Our instructors are practicing artists and passionate educators who bring creativity, encouragement, and expertise to ever class. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist, you're sure to be inspired by the talent and care they bring to the studio.
Meet Our Instructors
Dennis Baker
Dennis Baker is an experienced educator, photographer, and presenter. Dennis developed his effective communication and inter-personal skills during his 35-year career as a public-school teacher and administrator. Upon retirement, he transitioned into work as a free-lance photographer—photographing weddings and people. Dennis currently teaches photography classes and travels extensively. His teaching goals are to: (1) explain seemingly complex concepts in a way that everyone can understand, (2) keep all students actively involved in the learning process, and (3) have fun. Dennis is President of the West Shore Photography Club. He lives in Mechanicsburg, PA with his wife, Joyce.
Instructor at The Art Center Since 2014
Website: www.dennisbakerphoto.com.
Facebook: Dennis Baker
Michelle Babitts
Artist Bio
Yachiyo Beck
Her passion for art has been an enduring force in her life. She attempts to create an atmosphere that offers the viewer a temporary diversion from life's adversities. Her sources of inspiration include personal experiences, nature, and her own artistic imagination. A distinct Asian influence is present in many of her paintings. She has worked in a variety of media. Her current focus is on painting with watercolors, oil and graphite. Her desire for a creative outlet has influenced many of her life decisions. Originally from Japan, she achieved a position as general manager of an international modeling agency. After 16 years in the fashion industry, she retired and moved to the United States where she began her career as a professional artist. Signature Member of: National Watercolor Society, Pennsylvania Watercolor Society, SGG Medal Award, and Baltimore Watercolor Society.
Instructor at The Art Center Since 2015
Website: www.YachiyoFineArt.com
Jodi Boyer
Artist Bio
Kurt Brantner
Artist Bio
Lori Cropper
Lori Cropper graduated from Kutztown University of PA with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design. She has taught many drawing classes over the years as well as private drawing lessons. Her specialty is drawing people and animals in colored pencils, but she also loves doing stippling.
Instructor at The Art Center Since 2015
Cait Deane
Artist Bio
Kim Gleed
Artist Bio
Mark Golomb
Artist Bio
Cindi Hardwicke
Artist Bio
Ralph Hocker
Artist Bio
Cate Kidwell
Artist Bio
Chris (Lela) King
Artist Bio
Nina Mantione
Artist Bio
June Minaya
Artist Bio
Donna Mitchell
Artist Bio
Michael Peluso
Artist Bio
Dan Petruzzi
I’ve been practicing painting, drawing, photography, collage, assemblage, and image making exploration for as long as I can remember. Starting in 1984, I had the honor to serve as stay-at-home parent for 13 years, raising three children and working to develop as an artist, while my spouse finished on her doctorate and began her research career.
Instructor at The Art Center Since 2025
Website: danielpetruzzi.wixsites.com/danielpetruzzi
Instagram: @petruzzi.daniel
Justin Pettingell
Artist Bio
Doris Risser
Artist Bio
Julie Riker
Artist Bio
Hannah Smolensky
I'm Hannah, the artist behind Owlfeathers Watercolor, which I founded in 2014 while a junior in highschool. Although my career began as a middle school history teacher and archivist, I now use my love for teaching in a new way as a full-time artist and watercolor instructor! I am known for my whimsical animal artwork, and love of all things colorful and fun! My favorite workshop to teach is my "Paint Your Home" watercolor workshop!
Instructor at The Art Center Since 2024
Instagram: @owl.feathers
Facebook: Owlfeathers Watercolor
Website: www.owlfeatherswatercolor.com
Maureen Young
I’m Maureen Young and I have been teaching at the Art Center for over 10 years. I studied Horticulture and art at the Pennsylvania State University. I specialize in still lifes on canvas using oil paints. Currently I am teaching a Dried Flower and Speciality canvas workshop.
In my spare time I enjoy gardening, reading and hiking.
Instructor at The Art Center Since 2014
