Bryan has been working as a mural painter and owner of Artifice, Inc., a full-service decorative arts company based in Arlington, Virginia, since 1987. While working as a decorative artisan, Bryan has focused much of his work on mural painting. His vibrant creations adorn the exterior walls of many buildings across Northern Virginia and the Washington, DC, area. His work is celebrated for its bold colors, attention to intricate details, and architectural perspective, which grace public spaces, businesses, and private residences alike. Bryan studied painting at Carnegie-Mellon University and received an MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1981. He has continued to hone his craft, working in a wide variety of mediums on many different substrates, from small trompe-l’oeil canvases to large buildings. He has been a mural instructor for the Smithsonian Resident Associate Program.

Lenehan Studios’ owner, Deanne Lenehan, specializes in unique and innovative painted solutions for interiors. She loves collaborating with interior designers and clients alike to create unique and beautiful spaces that will be enjoyed for years. Lenehan Studios is based in Baltimore, MD, and has served clients across the U.S. Dee loves to travel wherever the project may take her. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Art Education at Towson University and has had the fortune of studying nationally as well as in Italy and France under the tutelage of the industry’s top artisans. Her work has been seen in over a dozen designer showhouses, and she is the first decorative artist to take a course on decorative painting accredited by the Interior Design Continuing Education Council. She is the president of the local chapter of the International Decorative Artisans League, founder of the Ellicott City Arts Coalition, and an Industry Partner of the American Society of Interior Designers. Lenehan Studios has earned several accolades, including heading a team of 30 artists to work on an episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” was voted “Baltimore’s Best” Decorative Artist by Baltimore Magazine, and has had her work published regionally, including Baltimore Magazine, Howard Magazine, and Home and Design. Lenehan was honored to work with the Baltimore Ravens Foundation to create a series of murals for an elementary school media center renovation. Her fine art has been selected to be exhibited in several juried shows in the region as well as New York City. Most recently Lenehan worked on the 2023 Southern Living Idea House in Nashville, Tennessee.

Eugenia Almeida's art studio, A New Hue, is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee. She specializes in plaster art, faux finishes, concrete carving, original stencils, and much more. Eugenia has taken classes all over the world to bring new techniques to her clients and the artists who make up her crew. Every project draws from the years of experience and plethora of techniques mastered by Eugenia.

Lori Wilson is the owner of Wilson Decorative Solutions she assists the professional decorative painting community with color and paint technical assistance, technique development, teaches and works as a painting crew member around the US and abroad. After completing a BA in both Studio Art and History of Art from Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY, living and studying in Europe for over two years, and earning an MA in History of Art from the Victoria University of Manchester, Manchester, England, she completed 21 years of service for the leading manufacturer of acrylic paint for artists, Golden Artist Colors, Inc. At Golden, she developed new products, provided technical support, developed painting techniques, and conducted workshops for professional artists, decorative painters, and beginners in both painting categories. Additionally, she was introduced to and continues to participate in the Color Marketing Group international conference http://www.colormarketing.org. At Golden, she developed annual trend/color/design programs, presented the lecture “Modern Materials and Tradition: Decorative Painting in the 21st Century” at the 2008 International Architectural Paint Research Conference held at Columbia University, NYC, and is a current participant of the International Salon, a peer-reviewed group of international decorative painters holding annual global conferences. As a fine artist, she’s instructed at the university level: Acrylic Painting, two-dimensional Design and Color Theory. Lori is a painter and sculptor utilizing acrylic, glass, and plastics. Lori was born and continues to live in Upstate New York working, creating, exhibiting and traveling around the world.

Regina Garay, founder of Right Brain Loves Left, is an engaging public speaker and workshop trainer. She specializes in empowering small businesses with effective time and marketing management strategies, enhancing their digital presence. Regina also leads the GoalMinds Mastermind group, aiding entrepreneurs in achieving their goals. With a rich background in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, she has led successful marketing campaigns across various platforms. Additionally, Regina volunteers as a Marketing Mentor for the SCORE program, leveraging her diverse experience to provide a comprehensive approach to brand impact maximization.

