Craft
Community
& Ecology

At Studio Andreas, the process matters just as much as the product. Working with your hands slows you down, connects you to the material, and quiets the mind. Whether you're carving wood, shaping clay, or weaving fiber, our studio is a space where you can step away from the noise of the world and focus on something real. We’re here to help you make art—at your own pace and with the support of our community.

In a fast society, making something by hand is a quiet rebellion. That’s the heart of what we do here.

Mark Andreas

Founder & Woodworking Instructor
Studio Andreas was founded in 2022 by artist and educator Mark Andreas. What began as his personal art studio soon grew into a woodworking classroom where students of all ages could explore wood as a medium of art for the first time. His woodworking classes often sell out and include students who have been learning with him for over a decade.

Chelsea Danburg

Textiles Instructor

Chelsea grew up surrounded by creativity—artists, architects, and dancers shaped her early world. After earning her degree in Textile Design from RISD, she spent years designing woven fabrics for the home furnishing industry, traveling internationally to connect with mills and makers. Over time, she returned to the tactile joy of weaving by hand, a practice that grounds her and blends art, craft, and engineering. Today, she brings that same balance and passion to her teaching at Studio Andreas, inspiring others to discover the beauty and rhythm of weaving.

Emily “Em” Lee

Administrative Assistant

Emily “Em” Lee is originally from New York City but recently relocated to Stamford, Connecticut. They recently graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles where they obtained their Bachelor’s degree in American Studies and Studio Art & Art History. Having a background in the arts, Lee considers themselves as multidisciplinary artist with a emphasis in sculpture. They view their art practice as a form of reclamation of culture and space to explore their identity.

Nerea Nicholson

Ceramics Instructor

Nerea is a ceramicist and macramé artist from Guanajuato, Mexico. Barro (clay) reminds her of home and keeps her grounded and connected to the earth. She enjoys sharing this passion with others, continually exploring its possibilities both on the wheel and by hand. Macramé, an ancient technique taught to her by her brother over a decade ago, allows her to slow down and embrace the rhythm of making. Both clay and string hold generous creative power—materials she approaches with deep gratitude.

Mark Nowotarski

Yarn Spinning Instructor

Mark is a fiber artist and member of the Nutmeg Spinning Guild. He enjoys exploring different spinning wheels and the textures they create. His approach to yarn spinning blends curiosity and tradition, inspiring students to connect with the process of transforming fiber into thread by hand.

Maria Spiess

Ceramics Instructor

Maria is a ceramic artist and instructor based in Westchester, New York. She builds her work using coils and pinching techniques, relying on her hands and minimal tools to shape each piece. This simplicity allows her to capture the natural marks of making—fingerprints that record the dialogue between artist and clay. Maria views her work as a reflection of human connection, where every interaction, like a breeze over water, leaves a lasting impression.

Herbert Thomas

Assistant Instructor/Woodshop Technician

Herbert Thomas, a woodworking instructor from Bridgeport, CT. Thomas has spent time refining his craft through hands-on experience. His practice is rooted in curiosity and persistence. Thomas is committed to the life long journey learning through every mistake, discovering myself through the vast material; and building community around the medium.

Justin Wiest

Drawing Instructor

Justin Wiest has been instructing drawing and painting in the area for over twenty years. He studied figurative art at The Schuler School, Circulo Bellas Artes (Madrid), and the New York Academy. Art has provided him a ceaseless sense of excitement and wonder.

Handmade in Stamford

Our studios are thoughtfully equipped with professional tools and materials, creating an environment where students can dive deep into their craft. Classes are designed for a personalized learning experience, offering one-on-one guidance within a supportive group setting. Whether you're just beginning or refining your skills, each session encourages shared discovery, conversation, and connection. Making every project a meaningful part of a larger creative community.

  • Our weekly group classes are the heart of our studio’s rhythm. Students meet regularly in small groups to build skills over time, guided by experienced instructors. These sessions blend one-on-one attention with the energy of a shared learning environment—perfect for anyone looking to grow at a steady pace while connecting with others.

  • Our homeschooling program is tailored to meet the needs of independent learners and families seeking creative, hands-on education. With consistent scheduling and curriculum-aligned content, these classes foster curiosity and craftsmanship, offering young artists the space and support to explore materials and techniques at their own pace.

  • Workshops are immersive, short-format classes designed to spark inspiration and deepen skills. Whether it's a weekend intensive or a one-day session, these offerings are ideal for those who want to try something new, focus on a specific technique, or make time for creativity without committing to a full semester.

Visit us

 

Walking distance from
Glenbrook MTA Station

Location
652 Glenbrook Road
Stamford, CT 06902

Email
stamfordwoodworking@gmail.com

Phone
(203) 521-9183