About the Academy

LRA Academy was not originally part of the plan. My plan was to simply paint anatomy art all day, every day.

You see, I had created Lyon Road Art in 2015, after medical illustration school, as the online storefront for my anatomically-inspired fine art paintings. And it was a success! After eight years, I had sold over 50,000 prints and originals around the world. When I moved to Waunakee in 2021, I knew it was finally time to rent a small studio for myself and my employees. 

The lovely little Main Street shop I found was ideal. It had a cute store space in the front and, bonus, an extra room in the back. On a bit of a whim, I decided it would be fun to use the space to teach a few classes. It would allow me to get involved in the community a bit and connect with like-minded creative peeps.

So I’m leaning in with LRA Academy. With a larger studio, new teachers, and more opportunities, I’m hoping to expand the positive effects of art. I want to provide a happy, lively and inspirational environment for fellow artists to expand their skill sets and grow in their creative journey. And I will be right by your side!

While it may not have been in my original plan, it’s the unexpected paths, paths that lead to LRA Academy, for instance, that make life worth living.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I can’t wait to see you in class!

I was blown away. 


I was blown away by how much I loved teaching art. I loved connecting with the kids, watching them grow in their artistic journey; I loved connecting with adults as I watched them bask in the heady rush of finding a new creative hobby. I loved the thrill of a successful class, one where the majority of students felt clear obvious pride in their final piece (and bonus if they despaired of ever feeling pride at some point earlier in that same class!)

I was also blown away by the response I received from students and the community. The residents in Waunakee and Madison were more than willing to take a chance on a new teacher. They showed up, and kept showing up, with such curious and enthusiastic attitudes that inspired me to my very core. I was also taken aback by the consistent commentary on the positive mental health effect these classes were having on them.