Alex

My driving force in life is art, in all its forms and I wear many hats as an artist. I am a painter, a photographer, certified art therapist, and most recently a soap maker! I live and breathe art. I've been a workshop style- teacher for over 14 years, and I love sharing my knowledge with others. I have been working at Painting With a Twist for over 7 years and absolutely love what I do! In my spare time I like to bake, hang out with my boyfriend and our dogs, go rocking climbing and watch movies. I can't wait to see you in one of my classes!

Artist Website

Andrea

Andrea is the owner of the Urbandale studio. Most of Andrea's professional career has involved editing for various magazines and marketing agencies ... and she dabbled in painting instruction as a fun side gig. Now she's happily replaced her red pen with a paintbrush, and leads the Painting with a Twist charge in the Des Moines Metro. She has degrees in journalism and art, and has traveled extensively to immerse herself in the art and cultures of many destinations. Her goals include providing central Iowa with the best painting experience in town and learning how to not get so much paint in her hair. Andrea lives in Des Moines with her giant dog, Zeus.

Anne

Hi, my name is Anne. Ever since I was little, I was always creating something: painting, drawing, or writing a story. These days, I enjoy creating landscapes and plants. I love teaching art to others because I get to experience how others view art and see their imaginations come alive. Meeting people is on the parts I find the most at Painting with a Twist. When I'm not working, you can find me taking pictures with my camera or painting at my desk.

Autumn

Hi! I’m Autumn, and art has always been a huge part of my life. I started painting when I was a kid and never put down the brush. I have a degree in Theatre, Dance, and Performance studies — specifically prop-making and scenic painting. So when I’m not painting here, I’m building sets and pieces for local theatres. I am a very hands-on person, and I love to mix media and try new things. Creativity and artistic liberties are always welcome when you’re with me! When I’m not painting, I’m obsessing over Disney, Star Wars, or Marvel so if you ever want to nerd out, I’m your girl!

Carisa

Hi, I'm Carisa! Art has always been a part of my life. My passion is inspiring and encouraging others to be creative, so I am excited to do that at Painting with a Twist! I grew up in Swea City, Iowa, and graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Art Education. I was a middle school art teacher for 24 years. I love to paint with watercolor and acrylics, and enjoy creating illustrations. When I'm not teaching, I love to go on long walks while listening to podcasts, reading, and watching Star Wars and Marvel movies. I also enjoy spending time with my husband, two sons, and cat named Sheldon Cooper.

Justine

Hi, my name is Justine! My life has been full of the arts. From musicals, choir, band, jazz band and now we’re taking on painting! I’m a self-taught painter who really has fallen in love with creating. I graduated from UNI with a communications degree, and here we are teaching people how to paint and have fun. In my free time I love to play with makeup! Halloween is my favorite time of the year, because we all can play and be creative! I also am a psychic who loves to spend my time reading tarot and reiki healing!

Taylor

I turn to art to balance out my very left-brain job as an accountant. I’m especially drawn to dreamlike concepts and art depicting the pieces of life I find most beautiful. Some of my biggest sources of inspiration include artists like Monet, Rodin, and other French impressionists, although I’d describe my own personal style as “early American suburban housewife.” After living on three continents and moonlighting as an opera singer, bartender, aerial performer, and ice sculptor, I’ve found my favorite passion is my latest one: raising my newborn son with my husband and our handsome Aussie in Urbandale, Iowa. I look forward to helping you channel your own personal experiences to create art you can truly be proud of!

Zet

Hi, Zet here! I’m a local artist and illustrator here in Iowa. I’ve worked on projects both big and small, from illustrations and paintings to installations and murals. I love being able to tell and share little stories through my work. What I enjoy most about teaching art to others is the conversation that happens and just having the opportunity to show someone that they are capable of making something beautiful! When I am not painting or doodling, you can either catch me making music or playing with my two crazy pups. Last note: pigeons are my favorite!