General Manager
Knox has over 10 years experience in Design and Digital Marketing as Creative Director in a small business environment. Knox holds a Bachelor of Design from Toronto Metropolitan University. Knox volunteers in Kitchener-Waterloo with the 2SLGBTQ+ community. His hobbies include Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop board games and hopes to get even more nerdy tattoos. Knox is excited to bring his experience and enthusiasm to the role of General Manager for Artshine.
Program Coordinator
Alice is an Art Historian and Educator with over six years of experience creating and managing arts programs. She holds a Master’s degree in Art and Visual Culture from the University of Guelph, where she participated in various research projects aimed at advancing and understanding the impacts of art education and methodologies for both children and adults. Alice is passionate about community building, accessibility, fostering creativity, TTRPGs, video games, and baking muffins. She is excited to help expand artistic and creative opportunities for all through Artshine!
Sales & Operations Assistant
Joseph Daniel is a creative professional, music producer, and multidisciplinary artist with professional experience in promotion, media, fundraising, graphic design, tutoring, and more. Joseph holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Film Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University and is deeply passionate about the arts. Born to a family of creatives, Joseph has been involved in various artistic communities in the Waterloo Region since childhood, from visual arts to the theatre to the local music scene. His hobbies include writing music and lyrics, making art, watching movies, playing video games, reading, cooking, staying active, and spending time with his friends and family.
Founder/CEO of Artshine
Paul started on this journey with his
first job creating a mural at a Youth Centre working with the youth there.
There he saw firsthand the positive impact that art programs can have. One of his mural painters had an amazing talent but had never had the opportunity to show it.
The pride this young person felt when ever visitors praised the mural was life changing. He saw him grow and succeed, getting his high school diploma and a job. This convinced him to bring art education to all of his social work roles, using it to create a safe healing space for his clients. What frustrated him though was the lack of consistent funding for art supplies and education in social programs.
He learned early in life and in
social work that money goes to essentials and there is rarely any left for art supplies or lessons. Still, he persevered and found the resources to make my art programs happen. What finally broke his resolve was a federally funded gang prevention program for youth. He worked with the at-risk youth in the program
helping them break the cycle of addiction and make better choices. He helped them open their own art studio and run their own art shows. These young people were able to create art while meeting with their counsellors, building confidence
and healing through expression. Some were able to sell their art. The program predictably lost its funding and the studio had to be shut down. Paul was so frustrated with the system at this point that he stepped away from social work. He changed his focus to finding a way to raise money for arts programs by starting a business. Determined to solve this money
problem Paul established a consistent funding model by selling after school programs and workshops through Artshine. He then took the profits from Artshine and put them into the Arts4All foundation. Now through Arts4All he and his team provide scholarships, and free art programs at community centers, schools, shelters, care homes, and prisons. Though Paul is now an entrepreneur, he still supports social services. Still giving people the opportunity to heal through a creative outlet and to build confidence by learning new skills.
He just expanded access to his art programs to more people, giving everyone the opportunity to
participate and take their minds off their struggles and take a much-needed break from their screens.
Paul's favorite quote is: "When You Have More Than You Need, Build A Longer Table Not A Higher Fence"
Sales Representative
Emilija completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Waterloo and is currently in her final year of the Bachelor of Education program at Wilfrid Laurier University, specializing in French as a Second Language. She has been working with children in various capacities throughout her life and has developed a strong passion for child education and development. Dedicated to creating meaningful learning experiences, she strives to inspire and motivate students through creativity and expression. With Artshine, she is excited to bring engaging programs to schools and communities that foster both growth and joy in children.
Logistics Coordinator
Wayne values creativity and connection above all else. He is from the East coast and is a graduate of the Film & Video Production program at the College of the North Atlantic. During school, his greatest strengths were project management and video editing. He moved to Ontario after graduating and has worked with bold and innovative companies ever since. Wherever there's opportunity to grow as an artist and make an impact in the community is where he'll seek to go. Hobbies include illustration, writing, photography, and watching/talking all about movies!
Wayne's favourite T.V. show growing up? Fresh Prince of Bel-Air!
