Team Members
Amanda Dodson
Studio Manager & Youth Director
Amanda is a painter, writer, and instructor with a mental health therapy background. Starting her career at 13, she has taught art to children and led art therapy for neurodivergent youth. Amanda is passionate about helping students explore their creativity at Pikes Peak Artist Collective.
Erin Gillespie
Adult Painting & Drawing Instructor
Erin is a painter, illustrator, and muralist based in Colorado Springs. With years of teaching at Bemis School of Art and other local centers, she’s passionate about sharing her love for art. A professional artist with two fine arts degrees, Erin believes art unites and heals. She’s excited to inspire students at Pikes Peak Artist Collective.
Greg Poole
Ceramics Instructor
Greg, with 25+ years in the arts and crafts industry, is an experienced ceramics instructor. He’s managed studios like Taos Mesa Pottery and has expertise in mid-range oxidation, low-temp reduction firings, and e-commerce sales. Greg inspires students at Pikes Peak Artist Collective to grow their skills and artistic vision.
Rhonda Conn-Parent
Youth Art Instructor
Rhonda created the Studio Graduate class after years of teaching children, recognizing their need for structure and creative freedom. "The Grad Class" is an independent art studio where students create based on their vision, with monthly lessons to enhance skills. Limited to 12 students, it fosters collaboration and growth for ages 10-18.
Brooke Jenkinson
Ceramics Instructor
Brooke, a ceramic artist and educator, moved to Colorado Springs after earning a BA in Art Education from Montclair State University. With eight years of teaching experience, she inspires students of all ages. An active member of the Pikes Peak Artist Collective, Brooke’s work is influenced by nature’s beauty.
Liz Covell
Ceramics Instructor
Liz, a former Occupational Therapist, discovered her passion for pottery at Pikes Peak Artist Collective in 2021. Now a ceramics manager and instructor, she runs her own pottery business. Specializing in both wheel throwing and handbuilding, Liz fosters a supportive, inclusive space for students of all levels to grow and create.
Sara Mihalko
Ceramics Manager & Instructor
Sara is a ceramic artist with 10+ years of experience, blending her love for people and cultures with clay. After studying Anthropology, she pursued ceramics full-time in 2022 and sells pottery locally and online. Her classes focus on confidence, creativity, and skill development in a welcoming, process-focused environment.
Al Tanner
Ceramics Instructor
Al is a multimedia artist and pottery business owner, teaching ceramics at Pikes Peak Artist Collective. Specializing in wheel throwing, she fosters an inclusive, supportive classroom for all skill levels. Al encourages creativity, connection, and the therapeutic process of clay, whether making functional pieces or sculptures.
Lauren Stern
Studio Owner
Lauren became the owner of Pikes Peak Artist Collective in 2024, continuing its 20+ year commitment to Colorado Springs. Originally from Houston, she holds degrees in Computer Science, Finance, and Economics from Baylor. After working as a tech consultant, Lauren followed her passion for creativity and community.