Monahan Studio — Attraction in Maltby

Our (now college-age) daughter received private art lessons from Nicole at Monahan Studio for many years, and also attended Nicole’s summer art camps when she was younger. Nicole is an incredible artist and teacher, and her passion for exposing children to art through nature, exploration and activity is abundantly evident to anyone who has had the good fortune to watch her in action. Nicole’s age-appropriate summer art camps are very reasonably priced, and filled with investigation, discovery and enchantment; children are encouraged to try new things without fear of failure or being judged. During these camps, kids learn to create art work using different techniques and materials, and develop social skills and confidence as they explore, collaborate and imagine - All in the beautiful, natural NW forest backdrop that is Nicole’s property. Our daughter often referred to Nicole’s as her “safe place,” where she was free to create her own visions in a calming, peaceful atmosphere with Nicole’s gentle guidance, support and encouragement, and she credits her time spent with Nicole for her creativity and inspiration. I highly recommend Monahan Studio to anyone interested in sending their child(ren) to a fun and engaging summer camp, or for anyone else at any age who desires to enhance and foster their creativity in a relaxing...

Nicole and I share a common love of our children, hiking, our pets, and art. One of my kids attended Nicole's Summer camp for a few years and really enjoyed learning art in such a beautiful setting. Also, I purchased two of her amazing pieces (a lion’s head and a dragon with a boy in a cape) which I framed for the wall. I smile when I look at them. The dragon combines the imagination from a child's perspective and the talent of an experienced and creative artist. The lion is fierce and exemplifies Nicole’s intricate ability to sketch in the finest detail. I also bought Nicole's Valentine themed greeting cards as a gift for my family which are adorable and could be smaller framed pieces. Her Christmas themed cards are so creative, as well! I am in awe of Nicole's talent. I enjoy seeing her artwork outdoors on a mural along a bike path and on a pole at a park. She chairs a teen art program and she works with the elderly at a retirement home teaching and encouraging their art. She is always striving to learn and do more both in the community and for...

Nicole continues to amaze me with her creative, beautiful art! This piece is part of her Bonsai Collection entitled “Beauty With Age.” It’s absolutely gorgeous — unique and fascinating.

Nicole has helped me out several other times with various types of projects — a children’s book, greeting cards, and marketing materials. Besides being an incredible artist she is a pleasure to work with!

Highly, highly...