Hello! and thank you for your interest in ARTMAZING classes. My name is Doris Zapata and I am certified to teach art from early childhood to high school. I obtained my bachelor's degree from the University of Houston in Graphic Communications (Graphic Design). After working in design firms, Art museums, and as a freelancer designer, I decided to stay home with my children and be more involved in their education. I came to find out that there was a shortage of substitute teachers at their school, which led me to become one to help out. I liked it so much that I decided to get certified and teach full time!

Why art? I've always loved art. There were 2 art teachers that impacted my life. One was my 6th grade art teacher who pushed me into stepping out of my comfort zone (especially since I was bilingual and there was a small language barrier) and she introduced me to many mediums that I had no idea existed. Mrs. Howard chose me as artist of the year and that trophy still sits on my desk. The second art teacher that made a great impact in my life was my 11th and 12th grade art teacher. I was able to take Advanced Placement art and Ms. Kennefic introduced me to what she called "computer arts", which was Graphic Design.

I had the privilege to teach art to kinder through 5th graders for 5 years. It is there where I discovered that there is a great need for after school art programs for those students that enjoy making art and need an outlet to continue their education in the arts. This is how ARTMAZING classes was birthed! I love seeing the reactions of children when they learn a new technique and work with a new medium. I love witnessing their growth as an artist and the confidence that they gain as such a young age. There is so much potential in those little minds that I just want to be a tool that God uses for them to see the ARTMAZING things that they are capable of doing if they get the right support, guidance, and education.