Reno's local Talent
The Crafted Palette is only as artsy as our artists! We are so proud of the local people we bring in to teach our clasess. Each are so unique and have their own style to their craft. Here you can learn a bit more about the artists and their backround. We wish to create a culture and hub for local artists to show case their talent.
Karen Hayes
As an art instructor, I love to encourage students to step out and TRY.
Art is therapy. The learner has to be vulnerable and open to possibilities that lay within.
I see creativity as a spiritual experience. My training in theology (a seminary graduate) helped me to love and see the beauty in everyone, and the work of the hands as a blessing waiting to blossom. My favorite subjects are trompe l’oeil (optical illusion), seascapes, and animals. I also like to combine food and art (my kitchen is also an art studio!) and sometimes get lost in that “zone” – where I’m enjoying the process and time flies. If you’ve ever wanted to paint, but don’t know how to go about getting started, let Crafted Palette be your “kitchen with a studio” where you can nurture skills in a delicious environment. But, most of all, come enjoy yourself and have some fun!
David Hayes
I got my positive attitude from my parents, who said I could do ANYTHING.” David studied theater and arts in college and instructs/coaches locally at Take2 Performer’s studio. His acting skills were put to use in his one-man show, where James Sullivan of the San Francisco Chronicle noted: “Like his idol, Hayes ‘did it all’ in his 90-minute tribute.” He currently teaches drama and produces performances with the students at a local high school.
Mina Stranger
Mina is a multidisciplinary artists hailing from Yosemite and draws most of their inspiration from the natural world, myth and history. They studied botany at San Juaquin and entered the art scene through fantastical botanical studies in 2009. They’ve been an award winning creator in the paint and sip industry for 5 years and joined the Crafted Palette crew in 2019 as a watercolor and acrylic instructor.
Mina has a passion for creating art accessibility through fantastic Reno-based programs such as Sierra Arts, The Generator and The Potentialist and has created multiple murals for The City of Reno and the private sector. Her favorite subjects are fantastical landscapes and human forms.