Our Team.

Owner & Lead Teaching Artist

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A former public school art teacher, Kate teaches a variety of kids' and adult classes and workshops both in-studio and at local schools, homeschool co-ops, and outside private facilities, and you will see her in the studio every other Saturday during Open Studio hours. She could not have followed her dream to open Nopalera Studios without the help and support of her husband, Pedro, who consistently works as handy man, Sip&Paint assistant, and overall support system when he is not serving the local community as a Sheriff's Deputy.

 

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Teaching Artist

Specializing in Polymer Clay Jewelry & Fiber Arts

A local jewelry maker, quilter, crafter, and owner of "Call Me Susie", Rachel teaches a variety of kids' and adult classes in the studio, specifically Fiber Arts and Polymer Clay Earring workshops. Apart from her classes and workshops, you can see her every Sunday during Open Studio hours.

Teaching Artist & Preschool Specialist

A local crafter and former preschool teacher, Vanessa adds an abundance of new ideas and creative energy to the team. Aside from teaching our preschool art classes, she hosts a variety of workshops including painting, crafting and jewelry making. You can meet Vanessa during open studio hours on Fridays and every other Saturday.

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Teaching Artist and Music Specialist

As a private  flute instructor, voice coach, and music teacher who directs a local children's choir, Cathy brings the priceless element of musical integration to our Summer Kids' Camps, and runs the studio for us when our regular staff is out during Open Studio hours. 

Teaching Artist, Specializing in Watercolor & Architecture

As a self-taught watercolor artist with a degree in architecture and skills in leatherwork and woodwork, Margaret brings a new and exciting set of skills to the studio! She teaches our adult watercolor classes and plans on hosting other in-studio workshops such as leathermaking in the future.

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A local mom and PTO member, Samantha is responsible for opening the door for the studio to teach art to children at local public schools who otherwise would not have art as part of their curriculum.. When she's not volunteering at schools, she helps us out in the studio whenever we need her, and we lovingly refer to her as the Chaos Coordinator and/or Ambassador of Fun.  You may run into her during Open Studio hours when our other staff members are out.