Meet Our Art Instructors Series—Today’s Profile: Kirsten Sanford
Kirsten is in a unique position [actually two positions]—not only is she one of our top artists, she is also the Pinot’s Palette Princeton Studio Assistant. In that second role, she functions as studio owner Kathleen's right hand "man"--ensuring the studio runs smoothly while Kathleen is out marketing or attending community events.
Kirsten has lived her entire life just across the river in Yardley, PA. Growing up, her parents were always working on the house they were building and so she got early experience hanging artistic creations on the wall by helping her dad install the new sheetrock. Undoubtedly, that early exposure to hard work played a role in the development of one of her current strengths—sticking to a task until it is completed.
You will often find Kirsten chatting with people and it is clear that she is motivated by a genuine caring for what others do and feel. This is probably why her advice to her fellow studio artists is, “Don’t just focus on the painting—it’s the social and art coming together that will be most rewarding.”
Kirsten brings great customer service to her work. As she puts it, “I love being able to share my love for painting with others and getting the customers to have a great and enjoyable experience here at Pinot’s Palette.” She goes on to explain, “It is my top priority to get customers laughing, smiling, and of course loving their painting by the end of class.” And that she certainly does—as demonstrated in these typical responses from her customers: “Loved the class! Will be returning again! Kirsten was great!! [Aleesha Chisholm]; “Kirsten and her assistant were fantastic! So much fun for my first paint night” [Karli Bryant]; “I had a blast--Kirsten was personable, patient, encouraging and helpful!” [Sharon M.W. Joachim].
When she isn’t teaching at the studio, Kirsten likes active things like skiing or running. On the other hand, she does round out her activities with a much more sedate hobby—knitting. Not only does she also play tennis but, when she’s not at the studio, she coaches tennis at her alma mater, Rosemont College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Art Education.
Ask Kirsten about her experience with Pinot’s Palette Princeton and she will tell you, “It’s been a fun 10 months that has gone quickly and I’m excited to see what’s ahead.”