Neo Art School
4649 Sunnyside Avenue N., Room 121
Seattle, WA 98103
206-632-2530
neoartschool@comcast.net
The Neo Art School was established in 1982 by Linda Demirel Barnes to encourage students to use art as a means of self-discovery, problem solving and enjoyment while seeking the intrinsic value of the art process and product.
Our award winning school artwork has been featured on television, in movies and in print. Our curriculum includes technique development and creative exploration combined with environmental awareness -- to recycle, reuse, rethink and recreate with more than just traditional art materials. Maintaining high quality artwork in hand with student comfort and safety has always been paramount to our success! Thank you for your support!
About Linda Demirel Barnes
Linda Demirel Barnes is the head teacher and the reason that former students choose to return to classes at Neo Art School. She provides a down-to-earth, nurturing environment in which students can relax and find their creative muse.
Linda was born in England, where her family's humble economic status inspired creative resourcefulness. She decided to become an art teacher when she was 7 years old due to her love of learning and affinity for the school environment.
Linda studied art at the University of Wisconsin - Madison, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and received her Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from the University of Washington in 1981. She is the mother of three grown children and a grandmother of two.
Linda's art philosophy and teaching style have been featured in many local venues including Pacific Magazine and television shows. She has led participatory art demonstrations at Folklife, Bumbershoot and other festivals. She has also provided children's artwork for movies.
About Russ Barnes
Joining Linda in the classroom is her husband, Russ Barnes, who brings creative and technical expertise that uniquely compliment Linda's teaching style. Russ' background as a flight instructor adds a mechanical skill set and perspective that help students appreciate paying attention to detail. His can-do attitude inspires children to turn their imaginations into wonderful art projects. Russ enjoys metal fire arts as a hobby.
Together, Linda and Russ combine their positive energy and knowledge to create a wholesome environment that encourages the young artist to tap into their own special creativity. Their projects give attention to the principles and elements of design, while lesson plans explore many different, non-toxic art media.
Students thrive under their peaceful and resourceful approach to art education in our technologically-oriented society. Everyone at Neo Art owes a debt of thanks to all the parents, volunteers and everyone who has contributed to make Neo Art an exceptional school that consistantly provides us all with inspiring and creative artwork.
About Other Class Helpers
During summer and school break camps, Linda is assisted by college-age helpers drawn from the ranks of former students. Linda's adult children often assist her in the classroom, having grown up at Neo Art. They are now pursuing teaching degrees and helping to plan and develop Neo Art's Overnight Summer Camp and Family Retreat.
About The Classroom Environment
Neo Art School occupies several rooms on the ground floor of Historic Seattle's Good Shepherd Center. The classrooms have large work tables and non-toxic art materials galore for many types of projects. Out the back door is access to Meridian Park, with a large grassy area, a playground, fruit trees, a picturesque gazebo, a P-Patch community garden and the Tilth Demonstration Garden.
