Ben

Ben grew up in the small town of Paradise, California, where creativity wasn’t just a hobby—it was a way of life. From an early age, he was constantly drawing comic book heroes, medieval castles, futuristic cars, and whatever else he could imagine. Art has always been his language of choice. Ben draws inspiration from a diverse group of artists such as Alphonse Mucha, Frank Frazetta, Audrey Kawasaki, and Eyvind Earle—each influencing his unique blend of detail, storytelling, and imagination. As a teenager, Ben’s talent earned him numerous art competition wins for his highly detailed pencil drawings. He went on to study graphic design in college, but at 22, he made the courageous decision to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force. That chapter shaped his discipline, leadership, and worldview in powerful ways. Twenty-three years later, a chance experience at Painting With A Twist in Lakewood, Colorado reignited his passion for art and set him on a new path. Inspired to build something meaningful, he opened Painting With A Twist in Rocklin—creating a studio powered by talented local artists who not only share his passion, but have a place to grow creatively, refine their craft, and supplement their income doing what they love.

Daire Moss

Born in the PNW and raised by chaotic musicians in nearby El Dorado and Sacramento Counties, Daire developed a broad taste in art and a deep appreciation for everyone’s unique creative expression. Their personal creative practice spans crocheting amigurumi, painting surreal emotion-driven (and occasionally silly) acrylic pieces, sketching the world in pen and graphite, and recently exploring dance and circus arts. Largely self-taught, they approach art with a wabi-sabi mindset that celebrates the imperfect, the handmade, and the beautifully unexpected. Where others see flaws, they see a developing personal style. Painting with a Twist representatives have said that anyone could walk in off the street and feel welcome in Daire’s classes. Their approachability, humor, and nonjudgmental teaching style create an environment where students are encouraged to explore art through curiosity and joy no matter where they are in their artistic journey.

Emerald Greene

From potato printing to a printmaking degree, Emerald has been making her mark as an artist since childhood. Now as a recent California transplant she brings her Midwestern charm to you, making you feel right at home in class whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or diving back into art after a break. Join Emerald for a feel good fun time full of geekery and goofs and leave every class a beautiful painting richer. Need an extra incentive? She even comes with her own Pantone color code, what more could ask for for!

Megan Glover

Megan Glover is a creative force from Auburn, California, whose artistic journey began after stepping away from competitive sports. With a life story as dynamic as her work, she channels her experiences into bold, expressive art that connects with people on a deeper level. Specializing in acrylic painting, Megan isn’t afraid to explore a wide range of mediums, constantly pushing creative boundaries and embracing new forms of expression. Her passion goes beyond creating—she loves sharing her knowledge and inspiring others to discover their own artistic voice. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or have never picked up a brush, Megan creates an energetic, funky, and welcoming space where anyone can learn, experiment, and thrive creatively.

Reily

Reily has been an artist her whole life. As a kid, she painted murals on her bedroom walls, filled countless sketchbooks, and even turned school book reports into works of art. She pursued this love of art and went on to earn a degree in Studio Art and Gender Studies at Willamette University in Oregon. Since then, she has leaned into her passion for art as well as the outdoors, working at a local art gallery, serving as Studio Manager at Painting With a Twist, and volunteering as a California Naturalist. When she is not creating art, you can find Reily at the river or at a local nature preserve- exploring, doing trail maintenance, or teaching kids about local plants and wildlife. Reily is always smiling and ready with a bad joke or two up her sleeve (and maybe a cool rock or two, too).