Tobey R. Sanders has more than 20 years’ experience in Decorative Arts, and is widely recognized for her faux finish techniques and stunning line of contemporary art. In 2007, Tobey launched FauxDecor Design Studio – a creative Interior Design/Decorative Arts studio based in Atlanta, GA that specializes in creating Unique Design Solutions (UDS) and custom designer wall techniques for residential & commercial spaces. Tobey specializes in Plasters, such as Glassello, Lusterstone and Marmorino. She’s widely known for her popular GlamRock Mica Finishes and Diamond Glass technique. In 2015 Tobey created “Faux With The Pro”, a series of hands-on decorative painting workshops which empowers men and women with the knowledge and skill set to open their own decorative painting companies. Her experiential learning lab was created for the purpose of adding another dimension to this nontraditional career path. This hands-on training center was designed to empower individuals to pursue a career in Faux Finishing and the Arts, eliminating fears of the difficulty to develop the skills and the notion that it isn’t a family-sustaining career. Building on this premise; in 2019 she launched her online Business Training for Decorative Painters called “TheFauxPro Studio. The online Decorative Painting training was created to reach a wider audience providing a more cost-effective way for individuals to learn a new skill set in a short amount of time. Tobey has inspired so many individuals with the passion for art and design, to follow their dreams and make their passion a paycheck. Since conception, her client list has included design firms and developers in Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York and Washington, DC, as well as celebrities, entertainers, and athletes across the nation. She has also been featured on HGTV’s Smart Home, Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta and Vh1’s K Michelle’s: My Life. Her faux finished rooms have been showcased in numerous publications such as, Black Enterprise, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Washington Spaces Magazine, Season Magazine, and Living Spaces Magazine. Tobey strives to give each client a truly unique finish that matches their vision. She believes in maintaining the highest levels of commitment and quality of work for each client. Whatever your faux finishing needs may be, you’ll always experience faux finishing at its best with FauxDécor.

Blessed to be located in a busy market, Houston, Texas, has treated Cindy well as she has opened her new digs, CRH Studios LLC. The diversity of the client base and the creative nature of local designers have allowed this artisan to stretch her abilities. As she gradually steps off the scaffolding from 26 years of decorative painting, her skills have been used to create commissioned artworks for Interior Designers and clients across the country. Since Glassell School of Art was at her beginnings, Cindy has come full circle on her artistic journey. She has learned from Master artisans and artists all over the world to round out her professional offerings on walls, canvas & panels, and now it’s time to share her own techniques with you!

Dora Kearney is a self-taught fine artist, decorative painter, and teacher. As a fine artist, Dora has built upon her natural talents by taking courses at San Antonio Museum of Art, Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, Fount Atelier School of Fine Art and several other courses and classes. She incorporates all her skills and techniques on everything from walls to furniture including murals and art on canvas. You can see her work intermittently displayed at the local City Hall and several model homes in the Kansas City Area. Dora has taught classes on doodle zen art, faux finishes, drawing, watercolor, furniture refinishing and decorative finishes. She has an eye for color and works to stay on top of trends. Her creativity and skill combine nicely to make the best outcome in any space or any surface. Dora is an avid supporter of the arts and is a member of International Decorative Artisan League (IDAL), Metro Artisans Guild of St. Louis (MAG), Blue Springs Arts League and the Opera Omaha Guild.

