Naples, Florida. She is a frequent juror and judge for various art venues.

In 2010 she was nominated for the Southwest Florida annual Angels of the Arts, Arts Organization Leader of the Year Award for creating Harbour View Gallery and spearheading the first annual 2010 “Paint the Cape” plein air competition and exhibition. She was one of seven Cape Coral artists selected for the 2013 Alliance of the Arts Annual Art Studio Tour.

Shirley and her husband David maintain residences in Cape Coral, Florida and the eastern shore of Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay.

Shakti Barnhill is a Creative Consultant, bestselling author, yoga educator, Reiki practitioner and founder of Know Thy Body. She works with both individuals and businesses to bring greater clarity, creativity, body awareness and purposeful action to their lives and work. 

Susan Berry has been a glass artist for over forty years and has taught at Arts Bonita for the past six years. Her love of glass began with a year-long study in stained glass and later warm glass technique, to include glass fusing and bead making. In the summer months, Susan teaches stained glass and mosaic classes at the Thousand Islands Art Center (TIAC) in Clayton NY and was the first-place recipient of the Catherine C. Johnson award for her submission to Along the River’s Edge exhibit.

Recently, Susan was the Spotlight Artist for the TIAC and her interview can be found on YouTube.

Tammy DeCaro is a self-taught artist from Naples, Florida. She was formally trained in clay arts including wheel throwing, hand building and sculpture. Over the years, her art experience has expanded to include fused glass, jewelry, resin, mixed media, fluid art, and resin. She holds a MSM and BSM in business and in 2022, resigned from 25 years of healthcare leadership to focus on art and healthcare consulting for long term care providers.

As a full time artist, Tammy exhibits in 12-15 art festivals in the Florida area each year. She is sought after for fluid art painted lazy susan’s and has become known as “The Lazy Susan Lady” locally. Her best sellers are large canvases painted with fluid art techniques and large beach resin pieces. She completed a large commercial contract last fall for 15 8’ beach resin pieces and 15 matching mirrors in resin for a condo building on the beach.

Tammy teaches at Arts Bonita using mixed media techniques to create abstract art on canvas, wood panels, and resin art. Her inspiration comes from nature, emotions, or an emotion she wants the viewer to feel when looking at the art.

She provides art instruction in several locations for private groups, corporate team building events, and art centers in SW Florida. She won the Juror’s Choice award at the Rookery Bay Natural Selections Painting exhibit in November 2021 for a tactile beach piece created with resin.

Tammy’s art can be found at art festivals in SWFL during the winter months and at multiple juried exhibitions throughout the SWFL market. She exhibits monthly at Coco Gallery Estero and Coco Gallery Naples.

As a public high school teacher for 33 years, Terrie served as Director of Student Activities as well as Art Department head and coordinator of the Advanced Placement Program in Art. Her expertise was in curriculum development and pilot programs in the arts that served as models for art programs statewide. Terrie studied stone carving with the master stone sculptor at the Sharon Gainsberg Studios. An accomplished artist, Terrie has exhibited work in watercolor, clay and stone, and is currently pursuing her passion for stone carving and teaching at Arts Bonita.