Introducing our

Art Steps Staff

Each of our talented teachers, carefully hand-chosen by our Director for a kind, warm personality, strong classical artistic painting skills, and enthusiasm for working children, either has a fine art degree such as a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, or is currently working toward one. Every teacher participates in 40 hours of hands-on, project-based artwork training with our Director, plus another 20+ hours in the classroom with an experienced teacher, to ensure consistent excellence in instruction.

Teachers are supported over time by in-classroom observations and out-of-class artwork reviews by our studio managers, as well as periodic refresher training to keep teaching skills sharp. At Art Steps, we pride ourselves on providing ongoing mentorship to staff, so that every single teacher can truly cultivate his or her passion for passing the time-honored tradition of classical painting skills to the next generation.

All teachers have been fingerprinted and background checked through the FBI and the Department of Justice.

Have you met your child’s teacher? Before and after class, be sure to come in and chat! We love to be in touch with you!

Interested in teaching at Art Steps? Apply Here!

Hilary Key, Director

Hilary Key is the co-founder and CEO of Art Steps, having directed our studios since 1999. Hilary has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition to joyfully running the show, Hilary enjoys watercolor and oil painting, as well as drawing together with her two sons. She also serves as founder and President of our nonprofit outreach program, Bright Artists.

Robin

Robin Bourland, our South County Studio Manager, holds a Bachelor of Fine Art Degree in Drawing and Painting from Cal State Fullerton. Together with her team, she helps keep our Laguna Hills and Costa Mesa locations running smoothly. Robin’s love for art is matched only by her love for children and teaching. With a passion for watercolor, she was drawn to art at a young age through the joy she experienced with Disney movies and children’s books. That youthful spirit and optimism pours out of her in the classroom, creating an effervescent and cheerful environment for children to learn and grow as budding artists themselves. An experienced Head Teacher at our Yorba Linda studio before becoming Studio Manager in Costa Mesa, Robin knows how to run a productive classroom where children have fun!

Chantal

Chantal Hales attended California State University, Fullerton, and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drawing and painting. Chantal specializes in figurative art and has had a lifelong love for school. She has an eclectic working background in customer service, behavioral therapy, instruction, and curating and organizing visual and performing arts shows. That combined with her bubbly and warm demeanor makes Chantal a perfect Art Steps teacher and Yorba Linda Studio Manager!

Hayley

When you call the studio, you are likely to reach our wonderful office administrator and scheduler, Hayley Mazeika. We have searched far and wide for just the right person to fortify our office and serve our families. Hayley is as warm, friendly and helpful as she is detail-oriented. We believe you’ll love working with her as much as we do!

Lora

Lora McWhorter, our Operations Manager, has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in sculpture from California State University, Fullerton. An attentive, caring mentor with a passion for fine art, Ms. Lora sees to it that all studios have what they need. Teaching our world-class fine art program since 2008, she became our studios’ strongest advocate, ensuring that her teachers are well-prepared and equipped to succeed, before moving to the Dallas, Texas area with her husband and young daughter, where she now works remotely. Ms. Lora now oversees operations for all locations as well as our online program, and enjoys participating in illustration curriculum work as well. Her dedication to the well-being of children manifests itself in her warm, kind, welcoming demeanor, as well as her steadfast commitment to ethical and artistic excellence.

Rishica

Friendly, communicative and genuine, Rishica Venkatesh has a strong drive to really get through to kids and enrich their lives through art. After changing her major from science to art, Rishica completed her final year at Cal State University Long Beach. Her passion for art is clear, but her strongest passion may just be helping children. Rishica has already taught children of all ages through Free Arts, a Los Angeles nonprofit benefiting kids who have experienced abuse, neglect, poverty and/or homelessness. We’re excited to foster her dedication to children and love of classical oil painting, as Online Program Manager and Training Specialist.

Emily

If you are a charter school family, you will likely speak with our wonderful back-office math whiz, Emily Tarascio. An outstanding artist with degrees in both Studio Art and Radio-TV-Film, Emily finds that she also loves details and numbers, so she is right at home as Office Manager, running all of our charter accounts and vital back-office processes in our art-rich environment.

