Meet the Team
At Wayfinder Art Studio, our educators are passionate artists, experienced teachers, and inspiring guides.
Each brings a unique creative voice and a deep commitment to nurturing every student’s artistic journey. From curious beginners to emerging young makers. With backgrounds in fine art, design, and education, our team is here to help students discover their own creative North Star in a supportive, joyful environment.
A Fellowship of Artists and Educators, Lighting the Path to Your Creative North Star
Meet the Founder
Tara Barnett
Creativity has always been my compass, quietly guiding me through change, growth, and connection. From childhood sketches to formal training, it has been the steady thread pulling me forward. This path led me to pursue a BFA in Illustration at Parsons School of Design and, shortly thereafter, a career in New York City’s creative industry. Even amid the city’s constant hum, I felt a quiet pull toward art education-drawn by its power to heal, reveal, and connect. I went on to earn a Master’s in Art Education, and over the past decade, I’ve taught in both public and private settings, led art programs, and stepped into leadership roles that have shaped my journey. Along the way, I had the privilege of working closely with the founders of a beloved teaching studio in Fair Haven, NJ, where I gained hands-on teaching experience nurturing artists of all ages. I later served as the studio’s director, guiding its programs, curriculum, and teaching team—an experience that deepened my commitment to fostering creative growth, grounding students in fine art foundations, and nurturing connection within the community.
Wayfinder Art Studio is the culmination of this journey—a place where art is not only taught, but truly lived. I’m proud to share this space and to continue the work that has always inspired me: helping others find their way through art.
Meet our Instructors
Caroline Bullock
I graduated from Monmouth University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2011. After working as the art instructor at the Boys and Girls Club, I realized teaching art was my passion. I went back to Monmouth University and received my Masters in Teaching Art in 2013. I’ve taught art for grades Pre-K through 12! This is my tenth year teaching art at David C. Abbott Early Learning Center in Marlboro, NJ. My goal for my students is to spark an excitement for art! When I am not teaching art, I love to spend time at the beach with my family!
Follow Caroline + her work here: Art With Mrs. Bullock
Matt Miranda
For over a decade, I’ve worn many creative hats: art teacher, artist, dad, and proud holder of a doctorate in educational leadership, all rooted in one belief—creativity heals. I believe every child deserves semi structured time to make, play, and discover the joy in their unique process, and I use humor and laughter as essential tools for building relationships and opening creative doors. Whether I’m guiding students through their first brushstrokes or showcasing my own work, I’m endlessly inspired by the magic that happens when people are given space to explore their own creative rhythms. At home, my two brilliant muses—my daughters, ages 8 and 3, remind me daily that art, like life, is messy, colorful, and meant to be shared.
Colleen Purdy
Colleen Purdy has been teaching Art for 14 years! She graduated from TCNJ with a degree in Art Education in 2011. During the school year you can find her at Dugan Elementary in Marlboro teaching grades K-5. Inspired daily by her students, she loves exploring materials and techniques to create “art magic” and encourage you to have fun along the way. In the studio, Ms Colleen will help guide you through the creative process while encouraging you to listen to your individual creative voice. Outside the studio, you will find her enjoying nature’s beauty and enjoying life’s little moments with her husband and two young daughters.
Follow Colleen + her work here: Art at Dugan with Mrs. Purdy
Kelly Conley
Kelly Conley is an artist and art educator, specializing in creating custom pet portraiture and illuminating seascapes of locations in Monmouth County. Kelly’s innate connection with animals, fascination with nature, and keen sense of observation shape her perception and evolving curiosity. As an art teacher for students on the autism spectrum, Kelly enjoys engaging each individual with the opportunity to create, express, and explore through the art making process. Kelly’s work has been exhibited in the Allied Artists of America 107th and 108th Juried Show, Animal Attractions Exhibit at Salmagundi, NYC, The Brooklyn Museum of Art, Monmouth Museum of Art, The Art Alliance of Monmouth County, The Guild of Creative Art, Canvas Art Studio, The Canterbury Art Show, as well as Fairfield, Norwalk, and New Haven, Connecticut.
Follow Kelly + her work here: Kelly Conley Art
Toni Ferrone
Hello Artists! My name is Toni Ferrone. I am so excited to be a part of the Wayfinder Art Studio. I
have been an art teacher in an elementary school for over 10 years. I love teaching art to
elementary students of all different ages and abilities. I particularly enjoy pastels, painting, and
clay sculpture. I love to see young artists explore, grow, and create art. My goal is to help make
young artists happy and confident. I hope to inspire and encourage and to help build a love for
the artistic processes.
Faine Raicer
Faine Raicer is a local artist, mother, wife and educator. Based in Belmar, NJ, she runs Faine Pottery, a-one-woman passion project dedicated to handmade ceramics. With a BFA in ceramics, Faine creates each piece by hand in her cozy home studio. She especially enjoys working with children and sharing her love of clay through hands on learning and creativity.
Follow Faine + her work here: Faine Pottery