Based in Los Angeles, California, the art studio of Evan LeGrande Wilson has been providing high-quality art, art restoration, and site-specific decorative painting for more than 30 years. Evan’s work can be seen up and down the California coast, as well as overseas, in areas such as Tokyo, Cairo, Chile, and the Netherlands. Notable commissions include artwork for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, Barry Bonds, Brandy, Roy Disney Jr., John Fogerty, Mac Davis, Cleo Wade, and institutions such as NASA, Forest Lawn, the Doheny Mansion, Los Angeles County Libraries, and several historic hotels, theaters, City Halls and churches. An alum of UCLA, Evan sought additional art training at Otis College of Art and Design and private art training at various locations in Europe. Under Evan’s direction, LeGrande Studios, Inc. has produced a body of work that has earned recognition in Architectural Digest, the Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Daily News, Pasadena Star-News, The Glendale News-press, Valley Magazine, Veranda Magazine, and various other publications. Evan enjoys interacting with other artists and does collaborative projects when the occasion permits. He teaches classes intermittently in his studio and has been a guest instructor in other studios and schools nationwide. Evan has produced important and award-winning work. His paintings have won several recent awards locally, including First Place at the Pasadena ArtWalk and Several “Best of Show” awards in local group shows. Evan’s solo exhibition of “Lyrical Portraits” at the Pico Rivera Center for the Arts set a new record for attendance at an opening reception at that venue. Finally, when he isn’t spending time with his family or creating Bonzai (a new passion), Evan donates time to local community organizations and occasionally opens his studio to youth groups in hopes of encouraging and guiding the next generation of young artists. For more information, see his social media content on Facebook or Instagram, or visit his newly re-structured website legrandestudiosinc.net

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Romabio has been on a mission to change the way the world makes paint. From the beauty of Classico Limewash to the durability and performance of our Masonry Paints, to authentic Italian Plasters, Romabio designs elegantly luminous products with beauty like no other, all while educating consumers on the benefits of choosing the correct product for the surface. Our name, Romabio, is pronounced in two parts: Roma for Roma, Italy, and Bio for biological or organic and natural. Romabio products are crafted and designed in Italy inspired by ancient traditions but formulated for everyday use. Romabio cares about creating safe, durable, high-quality products, and we consciously consider the impact of all components of what we create, distribute, and dispose. Our philosophy is to offer the highest quality products that will benefit people and the planet, and we aspire to treat our customers and our employees with the utmost respect.

Robin Belisle is a self taught artist who began her decorative painting career in 1998 after an extraordinary encounter with a faux finishing class. From there, she made a pointed decision to become the best decorative painter she could be and searched out award winning designers and builders to work with. She has traveled to Italy, Paris, many times to Morocco and all over the world leaving her mark on homes and hotels in need of artistic interpretation. This in turn has helped her hone her craft and create many signature finishes based on her travels. Shehe has been featured in magazine articles, trade shows and the local news as trends to watch. She began teaching in her own studio and then taught many classes across the US. She joined the Board of Directors for the International Decorative Artisans league (IDAL) as education chair. As that chapter drew to a close, she knew she would eventually be teaching more. She has since joined other instructors on THE PAINT HIVE teaching online decorative painting classes.

I have been a Graphic Artist/Art Director for 40 years, the last 23 as owner of the Design/Marketing Firm Fat Dog Creative. I have always been creative, but for most of my life, I have found myself being creative for others. In graphic design/marketing, rules must be followed, and they are very structured. I needed to break away from that structure and find my artistic voice. So, five years ago, I decided it was time to be creative for myself. I had always wanted to learn how to watercolor, so every night, I painted and experimented with what the paints could do and what I could do to make them my own. Along the way, I added resin to the mix, then alcohol inks. I love each of these mediums because they allow me to let go and just be in the moment. Because of their fluid nature, you never truly know what the outcome will be. After about a year of painting and experimenting, I felt I had found my voice, and it was time to see if anyone else felt the same. So I applied to sell my artwork at the Festival of the Little Hills in 2019. The reception at this Festival was incredible, I sold every painting I had done that year. From that one show, I was asked to be a featured artist at the St. Peters Cultural Arts Center and the Hannibal Cultural Arts Center. Since then, I have been featured three times at St. Peters Cultural Arts Center and told that no other featured artist has ever sold so many pieces of work. At the Hannibal Cultural Arts Center, every piece in the show sold. I continue to sell yearly at Festival of the Little Hills and have started showing at Juried Art Festivals in Missouri and Iowa, hoping to add more shows in the future. I have been asked if I teach at every show I have attended; this is something I have always wanted to do, but time has not allowed. I am honored to teach at IDAL, and I know that my experience as a business owner and Art Director and my passion for creating with these mediums will allow me to be a good teacher.

