A    B    C    D     E     F     G     H     I     J     K     L     M     N     O     P     Q     R     S     T     U     V     W     X     Y     Z
Artist: Abigail Hall

​Unleash your creativity and dive into a world of artistic exploration with Instructor Abigail! With a passion for art spanning her entire life, Abigail has been teaching at the Chester County Art Association since 2010, guiding students aged 5-18 through a diverse range of classes. From painting and drawing to collage, sewing, embroidery, and more, Abigail's expertise spans a variety of mediums, ensuring a rich and immersive learning experience for her students. But that's not all—Abigail also delves into the enchanting realm of Dungeons and Dragons, crafting her own captivating campaigns for students aged 12 and older. Join us as we embark on exciting adventures, fostering creativity, teamwork, and storytelling in a dynamic and engaging environment. Don't miss out on the creative fun—sign up for our camp and club classes today!
Artist: Amanda Church

My love for crafts developed at an early age.  Over the years, I have made many origami objects, with varying success.  Six years ago, I discovered Modular Origami and became fascinated at the concept of using one folded shape to form limitless forms.  I love the versatility of paper and find it therapeutic to sit and fold and it is a craft that is available to all as there is little outlay and no special equipment required.  It can be done practically anywhere at any time.  Spread joy with paper, not words.
Artist: Autumn Cornell
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Autumn Cornell, also known by her stage name Miss A LeFay, is an accomplished interdisciplinary artist, performer, and educator. Since 2011, she has been captivating audiences with her sultry hoop dance and circus arts performances, renowned for their fluid transitions and expressive style. With thousands of teaching hours to her credit, Autumn has developed a comprehensive program that emphasizes creative expression and movement. She holds a BFA from the Pacific Northwest College of Art and is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer. This unique combination of artistic and fitness expertise makes her classes exceptional, offering an unparalleled approach to exploring the creative process within a sustainable movement practice.
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Artist: Becca Krauss
Website: beccakrauss.art
Instagram: @mosswraith

Meet Becca, a talented illustrator and theatre artist. Having cultivated her skills through classes at CCAA during her upbringing, she is thrilled to return as an instructor. Becca's creative focus revolves around conceptual art and the poignant, everyday moments of life. She proudly holds a degree in Illustration from Moore College of Art and Design, earned in 2021, and has since delved into the captivating world of costume design.
Artist: Beth Clark
Website: bethclark.net

Beth Clark's artistic approach is rooted in the rich tradition of plein-air painting, which emphasizes direct engagement with the landscape. Guided by this tradition, she endeavors to capture the essence of nature through her work, ensuring that her pieces reflect keen observations of the environment with a tangible imprint of her craftsmanship. For Beth, the application of materials—be it oil paint, pastel, or charcoal—is imbued with significance, paralleling the importance of her chosen subjects.
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Central to her practice is the concept of revisiting locations multiple times, allowing for a deeper exploration of familiar motifs. Through this process, Beth finds continuity in her artistic journey, uniting her various techniques and approaches into a cohesive whole. Each return to the same setting unveils new perspectives and nuances, transforming the familiar into an ever-evolving source of inspiration.
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Artist: Chris Chadwick

Chris Chadwick discovered his passion for painting in high school, where he immersed himself in every art class available. This love for creativity led him to pursue a degree in Graphic Design, further honing his skills and knowledge. Eventually, Chris found his true artistic calling in watercolor, a medium that captivates him with its spontaneity and dynamic nature—every brushstroke an adventure.
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As an art instructor, Chris enjoys sharing his journey and expertise with his students. His goal is to make their learning experience as exhilarating and fulfilling as possible, turning potential frustrations into moments of discovery and joy.
Artist: Chris McKinney

Chris McKinney's journey into the world of printmaking commenced during his time as a student at the Chester County Art Association. Amidst a plethora of captivating subjects, it was silk screening that captured his imagination, aligning seamlessly with his fondness for skate and music graphics. Venturing further into his artistic pursuit, he embarked on a BFA program at Penn State, delving deep into various printmaking disciplines, with a particular focus on etching and silkscreen techniques.
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His path took a fortuitous turn when he assumed the role of an instructor at CCAA, succeeding his esteemed printmaking mentor, Joan McClure, upon her retirement in 1997. In the ensuing years, Chris's artistic endeavors flourished, encompassing graphic design, interactive multimedia, and a return to his roots in hand-printed rock art posters. Notably, he has lent his expertise to the creation of over 200 designs and prints for rock and jam bands, showcasing the enduring resonance of his passion for screen printing.
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Artist: ​Deborah Hodies

