FOUNDER/ Executive Director

Nanci is a multi-disciplinary artist with over 20 years of experience working with institutions like the Montclair Art Museum, the Montclair Institute of Lifelong Learners (MILL), ICAP Arts, Studio Montclair, as well as collaborations with the Montclair Public Library and local public schools. She founded Keep Creating Art Wellness Center in Montclair because she believes in creating a space where inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—a space where people can explore, learn, make mistakes, and have fun without intimidation.

As a teaching artist, Nanci is passionate about nurturing the artist within each of us, inviting people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to express themselves. In her personal art practice, she works with a variety of styles and techniques, using her colorful, multimedia creations to comment on issues like climate change, politics, injustice, and personal growth. Exhibiting nationally in galleries and museums, Nanci continues to use her artistic voice to unite communities and inspire creativity.

Director

Dr. Raul Barcelona, Ph.D., is an award-winning filmmaker, artist, photographer and educator whose work has been exhibited in galleries and film festivals around the world, including the Sundance and Berlin International Film Festivals, and shown on HBO, PBS and the Discovery Channel, among others. Previously a professor of Digital Arts at the Art Institute of Houston, the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, the University of Cincinnati, Marist College and Union County College, Raul has taught a wide variety of college courses in the areas of digital drawing, graphic design, filmmaking, TV and video production, documentary, special effects, animation, communication and visual literacy. Raul continues to produce and develop film and fine arts projects out of his studio and currently teaches filmmaking, photography, animation, graphic design, drawing and painting to neurotypical and neurodivergent students of all ages through individual and group therapeutic enrichment programs.

Executive Treasurer

Accomplished marketing executive known for superior communications, leadership and interpersonal skills.  Strong understanding of international companies with practical experience in cultural differences and practices. Over forty years of experience with IBM spanning technical sales, marketing communications and executive leadership.  Twenty years of management responsibility including direct, virtual and global teams.  Strong background and knowledge in information technology.  Marketing expertise includes all areas of marketing management and communications.  Vast experience working with international clients, external agencies, business partners and suppliers. 

Executive Secretary

Over 35 years in the New York City Public Education system, Lisa began her career as a special education teacher in a public elementary school. She became a Reading Specialist and reading teacher and moved onto middle school helping students who were reading below grade level. She was recruited by the Superintendent to join the district office to work with other reading teachers in the district to assist in developing reading programs to help the students within their schools. As an assistant principal, she worked closely with the staff to develop curriculum and policies to move the school to greater success. Lisa’s work was recognized and she was selected to write a proposal to develop a new public school. She became the founding principal of Linden Tree, PS 567, where she, along with her team, created a Pre-k through 5th grade school that was touted in the fourth edition of New York City’s Best Public Pre-K & Elementary Schools - A Parent’s Guide written by Clara Hemphill and Lydie Raschka.