Waterloo Ambassador
Joanna is excited to join the Artshine team! With a background in Child & Youth work, as well as a love for creative projects and crafts, Artshine is a perfect fit. Before having children,Joanna spent years traveling and meeting people, and seemed to pick a new craftor creative project wherever she went. With her many years experience workingwith children, Joanna has seen a lot of value in letting children and youthexpress themselves in creative ways. After working in group homes and a youth rehab facility, it became very obvious how therapeutic the arts can be. In her spare time, Joanna can be seen on walksin the forest, playing board games, or visiting with friends and family. Shealso loves digging in the garden, playing with her goats, doing crafts, or learning new languages.
Ottawa Ambassador
Robbin has loved the visual arts her entire life and has finally decided to pursue her passion professionally. A recent graduate of the Illustration and Concept Art program at Algonquin College, she is now a freelance illustrator bringing her dreams, and the dreams of others, to life. A huge animal lover, Robbin’s artwork – using both traditional and digital media - often centres around the natural world and both mundane and fantastical creatures. She is beyond excited to share her passion for creativity with children and inspire them to be themselves, to explore artistic expression, and to have fun!
Niagara Ambassador
Nina loves and strongly supports the development and growth of our youth today. She loves connecting with children and being there to uplift them with achieving their goals and dreams. Nina is currently studying French at Brock with hopes of becoming a teacher in the future. She enjoys art, as it was a huge part of her childhood growing up, and would love to teach it to kids and young adults, while providing the ultimate safe space for them, as Nina’s teachers did for herself.
Nova Scotia Ambassador
Excited to be a part of the Artshine community, Clare is proud to be from Porters Lake Nova Scotia. She grew up always searching for ways to be creative often attending art classes in her community and exploring different mediums. Her favorite being carving and printing with linoleum blocks. She ran many seasons of summer camps during her high school years and is so happy to work with children again. Clare currently runs her own small business Found Eastbound, refinishing furniture and curating vintage collections for the Four Points Vintage Market located in Blockhouse NS. During the holiday season Clare enjoys painting portraits for her loved ones of what they love the most, their pets!
Clare is excited to bring a fun, dynamic energy to the Artshine Instructor Role.
Clares favorite movie? How to Train Your Dragon!
Niagara Ambassador
Tamara is a passionate creative explorer, delighting in finding new and exciting forms of art, crafting, and creativity everyday The world surrounding us is full of much beauty and she draws her inspiration from nature, incorporating sustainable practices, recycling, and making her own art supplies into her work. She is passionate about teaching and spreading the joy of art into the lives of those around her.
The feeling that drives her art and creativity is a desire to give someone a moment. A moment to think, to slow down, to savour. To give the gift of time even if it is a minute in a person's day.
She Is passionate about painting in all forms, colours, patterns and all things they apply to, and has been a multidisciplinary artist, maker, and creative since she was young child. A passion she loves sharing with a new generation, and beyond.
GTA & Hamilton Ambassador
Coming with humour, joy, and a most sacred love for uniqueness, Caroline is the hybrid instructor that blends an anthropology background to her current career as a portraitist, illustrator, and wall art painter.
Emerging from a blissful six years in the French traditional sphere of education, she's further developed her connection with children of all ages by doing daily collective art masterpeices, bathing ears and minds in sounds that take the creation process to roleplaying levels. "Natural order comes from a human whose senses are engaged in creating...", and it's all about bringing a higher sense of appreciation for self, as art is this meeting sone within, that eases your ability to choose what you want to do, in harmony with who you are. Always.
So wave your magic wands everyone, because you are ageless. You are good. You are everything this world ever was curious to meet.
Caroline's favourite cereal? Dry Cheerios with raw olive oil and herbs!
Toronto Ambassador
Artshine Instructor | Simon is a dedicated hockey coach and music producer with a deep passion for creativity and mentorship. With years of experience guiding young athletes on the ice and crafting original music in the studio, he believes creativity is a powerful outlet for self-expression and personal growth. He is passionate about teaching and loves to inspire the next generation. He believes that art has the power to inspire, connect, and heal. When he's not coaching or producing tracks, you can find him cheering on the Montreal Canadiens!
Artshine Instructor
Tina has a background working in schools with children of all ages. She would often be found in the school’s art room creating and prepping tools for kids with special needs, knowing that through making and creating children can learn in their own unique way. She believes that art, like education, can and should be universal. She is thrilled to join a company that makes art accessible for so many.