Step into the world of creativity with Deborah, an experienced art educator and visionary based in West Chester, PA! With roots tracing back to her days as a master teacher and art coordinator at a prestigious visual and performing arts magnet school in Los Angeles, Deborah brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to everything she does.
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Since making the move to West Chester in 1993, Deborah has been the driving force behind Late Bloomer Productions, her very own graphic arts and event planning business. But that's just the beginning of her story! Deborah's involvement in various civic and philanthropic endeavors has left a lasting impact on the community, with her fingerprints visible on numerous art and service projects.
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Artist: Emily Pellini
Instagram: @emleeep
Website: emilypellini.com

Emily Pellini is a Metalsmith, Enamelist, and illustrator from Kennett Square, PA. She received her BFA from Millersville University in Millersville, Pennsylvania, and her MFA in Metals from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. She is an educator of metals, enameling, and illustration at several locations throughout the east coast and virtually. Emily’s specialties lie in surface decoration in enamel, and her pieces have awarded her both numerous honors and inclusions in book publications.
Artist: EO Omwake 
Instagram: @Eoomwake1

Eo Omwake is a prolific painter with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Equivalent from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. With exhibitions spanning from 1968 to 2023, including prestigious venues like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Whitney Annual of American Art, his work has garnered recognition and is represented in collections worldwide. Omwake's contributions extend beyond his artistry; he has served as an Assistant Curator, Guest Artist in Residence, and Instructor at esteemed institutions like the University of Texas at Austin and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. Additionally, he has produced and directed over sixty art-related videos and has been published and reviewed in renowned publications such as Art in America and Artforum.
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Artist: Gary Altoona
Website: https://www.altoonianphotography.com/
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Gary Altoonian is a self-taught photographer whose passion for photography began while he was
serving in the US Navy. In 2013, he took his passion and created Altoonian Photography, a
Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business that provides a wide range of photography
services that include headshots, portraits, personal branding, event photography (corporate,
organizational, golf outings, intimate weddings, engagements, family, etc.) architectural,
Groupless Groupshots®, light painting and fine art photography.

He is known to go just about anywhere to capture a great photograph on land, in the air, on the
water and underwater. An online gallery of his extensive works can be found at
www.altoonianphotography.com.

Gary has won many awards for his fine art photography and has exhibited in numerous juried
fine art exhibitions and shows. His work has appeared on the cover of CIO magazine and the
Wall Street Journal. Altoonian Photography has been named the West Chester Best Portrait
Studio for 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Instructor: George Gehringer
Website: https://geoceramics.com/
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​After earning a BFA in ceramics from Alfred University, George became the educational director at the Hand Workshop in Richmond, VA, where he also taught ceramics. A year later, he joined Pfalzgraff Pottery as a research associate, deepening his expertise in industrial decorating techniques. He opened his first studio in central PA, producing and selling functional wares for four years. In 1984, George moved to Lansdale, PA, to work as a design manager at American Olean Tile Co., where he continued to explore ceramic tile technologies while maintaining a private studio. After 13 years of global travel and design work, he transitioned to a creative director role across various industries. In 2002, George and his partner opened METAPHOR LLC, a design consultancy in Exton, PA, and established his fourth ceramic studio, Geo Ceramics. During COVID, he focused on expanding his glaze techniques and began selling his work. In 2023, George started teaching wheel classes at Centered Clay Studio in Kennett Square, PA, while continuing to showcase and sell his ceramics locally.
Instructor: Gretchen Studlien-Webb

Gretchen Studlien-Webb is the coordinator for the dance minor program in the Department of Theatre and Dance at West Chester University. She holds an M.F.A. from Temple University and a B.F.A. from The Ohio State University's Department of Dance.  As the advisor for the University Dance Company, she has directed more than 33 full-length concerts and choreographed over 50 dances. Studlien-Webb has taught and presented work internationally at the Ladek Zdroj International Dance Festival in Poland (2008 and 2013) and Claremont Project in London, England (2014). Her scholarly research for the past fifteen years often focuses on environmental sustainability which translates into her choreographic compositions; E.A.R.T.H.  (Evolution Arises Revealing True Humanity) (2007), Shared Ignorance (2011), Re[F]use (2013), Continuous Cycle (2015), and Environmental Intervention (2016), Carnival of Ruin (2021), and re(surge) (2022). In addition, Studlien-Webb maintains an active private yoga practice. She has been presenting workshops and teaching yoga in both the corporate and private sectors for more than 20 years.
Artist: George McMonigle
Instagram: @Geomcm
Facebook: GMcMonigleSculpture
Website: georgemcmonigle.com

