Instructional Staff
Sascha Newell, Instructor
"Ms. Sascha" is an Artist, Founder and Executive Director of Fine Art Starts. She has a BFA in Visual Art and a Master's Degree in Teaching. She has taught fine art to children and adults since 1997, and was one of three nominees for the 2021 Art Educator of the Year Award for the state of Oregon. Sascha teaches Art full time at Jesuit High School, directs Fine Art Starts, and is adjunct Faculty for George Fox University in the area of Art Pedagogy (teaching teachers how to teach Visual Art). She has a blended family of five children and loves making art in nature. |
Nina Manning, Instructor
"Ms. Nina" grew up spending hours in the Fine Art Starts studio, attending years of art classes, has several years of assisting and teaching for Fine Art Starts at various schools, and is a Bachelor's candidate in her third year of college. She is studying animation and game design at Pacific Northwest College of Art. They enjoy making art and spending time with their two cats, Inky and Penny and their crested gecko named Barnaby. |
Adam Strickler, Instructor
"Mr. Adam" is a husband and a father to 3 boys, one of which is a student at MITCH. He is an Artist who specializes in traditional media such as ink, paint and clay sculpture. He has 5 years of volunteer art instruction with elementary school-aged kids and is looking forward to a rewarding experience teaching with Fine Art Starts! |
Zaza Jeffers, Instructor
Alexandra ("Ms. Zaza" ) Jeffers received her graphic design degree from PCC in 2013. She worked as a painting instructor at a studio in Tigard teaching both children and adult classes. She has studied many art mediums, including drawing, painting, and calligraphy. She is now a new mom to a little one year old boy.
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Tera Virgin, Instructor
“Ms. Tera” is a freelance artist and Pokemon enthusiast. Tera received her Bachelors in Fine Arts, majoring in Animation in 2021. For the past 2 years, they have taught at Club-K Afterschool Zone throughout the Beaverton and Tigard-Tualatin area. Outside of work, Tera independently curates digital illustrations and animations for various clients and peers.
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Studio Assistants
Sofia Lilah, Studio Classroom Assistant
Sofia Lilah is a Jesuit High School Senior and Art student, president of social justice union, and youth board member for Rose Haven. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, running, and spending time with her family, especially her siblings and dog, Yoshi. Sofia Lilah has been volunteering with Fine Arts Starts since January, 2023, is on summer Art Camp staff and loves listening to all the creative ideas the kids have. |
Vicenzo, Studio Classroom Assistant
InclusionEvery child’s life and diverse experiences are respected. Our goal is to ensure that students are truly seen, valued and feel a sense of belonging and safety during times of creation and sharing.
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Engaging InstructionWe place the best-matched instructor with the course being offered. Our instructors are valued for their artistry, experience and time.
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CommunityStudents feel a sense of community during camp times, art shows and the support they receive from peers and leaders.
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