Tina is a mom of two very artsy little girls. In her spare time, she enjoys using pastels, baking, and being out in nature.
Accessible Program Instructor & Curriculum Creator
Monica has loved art, especially drawing, since she could hold a pencil. For Monica, it has always been the best form of expression and conduit for her imagination. Her love for working with children led her to acquire a bachelor's degree in education.
It was through Artshine that Monica not only got to use her two favorite skills, but she also discovered a passion for working with people of all ages with disabilities and special needs. Through these programs everyone is able to let their creativity loose and accomplish something beautiful, and Monica is proud and grateful to be a part of this process.
Monica's favourtie cereal? Honey bunches of oats!
Artshine Instructor
Kris aims to illuminate the powerful interconnectedness between creativity and mental well-being. Through hands-on experiences and heartfelt storytelling, Kris creates more than just moments, she creates feelings that linger. She believes art has the ability to ground us, move us, and heal us! Kris can’t wait to grow, connect, and make magic with all the bright smiles to come.
Artshine Instructor
Excited to be a member of the Artshine community, Becky brings a wealth of training and experience to the team. With multiple degrees in the areas of illustration, child development, special education, and applied behaviour analysis, Becky is looking forward to working with a variety of individuals and sharing her love of art!
Artshine Instructor
Trinity is a student at the high school of Waterloo Oxford. She has been apart of the painting, photography, graphic design and animator courses. She has experienced many kinds of art mediums. Acrylic painting is her favourite but she is open to the many different kinds of painting including, oil painting, and watercolours. Trinity is very passionate about working with kids and loves to see their creativity!
Artshine Instructor
She originates from Quebec but recently moved to Ontario. She’s a multidisciplinary artist but her main skills are in painting and drawing. Owner of a small business, she believes art is a wonderful way to express yourself and your emotions and turn it into something beautiful. That’s why she joined Artshine! She hopes that by teaching art to kids, she can help them express themselves by using their creativity.
Artshine Instructor
Renee has always loved to draw, even as a child. Creating different ideas and watching as it comes together. It was no surprise that she went to art school at Sheridan college and later on to Algonquin college for animation for television.
Working with children in the Artshine program has been a fun, creative way to motivate in a positive way. Renee considers herself a kid at heart, so we all can be silly! On the side she also oil paints and is part of a theatre group in her community. Renee says that "the “arts” have always been in my blood".
Renee's favourite book and movie? Lord of the Rings!
Artshine Instructor & Curriculum Creator
Sonia has a lifelong devotion to art and children, starting her journey with art at the age of 2. Sonia has illustrated over nine children’s books. Her most recent book earned her the 2016 mom’s picks award and a bronze Moonbeam award.
Sonia has earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a diploma in Early Childhood Education specializing in inclusion, supporting children with special needs. Sonia sees her role at Artshine as a perfect opportunity to connect both of her passions. She loves the art the children create through the program and she loves the positive outcome the art creates for the children.
Sonia's favourite T.V. show growing up? Looney Toons!
Artshine Instructor
Ari is an undergraduate student studying at University of Waterloo and is thrilled to be involved with Artshine! Having spent a lot of her childhood with arts, she specifically loves watercolour painting and origami. Ari recognizes that children should express themselves freely and differently through art by using various art techniques and methods, and she encourages them to be as creative as they can be.
Ari's favourite T.V. show growing up? Friends!
Artshine Instructor
Paige is an interdisciplinary artist with over seven years of experience designing and leading arts education and community-engagement programs. She holds a Master’s degree in Studio Arts from the University of Waterloo, where her artistic research was supported by the Canadian Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the British Columbian Arts Council. Paige brings enthusiasm, laughter, and care to every art classroom, creating an accessible and exciting learning environment for all her students.
Artshine Instructor
Megan has always had a passion for the visual arts especially painting.
She loves working at Artshine because of her love for children as well as teaching and the arts. Megan hopes to travel and to continue to explore her creativity and art across the globe.
Megan's favourite T.V. show growing up? Scooby Doo!
