Our Team

At Studio Andreas, our team is built from artists of all backgrounds and mediums. As a team, we are all eager to build community by passing down knowledge through art-making.

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Mark Andreas

Founder/ Head 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 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. 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.

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Nerea Nicholsons

Ceramic Studio Manager/Instructor

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Chelsea Danburg

Textiles Studio Manager/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.

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Emily “Em” Lee

Administrator (they/them)

Emily “Em” Lee is originally from New York City but recently relocated to Stamford, Connecticut. They 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 themself 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.

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Herbert Thomas

Woodworking Assistant Teacher

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 himself through the vast material; and building community around the medium.

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Owen Hughes

Ceramics Instructor

Owen is from Westchester, NY and has been working with clay as long as he can remember. Having artistic parents, one being a potter, he learned pottery wheel skills very early on. He has taught pottery to kids and adults of all ages. Owen graduated from SUNY Purchase in 2025 with a Bachelor of Music Degree.

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Maria Spiess

Ceramic 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.

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Mika Andreas

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When she is not napping in the sun or guarding her younger sister, Amelia; Mika spends most of her days at Studio Andreas. She is very friendly and loves to wander into the studios to say hi to all of our students!