Lesdy

Warm, kind-hearted and dedicated, our Curriculum Manager Lesdy Sainz holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration from Cal State Long Beach. After graduating, she expressed her artistic voice through drawing caricatures for Knott’s Berry Farm, Disneyland, and private parties. Working in these family settings encouraged her to inspire arts appreciation for all ages, and to be involved in the art community. Miss Lesdy loves sharing her knowledge of classical, realistic drawing and painting with students. She can light up any room, and has an upbeat sense of humor and fun demeanor with children and teens alike, making her classes irresistible.

Lance

Lance O’Neill graduated Cal State University Long Beach with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drawing and painting. Lance studied Observational Figure Drawing & Painting in college, but is also interested in art that involves a narrative, such as comics and animation. Combining experience in customer service, tutoring and caregiving, Lance excels in being attentive to individual student needs, and in helping to find their own unique interests and strengths. Lance is our Online Program Teacher and Scheduler.

Vanessa

Vanessa Millan has Associate of Arts degrees in Art History and Studio Art, and a Certificate in Media Arts from Bakersfield College. She is currently a Studio Arts major working toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at California State University, Fullerton. Among other artistic projects, Vanessa recently teamed up to create a 30 second stop-motion animation, developing storyboard concepts and editing film with 24 Hour Animation. Talented and hungry for knowledge, Vanessa is absolutely passionate about art and passing her knowledge on to children. Please welcome her to our Laguna Hills studio!

Tara

Tara White was an Art Steps Yorba Linda student in her elementary school years, and we’re proud to have her now as an outstanding member of our teaching team at her home studio. Tara’s early exposure to drawing and painting sparked a lifelong love of fine art and art history, leading her to receive her Master of Arts in Italian Renaissance Art from Syracuse University, after earning her Bachelor of Arts in Art History from California State University, Long Beach. Part of Tara’s studies included living in Italy, where she interacted with classical artworks first-hand; In her role as a gallery attendant and curatorial intern, she also created curriculum and taught students. Ms. Tara brings exceptional warmth and a communicative spirit to each student she teaches, and we are so happy to have her on our team.

Sarah

Sarah Massie, Laguna Hills Assistant Studio Manager, received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a focus in illustration from Cal State Long Beach, and has been a professional artist for over 10 years. While working as a visual merchandiser at the Disneyland Resort, she freelanced in both graphic design and illustration for various companies. Currently, she conducts an art stream throughout the week, talking with her audience about life, and giving art tips when she can to share her love and knowledge of art. Her commitment to staying artistically active has made her a first-class visual artist. On top of it all, Ms. Sarah’s warmth, kindness, thoroughness, sense of responsibility and fun all make her the perfect fine art teacher for our Laguna Hills studio!

Nikki

Bubbly, positive, and fun, Dominique “Nikki” Lafreeda is a welcome addition to our Art Steps Yorba Linda team. While receiving her Bachelor of Fine Art degree in Entertainment Arts and Animation, Ms. Nikki has demonstrated her zest for quirky and unusual experiences by participating in lively art activities such as the Pencil Mileage Club Zine and the Knott’s Scary Farm Into the Fog art show. With skills in digital art as her forte and having studied child development and education, this kind-hearted, fun-loving artist is the perfect teacher for our students today.

Newlyn

As a former tutor in math, english, psychology, art and more, Newlyn Nguyen knows what it means to effectively communicate with kids and teens. With the heart of a leader, Ms. Newlyn has raised funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She has also worked as a teacher’s assistant, co-facilitating and leading a class of 25 students, grades K-3, where she created lesson plans, helped guide student behavior and developed a genuine passion for teaching. Ms. Newlyn’s passion for art education is matched only by her drawing and painting skills. She currently attends Orange Coast College as a business major, while continuing to study art. We warmly welcome her to our Costa Mesa studio!

