Teaching adults and children locally for over twelve years, Elie is the Owner and Master Artist at Studio Elie in Cornelius. His studio has been recognized and voted on as "Best Of Lesson.com" in the Lake Norman Area.
Elie Bou Zeidan renders striking naturalistic paintings, capturing simple moments and sensual revelations in every stroke. A classical painter throughout, his works ignite the deepest visceral longing for aesthetic release. He meditates on the human lust for beauty in pictures which capture the light and effortlessness of allure and attraction. As Kahlil Gibran astutely observed, "Art arises when the secret vision of the artist and the manifestation of nature agree to find new shapes." Indeed Bou Zeidan uses deft technical facility to conjure the textures and luminance of naturalistic subjects in each of his varied works. The classicism of his works suggests a strong influence from classical French art, as his meticulous renderings reveal a "unique ability to blend European style with the ambiance of the Orient." Working in alternatively lively and muted color palettes, Bou Zeidan vacillates mediums from oil on linen canvas, to oil on wood, to pastels or even Chinese ink. In his paintings he confirms the timeless aphorism, "art completes what nature cannot bring to a finish. “A master of still-lives, landscapes, and nudes, Bou Zeidan descends from Ablah, Lebanon, where he began painting at a very early age. After he fled Lebanon to escape the turmoil of civil war, he moved to France, and currently lives In The USA Cornelius North Carolina. His work is widely collected in Europe and the United States.
With the full education and endorsement of Bob Ross, Inc.® Chrissy is certified to teach Bob Ross' Joy Of Painting® Landscape Classes as a Certified Ross Instructor (CRI®). Teaching Bob Ross Workshops locally in NC and in Florida. Following in Bob's philosophy of making art accessible to all, Chrissy presents her workshops in an upbeat, friendly and inclusive atmosphere where even the most novice artist is welcome. "Sharing the love of painting may truly be the JOY of Painting®"
A passionate and dedicated teaching artist, Chrissy is committed to nurturing students' creativity and individuality in their art. Believing every artist/student has a unique artistic viewpoint, voice and journey. "My role is to help students discover and develop it through hands on and collaborative learning."
With over 15 years of teaching experience, both adults and children, Chrissy leads group and private parties at Studio Elie.
With more than ten years practical experience in both commissioned and group-lead animal portraiture teaching, Kortney brings her love of pets and passion for painting to her classes earning her the distinction of being one of the most sought-after Pet Portrait Artists in our area.
With extensive experience leading students in both acrylic and oil mediums, she can diversify to meet the varying needs of student's knowledge base. Whether the very beginner or a seasoned artist adding pet portraiture to the repertoire, Kortney leads with expertise, patience and encouraging confidence.
Kortney is also well-known as a fun, knowledgeable and engaging sip & paint/private party artist adaptable to all age and experience levels. She is a valued member of Studio Elie's Artistic staff.
Shayna is a friendly, quirky artist whose #1 goal is for people to have FUN with art! From paint-pouring to Picasso portraiture and “Sip and Paint” instruction, she puts the FUN in "FUN ART!"
As a former Kindergarten teacher, one of the core values she taught her students was that we are ALL artists! When we create something with the intent of expressing an idea, emotion, or message, it’s considered ART. EVERYONE has the ability to create art!
Shayna helps people of ALL ages discover and unleash their “inner artists,” through compassion, encouragement, and by making it FUN! Her bubbly, upbeat personality puts people at ease and helps them build their confidence as artists.
In her spare time, Shayna hosts exciting & interactive Music Bingo/Trivia games all over Charlotte & LKN. Her alter ego is “DJ ShayNanigans!” Follow her on FB/IG: @djshaynanigans
Shayna also has a little vintage shop at Sleepy Poet Antique Mall, where she sells vintage clothing, vinyl records, games, home décor, & more. Shayna sells some of her artwork there, too! Follow her on FB/IG: @shaynanigans_vintage