Our Team

Meet the New Owner & Director

Welcome to a new chapter of the studio! As the new owner, Sophia Beck is thrilled to carry forward a rich legacy of creativity and community. Having been mentored by Gretchen Weidner, the studio's founder, Sophia is dedicated to honoring the studio's roots while expanding its horizons to inspire artists of all ages.

Sophia’s unique worldview was shaped early on; she grew up amidst the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, and spent time living overseas in Bangladesh and Panama as a child. She proudly holds deep roots right here in the Hamburg community. Before taking the helm at the studio, Sophia’s path led her to New York City, where she spent years working as both an art and English teacher.

Her academic foundation is rooted in a dual degree in Fine Art and Peace & Justice Studies—a combination that fundamentally shapes how she views the creative process. All of her diverse global and local experiences deeply influence the vibrant, multicultural art she creates, and they inspire the inclusive, expressive, and curious culture she strives to bring into the studio's classrooms.

As an educator, Sophia believes that art is a powerful tool for self-discovery and connection. Her teaching philosophy focuses on fostering a supportive environment where every student feels confident exploring their unique voice, developing new skills, and discovering the joy of creating. Whether you are picking up a paintbrush for the first time or refining a lifelong practice, Sophia looks forward to creating with you!

 

Caroline Dubill is an accomplished ceramics artists who finds that creating helps her "self-soothe, find my voice, and represent a feeling or idea I have that otherwise cannot be put into words. Being an art teacher is fulfilling as I am able to pass on my knowledge and enthusiasm to my students, and thus help them learn and grow."

 

Our Approach

We offer a flexible, year-round program designed to accommodate the busy schedules of all families. Our Open Studio model allows students to attend sporadically using our credit-based system or regularly using our unlimited subscription. Students can attend up to three classes per week.

Enrollment Options and Commitment

We offer two straightforward pathways for students to join our Open Studio Classes:

Open Studio Schedule

We offer eight 90-minute sessions across four days each week. Please note the specific time slots available:

• Tuesdays: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM and 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Ages 10+)

• Wednesdays: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

• Thursdays: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM and 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Ages 12+)

• Fridays: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

• Saturdays: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

The Leveled Learning Program: Building a Creative Career

Our educational philosophy within the Kids Open Studio is centered on self-paced, individualized instruction. Upon enrollment, each student receives a benchmark checklist. Mini artists are empowered to choose their own projects, and our instructors teach skills specifically tailored to their current ability level and desired pace.

Successful completion of benchmark checks leads to tangible, professional rewards, creating a clear pathway for creatives to earn money:

• Level 1: Official Program Welcome — Access to essential studio resources and initial entry into the program.

• Level 2: Customized Hamburg Art Studio & Gallery Apron — A personal uniform signifying commitment.

• Level 3: Professional Portfolio Case — A tool for organizing and presenting their growing body of work.

• Level 4: Professional Paintbrush Set — High-quality, personal supplies to elevate technique and skill mastery.

• Beyond Level 4: Solo Studio Show — The ultimate achievement: a dedicated opportunity to exhibit and sell their work at the Studio.

We are dedicated to supporting your student's artistic journey from their very first visit to achieving professional milestones within the Studio.