Finding the right location…The History of Cobble Creek Studios Art Academy
Cobble Creek Studios, LLC opened its doors in Snellville, Georgia, in November of 2010 as a gallery, artists studios, and art school. Deborah Ankrom Kepes moved her home-based art school to this location because it has grown steadily since 2002. In doing so, this new location created space to add a gallery. She invited other artists to share in this excellent opportunity. John R. Duke, BFA Atlanta College of Art, was the first artist to join her, offering watercolor classes and his paintings to exhibit in the gallery. As time passed, Carla Crawmer joined her, adding children’s classes. Carla was the perfect choice with her BFA in fine art and a degree in children’s education. Eventually, her daughter, Elise Longnecker, joined her as an assistant but eventually became a fine instructor for the children. Next, Lora Hill, Past President of the Portrait Society of Atlanta, came on board as the instructor of the 5 - 7-year-old students. Lora became an excellent addition as the students greeted her with loving arms each and every time they attended her class.
The pandemic began in March 2020, and everything changed very quickly. We temporarily closed the school and immediately began teaching art virtually, trying to hold on to this marvelous art school we had created. However, as time went on, decisions had to be made, and one by one, Cobble Creek Studios Art Academy instructors left the school and chose a different personal and career path. But the story didn’t end there; CCSAA began a new generation of instructors who looked at the curriculum fresh.
First to come on board was Tracey Mitchell, BA in Animation from Georgia Southern University; she studied with Mrs. Kepes for three years before college. Tracey is a perfect fit for CCSAA; once an assistant, she now instructs the students ages 8 - 11. She has expanded the curriculum by offering Special Needs classes. She is certified with the Bobby Dodd Institute to teach students with disabilities. Her caring and loving nature is Tracey’s prime asset.
Joining us is Gabriella Ferrans, who is studying for her BFA at Georgia State University and is proficient in drawing. She has continued her education in classical drawing and painting with Mrs. Kepes. She was excited about introducing the 5 - 7-year-old students to their first experience in understanding acceptable art principles. Miss Gabriella brings a fresh new outlook on education to the little ones. Check with us soon about all the opportunities that will begin a new decade of fun!