Meet Crafternoon ATX!
At Crafternoon ATX, our mission is to inspire children to explore their creativity, connect with nature, and grow into confident, compassionate individuals. Through hands-on art experiences, we nurture emotional expression, build essential life skills, and foster a sense of belonging and community—all in a playful, supportive, and imaginative environment.
Our Story
Crafternoon ATX began in 2017 as a series of pop-up workshops in public spaces led by teaching artist Camille Lema. These small workshops quickly blossomed into vibrant events, school programs, and celebrations, offering a haven where creativity could thrive.
During the pandemic, Camille turned Crafternoon ATX into a full-time endeavor, adapting to the challenges of childcare scarcity and social distancing. With trial, error, and unwavering community support, we grew into a dedicated workspace, a small but mighty team, and a cherished hub for families.
Today, we are proud to offer art experiences that go beyond the ordinary—where children not only create but also connect with nature and the world around them.
Our Passion
We believe creativity is the foundation for confidence, connection, and joy. From lively workshops to imaginative projects, we’re passionate about creating spaces where young artists can explore, play, and grow.
Our studio supports artists and educators of color, Indigenous instructors and herbalists, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, inviting them to lead workshops and camps. These experiences immerse students in stories, culture, and the outdoors, creating meaningful connections and a sense of belonging.
We keep our groups intentionally small so our instructors can build personal relationships with every child and their family, offering the best guidance and care we can give.
What started as a spark of inspiration has evolved into our dedicated mission: to empower creativity, nurture community, and ensure every child’s imagination flourishes.
Meet The Instructors
-
Ren Quintero
She/They
Ren is a local, commission-based artist, teacher, agent of hospitality and fantasy enthusiast! She specializes in teaching DnD to youth, group games, team building, classroom management, character creation and grounding techniques. Born in Waco, but calls Austin home after 10 years of residency and inspiration from her community. “I am happy to pass the lessons life has taught me, but enthralled by what new things can be absorbed!". -
Camille Lema
She/Her
Camille is an indigenous folk artist who loves working with many colors on her palette. As a teacher for over 11 years, Camille specializes in classroom management, social and emotional learning, outdoor learning, grounding exercises, infant care and process art. Camille enjoys being out in nature, supporting and organizing community events and markets, dancing, listening to music, shopping second-hand and creating meaningful artwork for people. -
Carla Perez
She/Her
Proudly raised in the vibrant heart of the Dominican Republic, Carla blends her passion for art with her love for teaching, guiding children through creativity and expression. Spanish is her first language and she is a Fine arts graduate. Carla is enthusiastic about inspiring the next generation through diverse artistic expressions.
-
Monica Barrera
She/They
Originally from the coastal plains of South Texas, with a strong connection to Mexican and Otomi roots (si hablo español!). Currently in a graduate counseling program, but a professional background is in education since 2011. Monica has worked in a wide range of settings with a wide range of learners as a science teacher, camp counselor in Yosemite, environmental educator in North Carolina, and lots of different settings in between. When it comes to art, they focus on nature themes, textiles, photography/film, and mixed media collage/zines. Monica’s dog, the moon, and the senses are her biggest muses. She feels most connected to her purpose when she is able to express herself creatively and when working with kids! They love to teach as well as learn. Monica looks forward to nurturing curiosity and learning alongside everyone at Crafternoon ATX! -
Sarah Doan
She/Her
Sarah Doan is a Vietnamese-American author, illustrator of children's books. Growing up, she was always creating with various mediums and her experiments would turn the mad-scientist type. Her art is inspired by awkward encounters, childhood memories, food, and the celebration of cultures. Beyond illustration, Sarah also has a passion for fostering community through art. She hosts creative workshops in Austin where people can connect and create.
-
Felipe Quiroga
He/Him
Born and raised in Bogota, Colombia. Felipe is an ink illustrator and a paraeducator for the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. He is committed to fostering safe spaces where children of all backgrounds can come, create, and express themselves freely. Felipe is passionate about strengthening communities through arts and culture, and looks forward to continuing to nurture the love for arts here at Crafternoon ATX.