About Us
Rio Rancho Art on the Mesa is our newest program. Launching September 2023 with our Mini Monet classes. The primary focus will be on the process of art, meaning the end product is not the primary focus. The focus will be on the experience, not the outcome. This program will celebrate the discoveries each child makes while creating their unique artwork. The children will learn and work on several skills, from learning about famous artists, colors, and color blending to fine motor skills, cognitive and creative thinking, and more. Remember, art is for everyone.
Introducing Mini Monet
For children ages 3 to 5 years old, parent/guardian attendance is required.
Basic Information
Classes are Tuesdays, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, from September to December.
The classes are 12 sessions, and there are no classes on these dates:
• October 10, 2023
• October 13, 2023
• November 17, 2023
• November 21, 2023
For children ages 3 to 5 years old, parent/guardian attendance is required.
The classes are 12 sessions, and there are no classes on these dates:
• October 10, 2023
• October 13, 2023
• November 17, 2023
• November 21, 2023
For children ages 3 to 5 years old, parent/guardian attendance is required.
Registration Fees
Early Bird Special: $160
Pay in full between August 1 and 14, 2023.
Registration: $175
Pay in full between August 15, 2023, and September 9, 2023.
(Payment Plan is available.)
Pay in full between August 1 and 14, 2023.
Registration: $175
Pay in full between August 15, 2023, and September 9, 2023.
(Payment Plan is available.)
Meet the Artistic Director |
Melissa Leonard is a talented artist who has been involved in children’s programming and advocacy for many years. Melissa has been an official photographer for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and is a regular contributor to the #reliefconspiracy, an international Art-Sharing group. Melissa has used her deeply personal art to support other local artists through Timber Studio’s Fundraiser for ABC Mutual Aid, as well as commissioned several pieces locally. She has also participated in the Annual People’s Show. Her children’s advocacy work includes grassroots support for Title I schools and Special Education.
Melissa received her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Psychology from UNM in 2017, as a non-traditional student raising a family. Her work often “touches on difficult issues, but she approaches with a nuanced delicacy” (Abbey Hepner, UNM and UCCS Art Professor,2016). She has worked with many mediums and her print work has been in nationwide shows. Melissa also has a degree in Early Childhood Development, making her art classes educational as well as fun and engaging.
Melissa’s unique combination of life experience and education makes her an asset to the newly fledging art program. Her passion to bring the arts to children who may not otherwise have access has been proven through her work in the schools. Melissa has long advocated for access in the schools as well as ensuring that Special Education and Exceptional students are treated equally.
Melissa received her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Psychology from UNM in 2017, as a non-traditional student raising a family. Her work often “touches on difficult issues, but she approaches with a nuanced delicacy” (Abbey Hepner, UNM and UCCS Art Professor,2016). She has worked with many mediums and her print work has been in nationwide shows. Melissa also has a degree in Early Childhood Development, making her art classes educational as well as fun and engaging.
Melissa’s unique combination of life experience and education makes her an asset to the newly fledging art program. Her passion to bring the arts to children who may not otherwise have access has been proven through her work in the schools. Melissa has long advocated for access in the schools as well as ensuring that Special Education and Exceptional students are treated equally.