For over 24 years, I've been fortunate enough to explore the art of decorative finishes, with a particular fondness for plaster bas-relief. Over time, I've developed a method that combines hand-sculpted backgrounds with pre-designed elements, aiming to save you time while fostering a unique artistic style. While I hold certifications like Certified Master Stencilist (CMS) and have dabbled in Trompe L'oeil, Pompeian, and Parisian Fresco, my true joy comes from sharing my experiences with fellow artisans. Since 2010, I've had the privilege of teaching at the International Decorative Artisans League, and I'm forever grateful for the wonderful feedback from my students. I strive to create a welcoming and informative learning environment, prioritizing clear instruction and plenty of hands-on practice. You'll be diving into creation from the very beginning! The most fulfilling moments come from witnessing students transform newfound skills into their own personal artistic triumphs. It's truly inspiring to see their enthusiasm grow alongside their creative confidence. While I've been fortunate enough to have my work featured in printed magazines and win a few art competitions here and there, I believe the most valuable recognition comes from the impact on my students. Join me at the International Artisans League convention! Together, let's explore the potential of plaster bas-relief and create a beautiful Modern Rose Panel that will spark your creativity and equip you to offer unique and impressive pieces to your clients.

Lisa Schefsky, the Sales and Marketing Director at Crescent Bronze, an APN Specialty Brands company, is known for her forward-thinking approach and significant achievements in the paint and coatings industry. With expertise in the metallic effect and flooring sector, Lisa has overseen design projects and product installations at renowned sites like The White House, Goddard Space Flight Center, Armani, and Disney. She earned her Master of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and currently holds the position of board president at the Wisconsin Paint and Coatings Association.

Michelle Bergman is a decorative painter, artist and teacher. She’s been a lifetime lover of all things creative. When asked how she got started in the arts, the answer includes a story of encouragement from her dad, a career in graphic design then a refocus to a hands-on career in the arts that better worked with her family’s schedule. Nearly 25 years into it, she’s painted everything from walls to cabinets and furniture to murals and art on canvas and glass. Behind the scenes, Michelle devotes a substantial amount of time to developing new finishes and studying with accomplished artisans from all over the country to keep up with the latest trends, expanding her practice of creativity, and feeding her creative soul. Her passion to help others find ways to express their creativity is a huge focus in 2023.

Ron Francis is a self-taught decorative artist specializing in applying mineral plasters and owns the Ron Francis LLC brand in Tampa, Florida. Born in Philadelphia in 1966, Ron's life revolved around art from a very early age. As a young adult, he took private classes in fine arts. Later, he studied commercial art at AIPH in Philadelphia, where he lived and worked in Europe for almost a decade. He first learned of decorative plaster in Europe. In the late 1990s, he brought his life’s lessons and business to Florida. His work can be found throughout the United States and Europe in residential estates and large commercial projects for universities, luxury hotels, restaurants, and airports. He believes Venetian plaster chose him. Through his Instagram following and referral-based clientele, he has honed his craft and gained respect amongst his global peers. His techniques continue to be “listening to the material,” as he puts it, combined with traditional materials and methods. With over 20 years of intrinsic relationship with Venetian plaster, he continues to grow and develop new, innovative techniques applied in traditional and contemporary atmospheres with the Ron Francis style. He has stayed loyal to his private-labeled plasters' method and symbiotic relationship. It is the first time he will teach his methods, which have proven to be among the best handwork methods for this material worldwide.