Monica

Monica Ek Castruitia has taught kids, teens and adults using our award-winning curriculum for over 12 years, 9 of which were spent managing a studio in Los Angeles County. We are fortunate that she has chosen to branch out into our Orange County locations, where her skill and depth of experience are well appreciated, and will benefit our students and staff alike. Monica deeply understands the value of a nurturing environment and parent/student/teacher relationships in fostering the growth of fine artists. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration from Cal State University. Her skills, clear communication, and warm, kind disposition will surely make her a favorite among students and families.

Lillian

Lillian Baker has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Sequential Art from the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she also made the Dean’s List. She also has an Associate’s degree in Narrative Illustration from Orange Coast College, where she was Founder and President of the OCC Illustration Club. A phenomenal representational oil painter, Lillian is also extremely resourceful and creative. A regular participant in conventions such as the Anime Expo, Mini Comics Expo, SacAnime and Anime California, Lillian is an accomplished cartoonist and designer who is sure to connect with our students on a variety of levels. Say hello to Lillian at our Yorba Linda studio!

Leone

Leone Deleon is currently a student at the Laguna College of Art and Design studying Entertainment Design, and aspires to work on kids’ shows as a visual development artist in the animation industry. A strong digital artist, Leone also exhibits skill in sculpture, charcoal, plein air painting and digital 3D design. With fantastic people skills and a great sense of humor, Leone will be helping with Summer Workshops in our Laguna Hills studio, and looks forward to helping foster the next generation of artists.

Leika

Leika Ikuma is an experienced camp counselor, lifeguard, swim instructor and tutor, and loves working with children and teens. She has earned her associate’s degree in Studio Art from Mt. San Antonio College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Illustration from California State University, Fullerton. With a warm, supportive demeanor and an artistically elegant hand, we cannot imagine a more perfect addition to our Yorba Linda team!

Jessica

Jessica McNeil has her bachelor’s degree from Cal State Fullerton, where she has cultivated her love of figurative painting and portraiture. Jessica finds joy in representational painting and drawing for its own sake, and wishes more children could be introduced to the arts. Bright, upbeat, cheerful and sharp, Miss Jessica is a wonderful part of our amazing Art Steps Yorba Linda team!

Joshua

Joshua Padilla has his Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude, in Studio Art from the University of La Verne, and with that, a passion for teaching and lifelong learning. Josh has extensive customer service experience with kids and adults alike from his time at Disneyland Resort, as well as art exhibition and volunteer experience. We are also honored to have him serve as assistant teacher in our after school outreach program, Bright Artists, where he works with kids who normally would never have access to a studio like ours. With a kind, gentle, attentive presence and wonderful, relaxed sense of humor, Josh has already proven to be a wonderful mentor for students in our Yorba Linda studio and beyond.

Haley

Kindhearted and patient with a strong work ethic, Haley Wagner is in the process of achieving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Arts from Orange Coast College. Ms. Haley has developed resilience and savvy through her experience working in a wide variety of customer service settings, including management and childcare. Years of nannying three young children, including one on the autism spectrum, not only has prepared her to work with all kinds of children, but shows that her dedication to kids is unwavering. Look for Ms. Haley’s smiling face at our Costa Mesa studio!

Ha

As someone who has pursued a lifelong love of art against the odds, Ha Ly has a passion for bringing a can-do, encouraging outlook to children. She recently received her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Illustration from California State University, Fullerton, where she graduated summa cum laude. Specializing in digital drawing and painting, Ms. Ha also loves working in pencil, colored pencil and watercolor, and is most interested in children’s book illustration. For Ms. Ha, visual storytelling is a way to inspire and brighten one’s day through art, and she brightens up everyone’s day with her positive spirit and uplifting presence. You can see more of her stunning artwork at www.haphuongly.com.

Gemma

Long-time staff member Gemma Magdaluyo helps all locations as our Training and Support Specialist. Gemma graduated from the Laguna College of Art and Design with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree in Illustration, with emphasis on drawing and painting. Her years of experience allow her to provide support for teacher artwork training, as our Director’s only proxy in this vital role. She also provides phone help directly to parents who call our office, as well as substitute teaching and lending a hand wherever needed at Art Steps. Her passionate commitment to seeing young artists blossom makes us all very lucky to benefit from her ongoing wisdom and support.

