ARTISTIC SOULS @ A&S
MANDA MACKINTOSH
A&S Studio Owner/Director, Artist & Instructor
Manda always says, "I have the best job!" And she truly means it! She has loved making art ever since she can remember.
Her passion for the arts was initially sparked by her Mom and was nurtured by many teachers, professors & artists throughout her life who continued to inspire her. That same passion is now driving her determination to inspire and bring the joy of art & the benefits of creating to others.
Manda has been professionally teaching art to all ages for over 20 years. First, in Frederick County Public Schools as an Art Teacher, and for the last 14 years in her own studio. She also enjoys taking art lessons on the road to other's classrooms & groups to share the benefits and wonders of creativity and art-making.
The only thing Manda loves more than creating & teaching art is her family. She is a mother of three beautiful sweet little stinkers, Cortland, Annabelle & Naomi, and the wife of a wonderfully supportive husband, Drew.
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COURTNEY PRAHL
Artist, Workshop Director & Instructor
Courtney is a mixed media collage artist living in Urbana with her husband Nick. She stays busy keeping up with her two busy college boys Harrison & Reese.
She has taught art in a private studio and at FCC for over 10 years. She is a “Working “ artist represented by Wild Apple Graphics for print and product licensing. Courtney still is shocked when she sees her art on a product out in the world. She loves creating and teaching the process of art. She is a true believer in the mantra “Yes, you can!! Just try!!“
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Courtney is traditionally trained in the 3D arts and finds that mixed media really speaks to her. She loves using vintage papers and nontraditional/ repurposed art materials. Courtney explains, "There is no better inspiration than watching my students find new
ways to create".
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MORGAN MCGRADY
Artist & Art Instructor
Once an A&S artist & volunteer as a middle schooler, Morgan is excited to be part of Art & Soul now as an instructor. She enjoys combining her passions of education & art and hopes every artist feels welcomed when they walk into the studio. She encourages each artist to create artwork that is different because we are all different and unique!
Morgan has an undergraduate degree in Special Education and is working towards a Master's degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, and traveling.
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LISA VANHORN
Artist & Art Instructor
Lisa has always had a passion for helping and serving others in the community. She works as a graphic design consultant and has taught all types of fine art and digital art to students in Frederick County Public Schools, Montgomery County Public Schools, and even college design courses! She enjoys being creative with students, having fun with her classes, and watching their imaginations and independence flourish!
Lisa and her family live in Urbana. They love being part of all this community has to offer–the sports, outdoor activities, and volunteer opportunities. Of course, they also enjoy field trips to nearby museums and being creative together at home!
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KRISSY BENSON
Artist & Art Instructor
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Mrs. Krissy is truly a blessing at Art & Soul. When Manda's second child came along, so did Krissy. She helped out with classes while Manda was on maternity leave, and thankfully.... she never left!
Krissy's amazingly warm personality makes everyone feel comfortable in her presence. Her love for the arts and her passion for teaching is unmeasurable. Krissy has now taken over the role as the Home School Art Instructor and Pre K Art Explorer Instructor.
When she is not making art in the studio, you can bet she is at home making it with her two beautiful and equally talented girls, Sarah (11) & Gabby (6). I'm also sure her husband, Patrick, gets in on the art making too! They are one artistic family!!