George McMonigle, a graduate of Temple University's Tyler School of Fine Art with a focus on Sculpture and Design from 1970 to 1974, has pursued further studies at renowned institutions including Fleisher, Philadelphia College of Art, Cornell University, and the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. From 1990 to 1998, he contributed his expertise as a board member for the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art. His artistic prowess is celebrated globally, with his works featured in numerous public and private collections worldwide. A distinguished member of the National Sculpture Society since 1989 and The Society of Animal Artists since 1980, George McMonigle continues to leave an indelible mark on the art world.
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Artist:  Jackie Kane
Website:  jackiekanefineart.com
Instagram: @Jackiekanestudio

Introducing Jackie Kane, an Artist / Photographer who specializes in realistic paintings with an emphasis on vivid colors.  Jackie’s passion for creating Art extends into her enthusiasm for seeing the progress of her students, while her teaching style is to work with each individual’s artistic goals and skills.

Formal training in Art, Design and Photography, has made specializing in Painting as well as Architectural and Fine Art images, a natural fit.  Jackie’s own artistic journey has inspired her to teach others the many tips and tricks she has learned and developed over the years.  In addition to the essential Fundamentals of Color and Oil Painting, Jackie provides a wealth of information for your painting journey in a fun and motivational way.
Jackie is a member of Oil Painters of America (OPA), National Oil & Acrylic Painters Society (NOAPS) and Delaware Valley Art League (DVAL).  She enjoys life with her blonde Labradors, Daisy Violet and Leo.
​Artist: Jill Galloway Sherman
Website: jillgallowaysherman.com
Instagram: @Jill_gallowaysherman

Over the span of two decades, Jill Galloway Sherman has immersed herself in the vibrant tapestry of Philadelphia's arts and education landscape. Her journey commenced as a print assistant at Silicon Gallery, followed by a tenure as a photo retoucher at Cbop Photo Lounge. Evolving within the realm of education, she transitioned into teaching roles at the esteemed former Art Institute of Philadelphia. Presently, she serves as an adjunct professor at both Saint Joseph’s University and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.
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Beyond academia, Jill thrives as a freelance consultant, collaborating with a diverse array of photographers. Her expertise lies in nurturing their artistic vision and refining their technical prowess, guiding them towards greater heights of creativity and mastery.
Artist: Jane Palestini
Website: ​bellafeltworks.com
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Originally from the UK, Jane moved to Philadelphia in 1975 to pursue a career in social work. There, she met her husband, and together they raised two children. After spending 15 years in Iowa, they settled in West Chester, where they've called home for the past 14 years.

During a visit to family in Australia, Jane discovered her passion for nuno-felting, a technique that combines loose wool fibers with lightweight fabrics like silk. Inspired by its versatility, she expanded her repertoire to include scarves, pictures, jewelry, and 3D objects using the wet felting method.
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Though mostly self-taught, Jane enriched her skills through workshops with renowned felters in Australia and the UK. For the past decade, she has been teaching workshops, sharing the joy of nuno-felting with others eager to explore this captivating art form.
Artist: Jill Benjamin

​Jill Benjamin, a seasoned art educator retired in June 2017, dedicated her career to teaching at AvonGrove Intermediate School in the AvonGrove School District since 1987. She holds a BS in Art Education from Mansfield University and pursued graduate studies in special education and art therapy. Recognized for her excellence, she received various awards, including the Citadel Bank’s Heart of Learning Award in 2016. Jill's commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, teaching children's art classes at the Chester County Art Association since 1984. Passionate about art, she engages in plein aire painting, printmaking, and relief carving demonstrations. Jill is an active volunteer, museum-goer, and member of various organizations, including the London Grove Friends Meeting. Personally, she resides in Unionville with her husband and three children, maintaining a rich artistic and educational lifestyle. Her philosophy emphasizes lifelong learning and fostering creativity in children through art education.
Artist: Jill Keefer
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Jill Keefer has spent her lifetime creating and supporting the arts. She started her professional career as a graphic artist and supported her children in a variety of volunteer gigs -- from an annual art gala to marching band mom to Girl Scout leader. With her kids mostly out of the house, Jill had time to focus on her own interests and get her hands dirty. Jill splits her time between hand building and throwing on the wheel and can't decide which she likes best.  
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Artist: Kaity Dempsey
Website: @Shelterart.org
​Instagram: shelterartbykaitylacy

