Kids Art Studio: A Journey of Inspiration and Community Impact Founded in 2010 by Shanna Hamilton, Kids Art Studio began as a modest initiative to teach art to children in her home. The enthusiasm and growth she observed in her students inspired her to expand her teaching efforts after relocating to Victoria in 2012. Driven by a desire to share her passion for art, Shanna partnered with the local school district to develop after-school art programs across four school locations, as well as community centers and exploratory programs for middle school students. In addition to her educational pursuits, Shanna's dedication to community service led her to collaborate with BC Children’s Hospital, where students participated in the "Kids Helping Kids" initiative, creating uplifting artwork for young patients to instill hope and encouragement. Throughout her career, Shanna has been committed to supporting local communities and organizations by generously contributing her time, resources, and artistic expertise. Her involvement has included painting theatrical backdrops for local productions and directing exhibitions that showcase her students' work.

In 2010, she began collaborating with organizations focused on at-risk youth, low-income families, and Indigenous communities to implement creative art programs aimed at personal development and social adaptability. She played a key role in developing the art curriculum, mentoring students, writing grants, facilitating communications among organizations, parents, and youth, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for teaching. Recognizing her calling to promote creativity within her community, Shanna focused her efforts on exposing individuals to the enriching world of the arts. She successfully launched an after-school art program within School District 62, fostering a vibrant artistic community that inspired many. Over the course of five years, she witnessed thousands of students and individuals of various ages engage in the arts through her programs and volunteer work.

Shanna has since obtained a diploma in Graphic Design, encompassing art history, fine arts, life drawing, sculpture, painting, 3D design, perspective drawing, computer graphics, photography, innovative design, and advertising. Throughout her artistic journey, she has collaborated with recreational and community centers, independent living organizations, school districts, and grant organizations such as ARTSTARTS, to provide inspiring art programs for youth and individuals interested in the arts. Her leadership has extended to directing community art programs and organizing art shows and galleries.

In addition to her teaching and directing roles, Shanna has actively contributed to art councils and community art events and projects, both as an artist and a director. Her success as a muralist is notable, with projects including murals in daycares, community centers, and school mascots, as well as private residences and businesses. Kids Art Studio flourished by offering a variety of art camps that included painting, drawing, sculpture, and multimedia activities. One of her notable accomplishments involved collaborating with an entire school to create a mural, wherein each grade contributed a unique painting that was integrated into the final artwork installed on the school grounds. Shanna’s journey with Kids Art Studio from 2010 to 2017 was both successful and fulfilling.

Today, Shanna is embarking on new ventures while retaining a profound love for teaching. Her ambition, passion, and commitment to seeing projects through continue to drive her. With her experience as both an artist and director, along with the insight gained from her diverse roles, Shanna believes that each skill and experience contributes to one’s journey, guiding them toward their destined path.