Elizabeth

Elizabeth Eadens possesses a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, and a Masters of Fine Art from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Her background as a yoga instructor helps her bring a balanced sense of calm, peace and vibrant energy to her classes, and her particular love of figure painting is evident in her passion for passing the principles of classical realism along to her students. All the while, Miss Elizabeth makes it clear that she cares about every student, as they journey from new to experienced fine artist in their own right. In addition to teaching our award-winning classical drawing and painting program, Elizabeth also serves as the Laguna Hills studio’s Portfolio Prep Mentor. Elizabeth is certified by the College Board to teach Advanced Placement 2-D, 3-D and Design portfolio program.

Cheyla

Highly creative and passionate about digital art and painting, Cheyla Reyes is a Laguna Hills teacher and our Illustrator. Ms. Cheyla is currently attending the Laguna College of Art and Design, where she is studying graphic design and illustration. She is wonderfully communicative and sharp, with artistic talent that is off the charts. She is already a successful fine artist in her own right, and we know she is sure to become someone’s favorite art teacher. Welcome, Ms. Cheyla!

Brittany

Brittany Cotter has an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts & Sciences from Santa Ana College, and is currently working toward her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration and Animation at Cal State University, Fullerton. An experienced cast member character actor at Disneyland, and a stage actor as well, Ms. Brittany brings charm and a sense of magic to those around her — along with a bright, bubbly attitude that radiates positivity. She is also a stage designer for theater, specializing in scenic painting. With her broad range of artistic talent, combined with a sensitivity for the best interests of her students, Ms. Brittany is an ideal Art Steps teacher.

Brendan

Brendan Kendrick attends California State University, Fullerton, majoring in illustration, and has loved the environment at our studio so much, that he has worked as a teacher’s aide for over a year, while hoping to be considered for a teaching position. As it turns out, Brendan, an Eagle Scout with a positive attitude, exceptional patience, and a caring heart, has incredible drawing and painting skills. He admires other artists greatly, and relishes soaking up as much information as he can to keep growing. Brendan delights in working with kids, and sharing his wonderful perspective on the technical aspect of fine art.

Beatrix

After studying Graphic and Interactive Design at Foothill College, Beatrix Colmet Daage is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication and Design at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Ms. Beatrix’s sweet, attentive demeanor, combined with her years of experience with children (providing both preschool and private childcare), serves her focus on attending to students’ needs. Organized and neat, Ms. Beatrix has pursued a wide range of visual art interests, from fine art to merchandising to graphic design, bringing a wealth of new perspectives to the students she teaches. Look for her at the Yorba Linda Art Steps studio.

Arely

Freelance comic book illustrator Arely Martinez completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in Illustration from Cal State Fullerton, as well as Associate of Arts degrees in both Art and Liberal Arts from Santiago Canyon College. Arely previously worked at Blick Art Materials, and interned at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, following a successful run doing portrait caricatures for both Knotts Berry Farm and Disneyland. Arely’s sweet disposition, personally attentive nature, and fastidious pursuit of excellence make her a wonderful addition to our Yorba Linda studio!

Kimilyn

Kimilyn Yoshizowa was born and raised on the island of Maui in Hawaii. She attended art classes at Sabado Studios throughout her childhood and teen years, worked there for a time studied the Ringling College of Art and Design, and graduated from LCAD with a Bachelor’s of Fine Art degree in Game Art. Ms. Kimi loves stylized artwork that is fun and whimsical. She has experience in mural painting, creating both 2D and 3D artwork traditionally and digitally, has created oncept art and worked in illustration both in the U.S. and Japan. With solid industry experience under her belt, Ms. Kimi finds herself passionate about art education and is now thrilled to become more serious about teaching, as well.

Tatum

Tatum Going has been a student at Art Steps since the 8th grade, and is now a student at University of California, Santa Cruz, studying Game Design. Tatum has been a dedicated art student, participating in the Portfolio Prep (now Advanced Study) program for teens, and exhibiting her work in the annual teen art show. Friendly and patient, Tatum is home for the summer, and looks forward to working with our kids by assisting in some of our summer camps this year, and we couldn’t be happier!