Artshine Instructor
Shannon Buaba is a creative educator, life coach, and writer who is passionate about supporting children through art and play. With years of experience in teaching and childcare, Shannon believes art is a powerful tool for emotional regulation and strengthening, giving kids a safe space to express themselves and build confidence. She brings compassion, creativity, and energy into every space, helping children learn, grow, and shine.
Artshine Instructor
Stefania holds a Masters Degree in Foreign Languages and Literature from the University of Torino, Italy, and has over fifteen years experience in education and language instruction. She sees art as a way for people to connect with each other, learn about themselves and stay grounded. When she’s not working, Stefania can be found oil painting in her home studio, running outdoors, enjoying chocolate gelato or spending time with her beloved dog, Coconut.
Artshine Instructor
George is excited to shift his leadership experience from the baseball world into the classroom. As a former Director, General Manager, and MLB Scout, George has honed his skills in mentorship & team building, while believing creativity grows through curiosity, encouragement, and exploration. George aims to foster classrooms where every student feels inspired to try new ideas and discover their artistic voice.
Artshine Instructor
Shree has always been intrigued with arts. Whether it be crocheting, painting, jewelry making, pottery, sculpting, she has always found a way to dabble in each and every art criteria. Since she was a kid from Mauritius, every beach trip turned into a way to collect seashells and make something out of them. She has been a tutor for over three years constantly working with kids where her love for teaching grew. When she is not at work you can spot her in her garage making something crazy art piece or dragging her friends and family around Michael’s for some next art idea!
Artshine Instructor
Growing up, Renée was always doodling and sketching on any paper she could find—even on the margins of important tests. Now a master’s graduate in history and a museum interpreter who leads student tours, Renée still finds joy in creative expression through abstract doodling and colouring. She’s thrilled to join the Artshine team as a Francophone instructor, where she hopes to inspire children to see that art goes beyond coloring within the lines.
Artshine Instructor
Maya teaches art in the GTA, Hamilton, Barrie & Niagara regions.
Artshine Instructor
Aline has dedicated most of her career to working with children and teachers in diverse communities, including those that are under-resourced. With a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s in Management, she brings both practical and academic experience to her work. Her focus has been on supporting children in vulnerable situations, helping create environments where they feel safe, valued, and empowered to learn. Over the years, Aline has seen how art can offer children and youth a simple yet powerful way to express themselves, feel better, and be creative. When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find Aline painting with her kids or exploring new ways to bring imagination and play into the classroom.
Artshine Instructor
Trevor is an emerging visual artist with a passion for mentoring and encouraging. He loves to create with colour and expression, currently working with acrylic paint and fine drawings. He believes that creating art has therapeutic and rewarding effects. You can find him cheering for the Ottawa Senators during his free time—even though they haven't made the playoffs in six years!
Artshine Instructor
Nahla Issa is a self-taught visual artist who has been dedicated to painting since 2021, sharing work both locally and internationally. Deeply passionate about teaching, Nahla is committed to transferring artistic knowledge and empowering others through creativity. She strongly believes in the healing power of art and advocates for its accessibility, especially for children and the elderly. Through her work, Nahla aims to create meaningful connections and inspire personal growth in others.
Artshine Instructor
Jeta has been an artist ever since she was a child, and her passion for it has never faded. Although she is now a University student studying Criminology, she never let her love for the visual arts go. During her free time she continues to pursue her art and experiment with new mediums. Her favourite mediums to work with are water colour and graphite, although she has started moving towards digital art as well. Besides art, Jeta is an avid reader and writer. Her favourite genres are thriller and romance, her favourite book of all time is Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
Artshine Instructor
Serenity is currently doing her undergraduate in architectural studies at Carleton University. She loves exploring mediums and ideas and has worked on projects ranging from murals to oil pastels to embroidery. She loves engaging with her community through art and finds that there is no better way to do that than teaching it!
Artshine Instructor
Elly is originally from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, and is studying to become an elementary school teacher. She has a deep love for the arts and can often be found making music or writing. Journeying with youth and witnessing their creativity and sense of wonder come alive through art has brought her so much joy. Elly is so excited to be joining the Artshine team!