Kaity, a renowned illustrator based in Philadelphia, is not just an educator, but a compassionate advocate for animal welfare. Alongside her vibrant artwork, she dedicates her talents to supporting animal rescue organizations through colorful paintings, aiding their fundraising efforts. Her passion extends beyond the canvas as she educates communities on humane practices. Kaity's impact is felt not only in the art world but also in the lives of countless shelter animals she has helped save.
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Artist: Laura Rivell
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​Laura Rivell boasts 25 years of expertise in "Aesthetics and the Global Floral Supply Chain." Initially trained in Interior Design and Architecture at the University of Maryland, Laura worked in commercial interior design before transitioning to set design and visual merchandising at QVC in 2000. There, she became known as "The Flower and Garden Girl," overseeing set design and purchasing for various shows. She furthered her floral expertise by obtaining a certificate in Floral Design from Longwood Gardens and working part-time as a florist. Laura then moved into floral buying roles at Genuardi's Family Markets and Ahold USA before becoming a Senior Account Executive and Product Development Coordinator at Natural Flowers. Her designs are sold in major retailers across the US. Laura is actively involved in various floral organizations and will soon begin teaching Floral Design at Longwood Gardens. She resides in West Chester, PA, with her family and two dogs.
Artist: Lily Petro
Website: waterlilypottery.com
Instagram: @Waterlilypottery

Meet Lily Petro, a talented ceramic artist calling Pennsylvania home. Graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts with a focus on Ceramics from West Chester University in 2023, Lily's journey with clay began long before her university days.

It was in high school where Lily first unearthed her passion for ceramics, captivated by the transformative process of molding clay into functional and decorative masterpieces. Now, as an instructor and studio technician at the Chester County Art Association in West Chester, PA, Lily shares her love for ceramics with eager learners, guiding them through the intricate art of clay manipulation and creation. With each piece she crafts, Lily continues to weave her unique blend of creativity and skill into the vibrant tapestry of the ceramic world.
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Artist: Maggie Creshkoff
Website: backlogpottery.com
Instagram: @Maggie_Creshkoff

Maggie Creshkoff lives on a farm in northern Maryland with far too many cats and her 110 lb Daniff named Puccin. She studied American History at Antioch College, Ceramics at the Instituto Allende in Mexico, and moved to Maryland in 1982. 

Stubbornly committed to using local clays, she is likewise dedicated to getting as many small children and adults as dirty as possible.
Artist: Mark Cole
​Website: favidubo.com/about

T. Mark Cole, a Pennsylvania-based artist renowned for his traditional landscapes, also creates under the pseudonym Favi Dubo, specializing in abstract art. With over three decades of experience as a fine arts instructor, Cole's passion for architecture led him to document historic homes on Mount Desert Island for the State of Maine. This endeavor sparked a series of curated exhibitions and lectures, along with co-authoring two books on Stone Harbor, NJ's history. Additionally, he designed and executed diorama exhibitions at the Brandywine River Museum and undertook architectural commissions.
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Embracing theatrical design as an extension of fine arts, Cole's set designs have graced productions such as The Broken Hollow Banshee and Agnes of God, garnering nominations for Best Set Design on BroadwayWorld.com. His scenic designs include acclaimed productions like Next to Normal and The Nutcracker. Cole's artistic journey began at CCAA in high school, instilling in him the belief that artists are perpetual learners, with each brushstroke or pencil stroke marking a new evolution in their work.
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Artist: Pam McKee
Website: pammckeewatercolors.com
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​Meet Pam McKee a multi -faceted artist whose passions intertwine nature and the joy of teaching. With a flair for botanical art illustration, she captivates audiences with intricately detailed renderings inspired by the natural world. Her expertise extends to eco dyed paper where she transforms ordinary material, like onion skins, flowers, leaves into stunning works of art infused with botanical inspiration. Beyond her studio practice her artistic prowess led her into teaching art on cruise ships, guiding eager learners in the exploration of their creative potential. She is also co-author illustrator of three cookbooks. Her studio is nestled within the
property of her and her husbands 1750 property, providing solace and inspiration for her work. Her portfolio includes several solo shows as well as numerous juried art shows. She teaches workshops as well as weekly classes in her studio. She has furthered her technique with two masters classes in England as well as numerous classes at Longwood and beyond.
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Artist: Rachel Heinze
Website: kennettmosaichouse.com
Instagram: @Kennett.Mosaic.House
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Rachel, a self-taught artist specializing in collages, assemblages, and mosaics, possesses a unique talent for repurposing everyday objects into captivating works of art—so it's wise to keep valuables out of her reach! The solidity, weight, sharpness, and enduring nature of mosaic materials serve as Rachel's steadfast anchor through life's various ebbs and flows.
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During the day, Rachel channels her passion for education as a dedicated high school special education teacher, providing unwavering support to her students on their educational journey. Off the clock, she calls Kennett home, where she enjoys the company of her two wonderful teenage kids, navigating the complexities of parenthood while immersing herself in her artistic pursuits.
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Artist: Sue Trembath
Website: https://suezentangle.carrd.co/
Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094558790189
Instagram: @Stampinsue

