Kelly Hughes graduated with a degree in Fine Arts and Sciences from the state of New York. She has completed coursework in fine arts, biology and elementary education and has accumulated twelve years of practical teaching experience in the visual arts. Kelly has worked as a nanny, assisted in public and private schools, and has worked with over 460 students in the past twelve years. Ms. Hughes has taught art elective classes for St. Paul Lutheran School, organized and instructed the “Art Workshop for Kids” and “Adventures in Art” classes, and has taught six classes for the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri’s yearly summer arts program. In 2003, upon moving to the family’s present address, Kelly eased into the role of entrepreneur. She began managing her home business Open Window Studio for the developing artists of the community, where she currently teaches summer workshops and offers private lessons for students pre-school to adult. Kelly has led various workshops in pastel, acrylic painting, fashion design and watercolor for Southeast Missouri State University, through River Campus Crisp Museum, Continuing Education, Arts Academy and Horizons. She is also currently teaching horticulture and art classes for Deer Creek Christian Academy and the St. Paul Lutheran School After-School Art Program throughout the school year. Her mural and custom painting business Imaginteriors, provides opportunities for commissioned work. Kelly creates inspired artwork in a variety of artistic media, preferring pencil illustration, painting, pastel, print-making, book-making, sculpture and fashion design. She shares her daily yoga practice with others, and her many passions include flying, journaling, gardening and other outdoor activities. She has a supportive husband and is mother of two teens.Specialties: The purpose of the Open Window Studio is to support local artists by offering instructional classes for youth and adults, by providing a workspace for artists to further develop their skills, and in providing a unique setting for area artists and community members to connect and learn from one another. The Studio offers quality learning opportunities and experiences, guided by an experienced Teaching Artist.