Artshine Instructor
Katelynne is an Nova Scotia-based artist/illustrator currently residing in Halifax, ON. She recently graduated from the University of Toronto’s Art and Art History program where she specialized in drawing and painting. Katelynne's work in her artistic practice is often autobiographical, discussing topics such as body positivity and self care.
Katelynne is a firm believer that everyone is an artist—no matter the skill, practice, etc. What Katelynne loves about Artshine is that she gets to share my passion for art with children, as well as inspire the artist in every single person she teaches. The amount of creativity the children have in the Artshine program amazes her, as every child has their own interpretation on each project they do together. It’s inspirational, not only to them but they inspire me as well. Katelynne hopes to continue to spread the message that art is for everyone, and continue to inspire each child.
Katelynne's favourite movie? Encanto!
Artshine Instructor
Karen is always in search of new ways to explore her creativity. From writing, sketching, crafting and fiber arts, there is always something new worth discovering! As a child, she was always doodling, and you can still find her doing so! She looks forward to sharing her passions, and guiding young minds to express themselves through whatever imaginative pursuit they choose.
Artshine Instructor
Alyssa is completing her Bachelor of Education at Western University and will be graduating this December. She grew up in Moncton, New Brunswick, and is excited to be back working in her community. Alyssa speaks both English and French and loves finding creative ways to make learning hands-on and meaningful. She believes that art is one of the best ways for students to express themselves, explore new ideas, and build confidence. In the classroom, Alyssa brings a warm and energetic approach, always encouraging students to experiment, have fun, and see the beauty in creating something of their own.
Artshine Instructor
Hanna Koval, originally from Ukraine and now residing in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a versatile artist and educator with a strong academic background. She is deeply passionate about nurturing creativity and finds joy in teaching individuals of all age groups, from children to adults, helping them tap into their artistic potential. Hanna firmly believes that drawing is a skill that significantly improves with practice and that everyone has the capacity to create remarkable works of art.
Artshine Instructor
Originally from Ontario, Jordan has completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability Studies and International Development at Dalhousie University in Halifax! Within her studies, there are recurring themes of community building, equity and inclusion, concepts she is excited to explore throughout Artshine programs. Jordan has always been passionate about combining creativity with learning and is often found experimenting with new art mediums or creating projects for friends and family. Specifically, Jordan enjoys the art of crocheting, creating items such as clothing, blankets, and decorations. Discovering creative outlets to express oneself and learn new skills is an ideology Jordan strongly believes should be incorporated in everyone's life, especially youth. Jordan is thrilled to be a part of the Artshine instructor team, and she is looking forward to facilitating positive environments full of endless possibilities!
Artshine Instructor
Mapenzi is excited to join the Artshine team! With a background in Biochemistry and years of experience tutoring and mentoring youth, she is passionate about creating spaces where children can grow, explore, and express themselves through art. She has always loved creativity, whether through painting, crafts, or community work, and values the way art can bring people together and inspire confidence. She is now embarking on a new adventure of learning how to sew as part of her creative journey. In her spare time, she enjoys painting, spending time with family, staying active in her church and community, and exploring new ways to make a positive impact.
Artshine Instructor
Gillianis currently doing her master’s in art education at NSCAD in Halifax. From Montreal, she is fluent in French and English and is excited to be joining the Artshine team as a French instructor. Passionate about arts and crafts and the accessibility of art education, she hopes to be able to share the joy of creating through Artshine.
Artshine Instructor
As a lifelong artist, Ayerica believes supporting the growth and creativity of children leads to innovative, confident, and fulfilled adults.
Ayerica is a graduate from NSCAD University and has her Bachelor of Education, yet it is the more recent years raising her two children that has truly taught her the most! Seeing the world through the curiosity of her children’s eyes has led Ayerica to believe that the willingness to “play” and experiment is truly what builds resilient and happy children.
Ayerica spends her days working out of her at home studio, focusing on oil paint and watercolour. When she is not in her studio she can be found exploring in nature with her family or snuggling a cat or two with a cup of tea!
