Meet The staff

Instructors

We love getting to know you in class, so now it's time for us to properly introduce ourselves! Here is a quick look at the talented teachers that make The Palette such a fun place learn a new skill.

Instructor

Jamie Pietrack

Jamie holds a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts, with an emphasis in Education from Western State College. She was an art teacher for eight years before deciding to leave education to become a stay-at-home mom for her three girls. "Working at The Palette has allowed me to tap back into a part of me that has been put aside for many years. I love helping and watching our patrons find their inner artist!"

bartender

Michelle Pewters

Michelle began in reception and bartending in the fall of 2021. "It's a great place to work because this job allows me to be creative and meet so many friendly people. I love watching people of all skill levels push themselves outside of their comfort zone and embrace their artistic side!"

Instructor

Jess Hren

Jess graduated from CMU with a degree in K-12 Art Education. She worked as a middle school art teacher before deciding her calling, for the time being, was to stay home and raise her three precious boys. She spends her days homeschooling and trying to keep up with her three busy boys. "I'm so grateful to be at The Palette, where I am still a part of a learning environment, and surrounded by people who are drawn in by the joy of painting!"

Owner

Claire Meil

Claire has a degree in Graphic Design from Colorado Mesa University and opened The Palette in 2012. "It was my dream to create a place where friends can get together for a creative - and wine filled - night out! Ten years later we are working hard to constantly bring you new projects. It's such a joy to offer a unique outlet for people of all skill levels to step outside of their comfort zone and Uncork Your Inner Artist!"

Instructor

Mackenzy Miller

Mackenzy worked as in instructor from 2015-2020 and is back on stage again! She is a mother to four wonderful kids and enjoys teaching classes as a creative outlet.

Instructor

Vandy Moralez

Vandy began at The Palette early 2018 as a bartender and is now an instructor. "I love working at The Palette because it's a great escape for people who want to test out their artistic side. My favorite thing is helping people create something special that they can hang in their home forever!"