Sue T. has been immersed in art since childhood, initially studying as an art major before dedicating over forty years to nursing. Throughout her nursing career, she maintained her creative passion, utilizing art as a form of self-care.

An accomplished paper artist and educator for over two decades, Sue holds a master's in nursing education. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, she discovered solace in Zentangle, finding beauty and tranquility in its simplicity. Now a Certified Zentangle Teacher, Sue shares her love for creativity and mindfulness with others.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Sue enjoys a supportive marriage and the company of her two beloved cats, Pixie and Petey, who offer comfort as she continues to explore her artistic journey.
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Artist: Theresa O’Neill (Groff)
Website: Skinnydippinsoul.com
​Instagram: @Skinnydippinsoul.artist.page

Meet Theresa, the vibrant Chester County artist who's all about the fun and flair of alcohol ink! Her art dances between abstract, expressionist, and even whimsical styles, attracting collectors from near and far, from Chester County to the far reaches of the globe.

Theresa's not just about creating art—she's all about spreading the joy! When she's not busy painting up a storm, you'll find her teaching the magic of alcohol inks to beginners and seasoned artists alike. There's nothing quite like the thrill of seeing her students' faces light up with delight as they dive into the world of vibrant colors and spontaneous creativity!
Artist: Tom Uleau
Website: itsmrtom.com
Instagram: @Itsmr.tom
Threads: itsmr.tom
Youtube: itsMrTom
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As a student turned instructor at CCAA, I'm thrilled to be back where my artistic journey began! Picture this: high school art classes buzzing with creativity right here at the art center. Now, years later, many of my former instructors are still here, adding to the charm and nostalgia of this place.

​But wait, there's more! Since those high school days, I've embarked on a wild adventure as an illustrator and author specializing in children's literature. With watercolors as my trusty sidekick and a sprinkle of digital magic, I bring stories to life in the most colorful and captivating ways!
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Artist: Wen Xiao
Spring Classes: Intro to Chinese Calligraphy

Xiao Wen is a passionate advocate for cultural exchange and the preservation of traditional Chinese arts. With esteemed memberships in the International Chinese Arts Society of Americas and a revered position as a researcher at the Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Academy of the American World Art Institute, Xiao Wen stands as a beacon of expertise in Chinese calligraphy.

In 2024, Xiao Wen's talent was further recognized when she was chosen as a special invited calligrapher for the Disney FX production series "Shogun." Her dedication, skill, and artistry serve as an inspiration, leaving an enduring impact on the world of Chinese calligraphy and beyond.
Artist: Wendy B. Scheirer
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Wendy B. Scheirer is a watercolorist whose paintings exhibit a love of color, drawing, and the fluid quality of the medium. With a BFA from Arcadia University Wendy currently enjoys teaching students of all levels in classes at Chester County Art Association and Wayne Art Center. She has also taught at West Chester University, Immaculata University and several other local art centers.

An award-winning fine artist, Wendy has achieved signature status in the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society, the Philadelphia Water Color Society, and the Baltimore Watercolor Society. She has also been employed as a graphic artist for the Chester County Library, and an art planner and director at American Greetings. She is featured in Speaking for Themselves: The Artists of Southeastern Pennsylvania, by Daphne Landis, and The Four Seasons of Chester County, The Artistsby Red Hamer.
Prospective Teachers & Artist-Instructors

​CCAA is always looking for experienced instructors! Please submit a cover letter describing your interests with your resume to [email protected].
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Current clearances are required for all of our teachers as well as all volunteers who work with children. Additionally, a signed annual contract and completed W9 form are required of all independent contractors.