Northern Ontario Advisor & Instructor
Julie has been drawing for as long as she can remember, and her notebooks from grade school to university were always full of doodles. She loves drawing and painting nature and all of it it's beauty. Julie is a retired teacher and taught art classes from grade 5 to 8 for most part of her career. She loves to see the glow of satisfaction in her student’s eyes when they realise they create something beautiful. She believes
that if you believe in them, they can do anything, and loves Mark Twain quote that says: “They did not know it was impossible so they did it”. During her teaching
career Julie also directed many school plays. Providing students with the opportunity to express their creativity is very important to her. Julie is a country girl and the grandma of 7 beautiful grandkids.
French Program Consultant
Maya is happy to join the Artshine team as instructor in both Anglophone and Francophone schools. Originally from Kitchener-Waterloo, Maya completed a BA in Fine Arts specializing in printmaking from the University of Waterloo. She then moved to Montreal seeking adventure, creativity, and culture. While there, Maya finished an MA in Art Education from Concordia University and was also a member of the Atelier Circulaire printmaker collective. Her work, which plays with line, colour and texture, has been exhibited in group shows in Ontario and in Montreal. Maya enjoy being creative in every aspect of my life, whether it be cooking, crafting, teaching or spending time with her two artists-in-the-making at home!
Maya believes that education happens everywhere and can be for everyone. For Maya, teaching the visual arts embodies this belief: art education is an asset to all by providing them with a common cultural language. Not all students will become artists, but by being exposed to a variety of educational experiences including the arts, they will learn that there are many ways of understanding the world around them.
What would Maya do with 1 million dollars? renovate my house, quit my job, donate, and make art!
Curriculum Creator
Stephanie has loved art ever since she was little. She have my Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours Degree from Queen's University and has been working in Arts Education.
Stephanie began teaching with Artshine in 2013 and immediately fell in love with the program. The focus was on process rather than perfection - teaching students to use their imagination and develop their technical skills in fun and engaging ways. When she's not teaching with Artshine, Stephanie runs her own art studio. Her work can be viewed at Paula White Diamond Gallery in Waterloo and at Canvas Gallery in Toronto.
For more info about me and my work visit: www.stephaniefehrenbach.ca
Curriculum Creator
Alanah is bear clan from Oneida Nation of the Thames. Her middle name is Astehtsi Otsistohkwa, which means Morningstar in her family's language. Art is very important to her and is a way to for her to share her culture.
Check out Alanah's art: https://morningstardesigns.ca/
Training Consultant & Adult Event Instructor
Art has always been a hobby of Taryn's. Throughout her children and teen years, she studied fine art and learned to work with a variety of mediums. In her adult years, Taryn put her education and passion for visual art to use by teaching through Artshine's non-profit sister company, Arts4All. Taryn loves working with people who do not necessarily like art but are will to try something new. She is often surprised at how many non-artists love learning new art skills and using that creative part of their brain. Art continues to bring Taryn joy and relaxation, and she tries to encourage others to give it a try and be open to the positive feelings art inspires.
Taryn's go-to coffee order? An americano with steamed milk and a tiny bit of something sweet!
Curriculum Consultant
Brittany is a part-time high school teacher and has been with Artshine since the beginning! She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Theatre from the University of Guelph and a Bachelor of Education from Brock University.
Brittany started with Artshine teaching programs in various schools and moved into the role of Curriculum Developer for elementary students, adult, and corporate programs. She loves creating projects that inspire and challenge students to bring out their individual creativity. In her spare time, Brittany creates and sells custom artwork, and hand lettered calligraphy. She also loves to paint, draw and make messy memories with her two children!
Brittany's favourite T.V. show growing up? Buffy the Vampire Slayer!
Program Advisor
Bringing a zeal for community and connection, Erica is thrilled to be joining the team at Artshine!
Erica is a professional artist and visual arts instructor with a passion for life drawing, character design and expressive art.
Having always been drawn to helping others, Erica has devoted herself to cultivating a career in the arts that positively impacts and aids in her community. For over 10 years Erica has been volunteering and working within social services, including the autism community. Working as a behavioural therapist provided an opportunity to teach visual art to children and youth with developmental disabilities and challenging behaviours. This experience impressed on her the value of creative expression and the importance of accessible art for everyone.
With practical work experience and a background in Illustration, Erica draws on her skills collaborating across disciplines to provide value-driven services to persons of all walks of life.
Her favourite quote: “Worthiness doesn’t have prerequisites.” - Brené Brown
